Diagnosed - Pt. 01 (Reliant Universe)

Hello! This story is a spin off of a character mentioned very briefly in my 'Reliant' series. You do not have to read it first, but it may help introduce the mechanics of the world a little more.

Happy reading!

1- HARRY

It was a chilly September afternoon on the school rugby field. The school team were playing their first match against another nearby rival school. Unfortunately the rival team were currently winning.

Harry's camera shutter snapped as he took dozens of action shots. He smiled to himself as he took a particularly good shot of his friend, Luc, as he turned ball in hand to pass to the team captain Theo who was running up behind him.

Harry glanced across the pitch to where his other friend Jamie sat on the bench with a few other reserve players. He could feel Jamie's bitter disappointment from here, and sighed walking slowly towards him.

He sat down on the bench beside him, eyeing the angry expression on his face.

"You okay?" He asked and Jamie nodded.

"Did you hear what Theo said at the start of the game? About having the 'best players on the pitch'?" He hissed, "he's such an arsehole."

Harry had thought his frustration was at the game, but clearly he wasn't paying much attention to the score, his eyes resolutely fixed on his team captain as he ran across the field.

Harry sighed, "just ignore him Jamie, you just rub each other up the wrong way that's all."

Jamie shook his head, leaning over so his elbows rested on his thighs as he glared across the pitch.

"He's fucking asking for it that's why," Jamie muttered, but Harry felt it was more to himself than to Harry.

Harry didn't know why Jamie, who was usually a very calm and easygoing person, was so easily riled up by Theo. But since they started at the school a few weeks ago, he had begun an obsessive dislike which Theo had returned in full force, escalating quickly into a fierce rivalry.

Luc too had begun sniping at Theo in defence of Jamie, and their other friends Pete and Sam were caught in the middle along with Harry. With all the drama none of them seemed to notice Harry's mounting worry, or that he was quieter than usual. Although he was often the quiet one in their group, recent events had made it hard to speak up at all.

It hadn't been his birthday yet, so his friends perhaps hadn't even thought to consider why he was quiet. Harry had been quite unwell over the summer, and when he went to the doctors expecting them to give him antibiotics or pain relief, he left with a nasal spray and a diagnosis. A Reliant.

It was unusual, the doctor said, to be developing symptoms before turning eighteen, but it could happen. He continued by explaining the rules of his new life.

For now, he would be able to relieve his symptoms medically. But soon he would require close physical contact with those diagnosed as Tueri to be able to live his life normally. It was catastrophic. And yet, life around him ticked on just as it had before.

He hadn't been able to tell his friends yet. They were all so happy. Pete had just celebrated his eighteenth, and along with it a Null diagnosis. He didn't want to bring down the mood.

But his family, they did know. His parents were constantly asking him about his 'plan'. As if he would just magically come up with a solution.

That evening, he sat gazing down at his plate, pushing the carrots around absently as his parents droned on and on. He had long stopped listening, but they barely seemed to notice.

"Harry? What do you think Harry?" His mum asked, reaching for his arm and he started.

"I don't know Mum okay?!" He cried, standing up from the table. His younger brother Max looked up at him wide eyed. He breathed out slowly, not wanting to scare him. "Whatever you guys think, I don't care. I... I'm going out."

"Where are you-"

"I just- need some air," he muttered, walking from the room and grabbing his coat before heading out the door.

He didn't know where he was going, he just knew he needed a break. He looked down at his phone and saw a text from Luc.

"Going to skatepark tonight if keen?"

He smiled and changed direction towards the park.

As he approached, he could see Luc skating alone. Harry didn't particularly like skating, but he liked Luc. He'd had a crush on him for as long as he could remember. Not that he'd ever act on it of course. But any opportunity to spend with him, he did. He was his best friend more than anyone, and he was happy to just stay friends.

"Hey," he said, sitting on the edge of the ramp.

"Hi," Luc grinned, his broad smile bright against his tanned skin, his black curly hair flopping into his eyes. He desperately needed a haircut.

"You okay?" Luc asked, jumping off his board and catching it easily.

"I'm fine," he replied. "Sorry about today's game."

Luc shrugged, "it's no biggy. We'll win other games. Want a go on the board?"

Harry declined, and watched as Luc worked on a new trick. They chatted about school, and their friends as he did. Harry felt a little bit of the tension in his gut loosen as he let his legs swing over the edge of the ramp.

"Jamie fucking hates Theo doesn't he?" Luc said hopping up onto the ramp beside him, and Harry rolled his eyes.

"You egg him on," Harry accused and Luc chuckled.

"I can't help it," he replied, "and to be fair, he is a bit of a dick sometimes. He definitely enjoys winding Jamie up for some reason."

"Well maybe help them cool it next time, it's getting annoying being around Jamie when he's all moody."

"You're one to talk," Luc scoffed and Harry's eyes narrowed.

"What does that mean?"

"If anyone has been moody and quiet since we came back off summer it's you."

Harry looked down, avoiding his gaze.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Luc pressed, and Harry swallowed.

"I- it's... I can't."

"What is it Harry?" Luc asked again, and he looked up at him, his small friendly smile, his wide dark eyes that always made his tummy do backflips.

He sighed, "you... you know how I got sick in the summer? I had to go to the doctor?"

"Yeah?" Luc said with a frown, "you said it was a bug or something?"

"Yeah... a virus," he paused. "The virus."

Luc's face instantly changed. He pulled back alarmed, his eyes wide and full of a mistrust that made Harry's heart break.

"But, you're not eighteen yet?"

"I know, I got it early."

Luc's voice was cold when he asked, "what are you?"

It was as if he didn't see him as human anymore.

"Luc, I'm still me," Harry begged, looking at a face he had known so well, for so long look at him as if he was a stranger.

"What are you?!" Luc yelled, rising to his feet, looking down at him with nothing short of disgust.

"I'm a Reliant," Harry whispered. He cringed from Luc's gaze. This was going worse than he could have possibly imagined. He had expected judgement, questions, but this sort of hate? From his best friend?

Luc shook his head and turned on his heel.

"Wait!" Harry cried, running after him but Luc turned in fury and shoved him away. He staggered back, hurt, tears pricking in his eyes.

"Don't come near me," Luc hissed. "I don't want you infecting me."

"It doesn't work like that," Harry whispered, shaking his head. "Please Luc, don't-"

"Fuck off Harry. I can't believe you of all people. I thought I knew you. I thought you were my friend."

"I am your friend!" He cried, but Luc just shook his head.

"Not anymore."

Luc walked away without backwards glance, leaving Harry stood bewildered and hurt in his wake. He felt the tears fall, but he didn't know if they were from anger or sadness. Misery welled up in his gut, and as it did he felt a headache building in his temples.

"Fuck," he hissed, searching his pockets but knowing the nasal spray he needed was back at home. He didn't want to go home like this, one comment from his parents and he knew he'd snap. But what choice did he have? What choice did he have in anything anymore?

He staggered home, and almost made it inside when suddenly his stomach flipped and his meagre dinner decided to make a reappearance all over the front door mat. He swayed, wiping his mouth with a trembling hand as the door flew open. His mother looked at him, her expression horrified as he winced back at her. Max was peering at him from where he stood on the stairs in his pyjamas, clutching his treasured toy elephant Trunkie.

"I need my spray," he mumbled.

"Oh Harry," she sighed, helping him inside. "Where is it?"

"Bedroom," he said, each word feeling a mammoth ask.

"I'll get it!" Max chimed in, sprinting up the stairs.

His dad appeared too, and together his parents lowered him onto the sofa with matching grim faces. Max ran into the room, spray in hand and he took it with a small smile.

"Thanks Max," he smiled and pressed the bottle to his nose.

The spray slowly cleared his senses, the room sharpening. His ears, which he didn't realise had been ringing, went quiet. He still felt a little nauseous but he no longer felt like he was going to spew.

"Where were you?" His mum asked.

Harry's mind flashed to the skate park, to the look of disgust on Luc's face as he told him he was no longer his friends. His own face scrunched as the tears burned hot in his eyes.

"What's wrong?" She asked, seeing the tears and sitting beside him on the sofa, holding his hand tightly. He was grateful for once that they weren't berating him.

"I told Luc. He... he was really mad. He said I'm not his friend anymore," he replied, the tears falling again as he spoke, his voice juddering with heavy sobs. "I just feel like my life is over."

"Your life isn't over," his mum said firmly. "We will do the plan we agreed. We will move."

"Move?" He repeated numbly.

"You didn't listen to a word at dinner did you?" His father sighed.

Harry meekly shook his head.

"Your cousin Shannon has been given a Tueri diagnosis. Aunt Carol has been kind enough to suggest we move in, temporarily for now but maybe get our own house nearby permanently in time. Shannon can help you with your symptoms and you don't have to worry about finding a stranger."

Harry blinked, he thought back on Luc's reaction. He couldn't live with that disgusted face every day, not on a face he had cared about for so long. And what about Jamie, and Pete and Sam? He imagined their faces twisting with the same disgust that Luc's did and felt his chest tighten so much he couldn't breathe. He couldn't take that. He wasn't strong enough.

"I want to move," he blurted out. "As soon as possible."

"Well," his mum said with a small smile, "then that's settled then. We're moving."

2- HARRY

Harry didn't say goodbye to his friends. He didn't go back into school. He sent a text in their group chat explaining that he was moving away and then when the questions started flying, he ignored them. He noticed Luc read the message but send no reply. With a heavy heart, he quit the chat.

Jamie had called several times, Pete too. Apparently even turning up at the house once when Harry was thankfully out. But eventually they seemed to give up trying.

Good. They'd be better off without him anyway.

Harry sat in the back of his car, the boot behind him piled high with belongings. Max was sat across from him, grinning at him as he caught his eye, Trunkie still clutched tightly in his fist.

"I can't wait to see Aunty Carol!" He giggled and Harry smiled, even if it felt forced.

He looked forward to where his parents spoke quietly. He was grateful that they were prepared to upheave their whole lives for him. But he worried that things were going to be harder for a while, and it was all his fault. His mood had never been so low.

It was his birthday tomorrow, not that it had really been discussed. He hoped that he could at least get some happiness from the day, but it felt like this numb misery would be hanging around for a while.

Soon they arrived in the town of Chetley, and were pulling up outside his Aunt and Uncles house. The moment he stepped through the front door, his Aunt Carol gave him a big hug.

"How are you doing Harry?" She asked, and he smiled. He was getting good at faking that.

"I'm okay," he lied and she smiled.

"Good, well Shannon's out at the moment but we've discussed a plan that should work well to help you."

He nodded, slightly awkwardly and let Max loudly distract the rooms attention from him.

He was shown the bedroom that he and Max would be sharing and began to unpack his things. The night before his eighteenth birthday he hadn't been expecting to share a room with his six year old brother, but nothing in his life was the same anymore. At least Max was too young to understand, his excitable positivity a balm to his miserable mood.

He headed downstairs for dinner to find Shannon sat on the sofa.

"But I don't want to!" She hissed to her mother.

"He's your cousin," Aunt Carol replied sharply. "We look out for family. Don't be selfish Shannon!"

Carol looked up, spotting Harry and hitching an overly enthusiastic smile on her face.

"Harry! There you are sweetheart, Shannon was just saying how pleased she is that she can help you get better."

Shannon turned. She was a little older than him with a sharp pointed face that always made Harry feel like she was looking down her nose at him. Her icy grey eyes didn't help the cold look she gave him.

"Er, thanks," he said meekly.

She huffed and then cocked her head.

"Just sit down already, I'll give you five minutes and then I'm heading out to see James."

"No you're not young lady, you're staying for dinner," her mother chastised.

"Ugh Mum! Seriously?"

"Your boyfriend can wait," she insisted and Shannon shot daggers at her.

"Fine," she said through gritted teeth.

They both looked to Harry, who felt more of an unwelcome burden than ever. He approached the sofa and sat beside his cousin.

Nothing happened.

He blinked at her and Shannon huffed again, "it's not immediate okay? Just wait and you'll feel it."

Slowly an odd fizzing feeling started to rise up in his chest, spreading out across his body in strange sparks and pops. He felt a laugh bubble out of his mouth but had no idea where it had come from. He felt a light headed giddiness flow through him, not unlike the time Sam had snuck a bottle of champagne from his parents' drinks cabinet and they'd shared it out in the garden. It was alien, and strange and yet it was a relief not to feel that miserable ache even if only for a while.

"How's it feel Harry?" His dad asked, appearing in the doorway.

"Weird," he replied, his voice sounding like it was down a long tunnel.

"Thanks a lot," Shannon scowled, reaching for a pillow and hugging it to herself, "ugh you feel so cold!"

They sat Shannon beside Harry at dinner, who had managed to get to the table without stumbling. He felt drunk. Everything was blurred and he was struggling to think straight. This surely couldn't be a solution? He couldn't go about like this everyday?

To his relief however, the moment Shannon stepped away from the table at the end of dinner, the effects faded away and his brain began to function again, if a little more sluggish than before, his fingers the only place that still tingled with a vestige of her influence.

"So the plan is that Shannon will spend twenty minutes with you morning and night to help maintain your condition," his Aunt explained and Harry nodded.

"Thanks," he said quietly, looking towards the kitchen where Shannon was resolutely ignoring him.

The following morning, he awoke to Max jumping up and down on his bed.

"Happy Birthday Harry!" He cried, landing on his chest hard and knocking the wind from Harry's lungs.

"Thanks buddy," he croaked, smiling up at his eager face.

He wondered if he had looked like Max when he was younger. They had the same light brown hair, same grey green eyes. Except Max's were bright and full of life unlike Harry's dull ones. Perhaps once upon a time he had looked this carefree and happy too?

He let Max drag him downstairs to find a stack of birthday pancakes waiting, a '1' and '8' candle on top, already lit. A family tradition, birthday pancakes instead of cake. He smiled as his parents hugged him and wished him happy birthday.

Shannon too gave him a reluctant hug, and he began to feel that bubbly drunken happiness in his gut.

"Thanks guys!" He grinned, tucking into his pancakes.

The breakfast table was surprisingly happy as they handed him cards and gifts, and he opened them as they all ate more pancakes than seemed humanly possible.

"And lucky you, no government testing needed today so you can actually enjoy your whole birthday!" Carol beamed.

Normal Harry may have found this comment irritating, but Harry drunk on Shannon's presence laughed and agreed.

His parents seemed surprised and relieved by this happy version of their son, and Max was delighted. Especially when Harry agreed to play hide and seek with him.

Of course, as he sat hiding in the downstairs broom closet, the fake happiness in his gut faded, and he was left feeling a hollowness that not even his emotions were his own anymore.

He finished his game with Max and then headed upstairs to change and grab his camera before returning down to the kitchen.

"I'm going to go out, explore a bit," he said to his parents who blinked in surprise.

"On your own? Are you sure? We thought we could play some monopoly? We know you love Monopoly."

"You guys play, it's fine. I just kind of want to get to know the area, take some photos. Get some fresh air."

"If you're sure sweetie," his mum said, "don't forget your spray."

"I've got it," he said tapping his pocket. "Thanks Mum, see you later."

He gripped his camera tightly as he walked out into the surprisingly warm day. He had no idea where he was going, just that he needed to get out of that house for a bit and to feel like himself again. He snapped some photos of the trees that lined the street, admiring the golden light that dappled onto the road beneath.

He let his feet lead the way, finding himself on a busy highstreet, then walking past some white fronted townhouses. He saw a theatre, and a museum. He took photos of both before following signage to a park. He wandered through the park, photographing the squirrels and birds that hopped about beneath the trees or lingered in branches surveying him warily.

He breathed out heavily, feeling some of the weight that he'd been dragging around over the last few days lifting a little.

He heard shouts of laughter and strolled towards them. There was a skatepark, a big one. Two young teens were the source of the laughter as they rode their scooters, trying to perfect a new trick. The moment he saw it his mind flashed painfully back to Luc.

He turned abruptly away and felt his legs collide with something big and heavy, his camera slipping from his grip.

"Shit!" A voice said.

He looked up to see a boy around his age with a face speckled with freckles, brown eyes and copper coloured hair poking out from under a helmet. He was wearing a brown jacket and was perched on a bike, the same bike Harry had just walked straight into. The boy was looking down at his camera in horror.

"Oh no, is it broken?" He asked, hopping off his bike to pick up the camera.

Harry took it from him and inspected it but luckily it looked like it was damage free.

"It's fine," he said and the boy looked relieved.

"Good," he smiled. Harry blinked at the smile. It was wide and his whole face lit up with it. He felt something stir inside him, and felt his cheeks redden.

"I'm really sorry, I didn't mean to crash into you," he laughed sheepishly, still smiling that wide smile.

"It's fine, it's my fault I wasn't looking where I was going," Harry muttered, avoiding his gaze.

"I don't know you," he said with a frown. "Are you new in town?"

"Yeah, we moved here yesterday."

"Oh nice! Congratulations. I'm Robbie. What's your name?"

"Harry."

"Well Harry, I feel like I need to make it up to you for literally crashing into you. Fancy getting a tour of Chetley? There's a couple of bars on the back of my bike there that you can stand on, and I can show you the best spots?"

"No, it's fine honestly," he said hastily, but Robbie was insistent.

"Please," he begged. "I really have nothing better to do today anyway. It'll be fun?"

Harry didn't know what it was about Robbie, but something about his enthusiastic positivity reminded him a bit of Max. He liked it. He felt like someone he'd want to be friends with. But what if he ended up hating him just like Luc?

Something shifted inside him. The knot that seemed to have lived permanently in his stomach loosened a little, warmth spreading slowly through his chest. For once, he wasn't worrying about what Robbie might think of him, or what would happen when Robbie found out what he was. He simply wanted to say yes.

What was the harm in trying? He might lose a friend once he found out what he was, but better to lose a friend than not make one at all, right?

He smiled. A genuine smile that wasn't forced, and for once he didn't feel like his thoughts were racing. He felt calm, assured. He didn't know why, but god was he grateful.

"Okay. Sure," he said.

Robbie grinned and clipped off his helmet.

"Here, safety first," he said handing him the helmet.

"What about you?" Harry asked but he just shrugged.

"Figure I've crashed into you once already, I don't want to be responsible for you getting injured again."

"You didn't injure me," he laughed, surprised at himself as the sound escaped.

Robbie's eyes were bright as he held out the helmet again, "good, let's keep it that way."

Harry put on the helmet as Robbie got back onto the bike and held it steady, Harry climbed onto the pegs attached to his back wheels and steadied himself on Robbie's shoulders. He thought he'd feel nervous, touching his shoulders, but he felt excitement race through him. He was finally doing something out of his comfort zone and he was going to enjoy every second.

Robbie kicked off, and Harry had to hold in his cry of alarm. Robbie laughed as he clutched his shoulders tighter.

"Okay," he called over his shoulder. "First stop, book shop! Do you like books?"

"Yeah I like books," he replied and Harry could practically hear Robbie's smile.

Robbie rode through the park, weaving between people and animals with ease, then out onto the street beyond. He slowed outside a small shop with a little wooden sign hanging outside and put his feet to the floor.

"This is one of my favourite shops, it's got this cool old school vibe, like a fantasy place you know? Come on, I'll show you."

Harry followed him, bemused at how quickly Robbie seemed to have decided that he was his friend, but also pleased.

He took him inside the shop that had shelves piled high with books, the aisles barely big enough for them to walk through as the books teetered above them precariously. As they walked through Robbie pointed out various books he had read or recommended. He pulled out a book and handed it to Harry.

"You should buy this, I think you'll like it."

Harry shook his head, smiling, "how do you know, you've only just met me!"

"I just think you will," he grinned. "So will you buy it?"

Harry rolled his eyes but smiled. He looked at the cover. It was orange and in yellow writing read 'The Catcher in the Rye'.

"Okay" he said, "I'll buy it."

Book shoved deep into his coat pocket, and camera safely on its strap around his neck, he was soon back on the back of Robbie's bike.

He took him to a market where they browsed the wares on the various stalls, then to an arcade where they played on the various penny pusher amusement machines. Robbie's ridiculous delight when he won a plastic toy penguin off one machine was infectious.

Harry took photos at each place they visited, and Robbie grinned and posed for the last one, holding his penguin up to the camera.

"I'm calling him Paolo," he said and Harry laughed.

"Of course, he looks like a Paolo," he said and Robbie grinned.

"He does, doesn't he? Come on, I'm hungry. I know where to stop next."

Robbie rode them to a bakery where he pointed out all his favourite foods. They reached the counter, and Harry feeling unusually brazen ordered every item. Robbie laughed in delight.

"I knew I liked you," he grinned, and Harry felt a warmth in his gut at his words.

They stepped out of the bakery, and Harry reached into the bag but Robbie took it from him with a smile.

"Not yet," he said, hanging the bag off his handlebars. "One more stop."

This last stop was further than the rest, and Robbie seemed to struggle to keep up conversation as he rode up the increasingly steep hills.

"I can walk?" Harry suggested but Robbie shook his head.

"Nearly... there..." he panted.

They crested the top of the hill, and Robbie finally stopped. Harry stepped off, and Robbie wheeled his bike down a dirt track between some trees. Harry followed him through the trees, watching as Robbie turned with a triumphant expression. He gestured to the right and Harry followed his ga3. His mouth fell open.

The trees parted to reveal a beautiful view across the whole town, the sun was low in the sky and it lit the buildings below in a golden glow.

"Barely anyone knows this place exists, it's cool right?" Robbie said.

"So cool," he replied, gazing out for a moment more before lifting his camera to catch the moment. When he finally lowered his camera he saw Robbie had settled himself on the grass beside him and was waiting with the bag of baked goods.

"Thanks, I loved my tour," he said, sitting beside him. Robbie smiled.

"Plenty more places I can show you. But I hope it's enough to show you you've moved to an alright town."

"I think I'm going to like it here," Harry replied and Robbie grinned.

"I think so too."

The way he looked at him then made Harry's cheeks burn. Was he imagining that look?

"I have a confession," Harry said, surprising himself once again with his unusual confidence when it came to Robbie.

"Go on," Robbie said as he reached into the bag for a pastry covered in a cinnamon glaze and handed it to Harry.

He took a bite before answering, "I- it's my birthday today."

"No way!" Robbie gaped. "Aw man, you should have told me there are so many more places I could have taken you!"

"No, it's been perfect. I've had the best day, when I really didn't think I would. So thank you, Robbie."

Robbie paused, watching him closely.

"Eighteenth?"

"Yeah," he said and Robbie nodded. Everyone knew that the eighteenth birthday came along with a diagnosis. Suddenly Harry panicked. Robbie was obviously going to ask now, and what if he freaked like Luc did? What then? He didn't know if he could cope with that a second time. Not after having had such a good day.

"I assume you didn't get the result you hoped for?" he asked, just as Harry had expected.

"Not exactly," he sighed. "I... I've known for a while actually. I'm..." he paused, looking at Robbie's face and waiting for the change, the disgust, the outrage. "I'm a Reliant."

Robbie just nodded, a small sad smile on his face, "I'm sorry man, that sucks. But you'll get through it for sure."

Harry blinked, gazing at Robbie.

"You- you aren't mad?"

Robbie frowned, laughing slightly, "why would I be mad? It's not like it's your fault."

Harry swallowed, looking down at the pastry in his hands, feeling tears prick in his eyes.

"I'm sorry did I say something wrong?" Robbie asked, and Harry shook his head.

"No, you didn't do anything wrong. I'm just... I'm glad I met you."

Robbie grinned again, "I'm glad I met you too Harry."

3 - ROBBIE

He'd thought today would be a crappy day. He'd thought he'd have to drag himself from hour to hour to take his mind off his parents. They had told him they were getting a divorce earlier that week, and today was the day his dad was moving out.

He had upped and left on his bike before they could shout after him to stay and help. If his dad wanted to leave then fine, but he wasn't going to help him do it.

He knew it was the right decision, his parents did nothing but argue these days. But it didn't mean it hurt less to see him go.

He had gone to the skate park with the intention of riding some of the ramps before riding out to the viewpoint for most of the day to read his book in peace when suddenly the guy who'd been walking in front of him abruptly turned and slammed right into his bike.

"Shit!" He cried, watching as the boy dropped his camera and it crashed onto the hard tarmac at their feet.

He jumped off his bike and picked up the camera.

"Oh no, is it broken?" He asked, looking it over.

It didn't look too damaged but he knew how easily broken things like that could be. He handed it to the boy who turned it over in his hands. As he looked at it, Robbie got a closer look at him.

He had light brown hair that almost looked a dark blonde in the sun that lit it through the trees above. His eyes were a greyish green that Robbie couldn't help but find fascinating to look at. But he also looked tired, his eyes had large bags beneath them and his shoulders were slumped beneath his black coat.

"It's fine," he said, lifting those eyes to his and he couldn't help but smile dumbly back at him.

"Good," he said, watching as the boy blinked back at him as if confused. Then his cheeks reddened slightly and he looked away. Robbie felt his grin grow wider. He was cute. Really cute.

"I'm really sorry, I didn't mean to crash into you," Robbie laughed, finding it impossible to tear his eyes from his face. How had he never met this boy before now? He'd definitely know if he had.

"It's fine, it's my fault I wasn't looking where I was going." he muttered, still avoiding his gaze. No he definitely hadn't met this boy before.

"I don't know you," he said, trying to sound casual. "Are you new in town?"

"Yeah, we moved here yesterday."

"Oh nice! Congratulations. I'm Robbie. What's your name?"

"Harry."

"Well Harry, I feel like I need to make it up to you for literally crashing into you. Fancy getting the tour of the town? There's a couple of bars on the back of my bike there that you can stand on, and I can show you the best spots?"

"No, it's fine honestly," the boy replied, stepping back slightly. But Robbie wasn't going to let him just go. He knew he was tempted, and he wanted to make him smile. He wanted to get to know the boy with the pretty eyes. Besides what better distraction from his parents than hanging out with a cute guy all day?

"Please," he begged. "I really have nothing better to do today anyway. It'll be fun!"

Slowly, Harry's face broke into a reluctant smile. It was small, but it was real. His eyes were wary as they gazed at him, but they were bright with... excitement?

"Okay. Sure," Harry said.

Robbie grinned.

He gave him his helmet, which only made him look cuter and before he knew it he was on the back of his bike. It felt strangely natural. He shivered slightly at the cool air as he rode, despite the warm day, enjoying the weight of Harry's hands on his shoulders.

He had planned to take him to the obviously touristy places, the museum, the theatre maybe, but in a last minute change of plan he took him to his favourite bookshop. It was perhaps a little niche, but Harry seemed to like it which only made him like Harry more.

He watched him as he browsed the shelves, taking photos with his camera of the overstocked shelves. He pointed out his favourite books and Harry listened as if his word was gospel.

They headed to the market next, and he wheeled his bike through the stalls watching as Harry moved from stall to stall in fascination. Robbie chatted with some of the stall holders, noticing as Harry snapped more photographs. His smile was on his face permanently now, and he looked less tired than he had earlier. Robbie couldn't help feel pleased with himself.

He wondered whether since he could make him smile, could he make him laugh too?

He rode them to the arcade, and as they moved from game to game, Harry's smile grew to a grin that Robbie loved. He kept having to force his gaze elsewhere so not to freak Harry out by staring at him.

When Robbie won a small plastic penguin, he held it up in genuine delight. Harry immediately grabbed his camera, and he posed for the photo.

But the real prize was the bubble of laughter from Harry as he said, "I'm calling him Paolo."

"Of course, he looks like a Paolo," Harry replied, his face lit with amusement.

He wanted to take him to the viewpoint, but first some food. He debated between a few different places before deciding on the bakery. He showed Harry all the best things on sale and was surprised when Harry bought them all.

"I knew I liked you," he grinned, and Harry grinned back at him, his cheeks reddening again.

The ride up to the viewpoint was hard with Harry on the back of the bike, but he knew it would be worth it as he pushed on. When they finally made it, he watched as Harry took in the view for the first time.

He had never shown anyone this place, and he didn't know why he was bringing someone he'd only just met to his most special place. But it just seemed right to bring him here somehow.

Harry's face was the picture of wonder as he gazed over the cliffside down at the town beneath.

"Barely anyone knows this place exists, it's cool right?" He said, even though he wasn't looking at the view. He was looking at something much more interesting.

"So cool," Harry whispered, lifting his camera to catch the moment. Robbie settled on the grass beside him, watching as he was engrossed in photographing the view.

Harry eventually looked over and saw him waiting with the bag of baked goods. He sat down beside him and smiled.

"Thanks, I loved your tour."

Robbie smiled back.

"Plenty more places I can show you. But I hope it's enough to show you you've moved to an alright town."

"I think I'm going to like it here," Harry replied. Robbie felt relieved to hear that. Relieved that he would hopefully be seeing much more of Harry in the future.

"I think so too."

There was a cool breeze and Robbie did up his jacket against the chill as he looked out across the view. He realised he hadn't thought about his parents for hours. Not properly. And somehow, that didn't feel wrong.

"I have a confession," Harry said, after a short silence, looking down at his hands.

"Go on," Robbie said wondering if he was about to find out why he'd looked so tired and sad this morning. He reached into the bag for a pastry covered in a cinnamon glaze and handed it to Harry.

"I- it's my birthday today," Harry said haltingly.

Robbie hadn't expected that, "No way! Aw man, you should have told me there are so many more places I could have taken you!"

"No, it's been perfect." Harry said hastily. "I've had the best day, when I really didn't think I would. Thank you, Robbie."

If it was his birthday, then he could guess the reason why he looked so miserable. He remembered the fear on his own eighteenth birthday, going to take the test.

"Eighteenth?" He asked.

"Yeah," Harry replied.

He had hoped Harry would continue, to tell him what he expected. But he didn't. So he prompted him gently.

"I assume you didn't get the result you hoped for?"

"Not exactly, I... I've known for a while actually. I'm... I'm a Reliant."

Robbie had expected as much. It was unfair that someone as nice as Harry had been stuck with such a crappy lot.

"I'm sorry man, that sucks. But you'll get through it for sure."

Harry blinked, gazing at Robbie as if he was a stranger.

"You- you aren't mad?"

Robbie laughed in surprise and confusion, "why would I be mad? It's not like it's your fault."

Harry looked down at the pastry in his hands, and looked like he was about to cry. He felt a pang of guilt slice through him.

"I'm sorry did I say something wrong?" Robbie asked, and Harry shook his head.

"No, you didn't do anything wrong. I'm just... I'm glad I met you."

Robbie grinned again, "I'm glad I met you too Harry."

"Have you had the test?" Harry asked and Robbie nodded.

"Yeah, I'm nineteen, so I took it last year. I was Null."

Harry nodded, "lucky."

"Yeah," he said sheepishly. "I know some Tueris, if you need a contact?"

"It's fine. I've got my cousin at the moment, she's the reason we moved here. Although she doesn't seem too keen on helping me."

Robbie couldn't help himself pulling a face at that, "that's a bit shitty."

Harry just shrugged.

The night grew cold quickly, and Robbie found himself shivering despite Harry still wearing only a tshirt, his coat lying beside him on the grass with his camera.

"You not cold?" He asked, and Harry shook his head.

"No, I'm actually quite warm," he said and Robbie laughed.

"Fuck, well, I'm cold. Shall we head back into town? Find somewhere to go inside?"

"Actually I should probably be getting home, I think my parents might be worrying where I am."

"That's fair, thanks for sharing your birthday with me."

"Thank you for my birthday tour. Can I..." Harry hesitated, "see you again soon?"

Robbie smiled, "of course. Tomorrow?"

"Tomorrow is good," Harry said.

Harry clambered back onto Robbie's bicycle and together they rode back down the hill into town, Harry gave him directions back to his house and soon he was pulling up outside. Harry jumped down and smiled at him, returning his helmet.

"See you tomorrow Robbie," he said, with a long lingering smile that made his stomach flip.

"See you then birthday boy," he grinned, before pushing off and riding down the street feeling lighter than air, and suddenly not so cold anymore.

4- HARRY

The moment he walked into the living room Shannon curled her nose up at him.

"Ugh," she moaned "who have you been with?"

"None of your business," he said, still feeling dregs of that strange confidence he'd felt all day lingering in him.

"What did you just say?" She scowled and he blinked, reddening slightly.

"It's- no one ok?"

"Well obviously not no one, I can smell them all over you."

He frowned, confused.

His parents came into the room and smiled at him.

"Harry, there you are! We were wondering where you'd got to! What have you been doing?"

"I- made a friend."

"A Tueri friend," Shannon said, and then her face lit up. "Wait! This is great! You won't need me anymore."

"No, he's not a Tueri. He said he's Null."

She raised an eyebrow, "well you've been hanging out with someone who's a Tueri. You smell, sweet... like tree sap or honey."

"Who is your friend Harry?" His mum asked.

"I made a friend, he's called Robbie, but he's not a Tueri," he insisted.

"Sure," Shannon said. "Since you've already been with a Tueri all day, then I don't have to hang out with you tonight. I'm going out."

Before anyone could stop her Shannon walked out the room, and moments later the front door slammed.

"Did she just leave?" Aunt Carol said bustling into the room with a furious expression. "That girl is..."

She continued muttering as she returned to the kitchen leaving Harry alone with his parents.

"You look happy Harry," his mum smiled and he smiled back.

"I had a really good day," he said honestly and her smile grew.

"I'm so pleased sweetie."

Harry sat on the sofa, and his parents let him choose a movie. As he watched the movie, he thought over his day with Robbie. He had felt so happy with Robbie, he had been fun and energetic and just the sort of person he wanted to be friends with. And yet, what Shannon had said bothered him. Could Robbie be a Tueri? Had he lied to him about his diagnosis?

He hadn't needed his spray all day, and now he thought back to it, that warm confidence had started when he met Robbie and had died away once he'd gone. Could he be a Tueri and not know? Was that even possible?

His mind swam with questions, but every time he thought of Robbie's face, his wide easy smile, he couldn't fight down his own smile, the giddy excitement that flipped in his gut.

He went to bed as quietly as he could, hoping not to wake Max, and dreamed about the next day. He wished he'd thought to get Robbie's number, or socials. Instead he retrieved his camera, flicking through the shots of him he'd taken throughout the day. Him turning to look at him within the stacks of books at the little bookshop, his polite smile as he spoke with a stall holder at the market, his goofy grin as he held a small plastic penguin up to the camera.

He put down his camera, and reached for 'The Catcher of The Rye', reaching a chapter before drifting off to sleep, with a smile still playing on his lips.

The next morning, he headed down to breakfast, ate, and waited for Shannon to appear. There was loud bickering between his aunt and his cousin upstairs and soon she appeared, slouching onto the sofa next to him. It didn't take long for her odd effect to start filling him.

The sparks and bubbles felt like they were travelling up from his toes to his brain. His body slumped into the sofa cushions and he felt dazed as he gazed up at the ceiling that seemed to spin slightly.

"Right, that's twenty minutes," Shannon said abruptly, standing and walking away, leaving Harry alone still dazed as if drunk or high.

There was a knock on the door. He didn't move, still watching the ceiling swirl and dance. The knock sounded again, louder this time. He groaned slightly as he pulled himself to his feet and trudged to the door.

He opened it and blinked out stupidly into the bright daylight.

"Hey, woah," Robbie said, looking at him in slight alarm, "you good?"

"Robbie," Harry grinned, gripping the door tightly as he looked up at him. "You came back!"

"Yeah," Robbie said, laughing slightly but still looking concerned. "Of course I did. What's up with you?"

"Shannon," he mumbled and Robbie nodded as if he had no idea what Harry had said but was trying to be polite.

"Hey, come on, let's get you sat down before you keel over."

He put an arm under his and supported him through the threshold and down onto the grass. He felt warm and comfy as he lay back, smiling to himself. Robbie looking down at him like he was possessed. The sunlight lit him from behind and he looked so beautiful, his copper hair turning flaming red.

"You're so handsome," he giggled and Robbie's eyebrows shot up.

"Are you drunk? It's like 9am Harry."

"No," he shook his head. "Shannon," he repeated again. "My cousin, it's her Tueri influence."

Robbie finally seemed to realise what he was saying as he sat beside him, "Oh right. Shit, she makes you this bad?"

"It's better than an attack," he mumbled. Slowly, he was beginning to feel Shannon's influence fade, and feel it replaced by an ever increasing warmth in his gut. It was slowly chasing away the fizzing, moving like syrup through his blood... or like... honey.

'You smell, sweet... like tree sap or honey.'

He looked at Robbie closely.

"You're sure you're not a Tueri?"

"I told you," he said, "I'm Null. Why?"

"Nothing," he mumbled, "it's stupid."

He sat up slowly, suddenly remembering he had just called Robbie handsome. He flicked an embarrassed glance at him, but he seemed as light and cheerful as he did yesterday.

"Sorry you had to see me like that," he said, his brain fully back under his control again.

"It's fine," he smiled. "As long as you're okay."

"Thanks. I am now."

"So have you started the book yet?" Robbie asked and Harry shook his head.

"I did, I read the first chapter last night."

"And?"

"I like it. So far anyway."

Robbie nodded and smiled, "come on, there's another long list of places for us to see today."

Harry grinned and followed Robbie to his bike, spotting the spare helmet hanging off the front of the bars. Robbie turned and placed it on his head, helping tighten it under the chin. Harry gazed at his face as he did so, feeling a lick of delighted excitement and hope curl through him.

Robbie's eyes flicked up to meet his and he smiled at him, before tapping him on his helmetted head.

"Safe and sound," he said, "now let's go."

Robbie took him on another magical mystery tour through the town. They visited the library, a farm shop, a mini golf course, a milkshake parlour. At the latter, Robbie insisted on ordering their signature sundae topped with a ring doughnut each that made Harry's stomach hurt just to look at. He ate half of his before giving up, but Robbie was undefeated and ate every mouthful.

"Okay," Robbie said, walking out of the parlour clutching his stomach. "I don't think I can ride just yet. Want to walk for a bit?"

They walked down the high street, Robbie wheeling his bike as they passed shopfront after shopfront, chatting about the various stores and their wares. Robbie shared amusing anecdotes as he went of his life growing up in Chetley, and Harry was surprised to find him sharing stories too.

Harry felt comfortable with Robbie. It was as if he was here with one of his old friends from childhood, rather than someone he'd only met the day before.

Almost automatically their feet lead them towards the hill that led up to the viewpoint, and soon they were at the trees with the small dirt path. He followed Robbie through the trees just like yesterday and smiled as he saw that view once more.

"It's even better than I remembered," he said and Robbie nodded.

"I know, pretty special."

But Harry was certain that he hadn't been looking at the view when he said that. Robbie sat on the grass beside him, looking out across the valley, pulling his jacket tighter around him as Harry turned to him curiously.

That confidence that he never usually felt was filling his chest, and he smiled at Robbie as he spoke.

"So, are you in a relationship?" He asked. It was a brazen question, and even Robbie seemed surprised as his eyes widened. He laughed awkwardly.

"No, I'm not. Are you?"

"No," Harry replied, and Robbie nodded.

"Why'd you ask?"

Harry looked down, feeling his cheeks burn.

"I don't know," he laughed softly.

"Don't you?" Robbie smirked and Harry met his gaze.

"Curiosity I guess," he shrugged.

Robbie looked out at the view for a while before turning to him. Harry turned to look at him, and for a long moment they just gazed at each other.

Then suddenly Robbie was leaning in close. Harry's heart skipped a beat. It was more than he had ever hoped for. His face was close, and he had paused as if waiting for Harry to close the gap. To see if this was what he wanted.

He did.

He leaned forward and the moment their lips touched he felt an explosive heat burst inside him. He gasped against his mouth, his vision turning white, his whole body stiffening in response to this incredible feeling. It was only a second at most, but it felt like a lifetime.

Robbie pulled back suddenly. His face white as a sheet. He pressed his fingers to his lips and stared at Harry in pure shock. He didn't understand what had just happened, but Harry did. His heart hurt at the thought that he might be the one to change Robbie's life forever. But he couldn't let him go on living a lie.

"What-" he whispered, eyes widened. "How?"

"Robbie," Harry replied, gazing at him desperately. "I think you need to take the test again."

Robbie shook his head fiercely. "No. I'm Null."

"I don't think you are," he whispered and Robbie jumped to his feet.

"No. I took the test! I can't be a... a..."

"Shannon said she could smell a Tueri on me yesterday. You were the only person I was with. You know I was. Who else could it have been? And... that kiss? That was... incredible. But that wasn't a normal kiss Robbie."

Robbie ran a hand through his hair.

"I- I need to- I should go."

"Robbie-" Harry pleaded, feeling his eyes burn as they took in the panic on his face.

"I- I'm sorry. I need- I'll see you... soon."

And with that, Robbie grabbed his bike and disappeared between the trees leaving Harry stood alone, gazing at the gap in the trees where he'd disappeared wishing he could help, but knowing there was nothing he could do.

5 - ROBBIE

Robbie sat in the hospital waiting room, his leg bouncing incessantly as he chewed at his fingernails. He had run in during the last 20 minutes of closing and begged an appointment. The receptionist had taken pity on him and said that the doctor could squeeze him in at the end of his daily appointments if he was quick.

"It'll be quick," he promised.

Now, it was a waiting game.

"Robert Bailey?"

He practically ran in to the doctor's office, the doctor turning to him in alarm.

"Are you alright Robert?" She asked, looking him up and down.

"Robbie," he corrected, running a shaking hand through his hair, "and yeah. No. I-"

"Sit down and breathe," she said gently. "What's wrong?"

"I- I got a Null result, for the virus, when I was eighteen. But I've started feeling... things. Can I be tested again?"

"Robbie, if you got tested at eighteen then it's very unlikely that things have changed," she said reassuringly.

"Unlikely, but not impossible," he said, his hands gripping the chair tightly.

"Why do you think you have the virus?" She asked, still with that gentle almost patronising tone.

"I kissed someone who is a Reliant and..."he paused remembering the incredible way his body responded to Harry's kiss.

He had kissed boys before. He always enjoyed it. But kissing Harry had been like his body was hit by an ice cold wave. It reminded him of when he went surfing once in Cornwall, and fell from his board into the icy water. His breath had been knocked from his lungs and his mind momentarily struck dumb from the cold.

His kiss had felt just the same. Icy tingling spread across his skin at the thought alone and he shivered. But it wasn't a bad feeling. It was a really fucking good feeling. A feeling he wanted again and again. He felt some odd shadow inside him seem to raise its head, fixing its sights on Harry.

He was his.

He shivered at the thought, the thought that was so possessive, so alien to his own. The kiss with Harry igniting something he hadn't known lived inside him. He wanted to kiss him again, to feel every inch of him.

"Robbie?"

He flinched from the doctors touch and she frowned.

"Okay," she said, "I can see this has really shaken you up. So I'll repeat your test for your own peace of mind. But the result is likely to stay the same."

He said nothing as she shuffled in the drawers and withdrew the same device he'd seen over a year ago. She took his blood and inserted it into the machine.

It would take a few minutes. He knew that. But god, had seconds always felt this slow?

After what felt like an age, the machine stopped whirring and began printing out his result. The doctor took it, opening her mouth to speak and then froze, frowning.

"But-" she muttered, looking from Robbie's medical file on her screen, to the slip of paper in her hand.

"This shouldn't be possible," she whispered.

"I'm a Tueri. Aren't I?"

She looked at him and forced a smile, "I apologise I doubted you, Robbie. Yes, it seems you... somehow have had had a late mutation of the virus. Or the virus was dormant still during your testing? I... This should not be possible. Any changes after eighteen are extremely rare. They will likely want to call you back for further research." She paused and suddenly looked pityingly at him, "I assume you understand what a Tueri diagnosis entails?"

He nodded, feeling numb. His mind slipped back to Harry again, as it always did. What did this mean for them? He should end things, it wasn't safe. He was clearly already becoming obsessive like he had heard could happen, and yet. He really didn't want to do that.

She spoke to him about his duty as a Tueri to help others and gave him some details about the government database and a leaflet outlining his diagnosis. She was almost as shocked as he was, and both were equally relieved when it was time for Robbie to leave.

He walked from the doctors, wheeling his bike. Too numb, too frightened to ride home. His life had been completely turned on its axis and he had no idea what he was supposed to do. It wasn't supposed to go like this. He was supposed to be Null.

He locked his bike in the garden and walked into his home, his eyes snagging on the pieces of furniture and belongings that his father had taken away with him. His chest tightened again, like a belt being cinched one knot tighter around his ribs. He walked straight up to his bedroom, ignoring his mum as she called after him, and collapsed on his bed.

He stared up at the ceiling, his mind a mess of whirling emotions and tangled thoughts. All he could cling to was one desperate thought that circled again and again. He had to see Harry.

6- HARRY

He awoke with a start to his phone buzzing at around midnight, and he glanced at the screen with bleary eyes.

It was a message request on Instagram.

Robbie_b28: Hey, you awake? x

He started up into a sitting position opening the message. He glanced at the profile picture and smiled. It was definitely Robbie.

Harry_marsh444: hi

Harry_marsh444: how'd you find my socials?

Robbie_b28: it took me a while... I found you through Shannon.

Robbie_b28: advantage of living in a small town.

Harry_marsh444: ahhh smart, how are you?

Robbie_b28: I'm at the viewpoint.

Harry blinked down at his phone in surprise.

Harry_marsh444: Robbie it's the middle of the night..

Robbie_b28: I couldn't sleep.

Robbie_b28: will you come? x

Harry bit his lip. He knew this was risky territory. But he had a feeling in his gut that Robbie really needed him right now. And he remembered how much it had hurt when he had got his diagnosis, how alone he had felt. He couldn't let Robbie feel that way. Couldn't leave him to suffer when he had been the one to pull Harry out of his own dark cloud.

Harry_marsh444: I'll be there in 15 x

He dressed quietly and snuck down the stairs, unlocking the door as quietly as he could and sneaking out into the night. The town was deadly still, not a soul saw him as he walked out of town and climbed the hill up to where he knew Robbie was waiting.

He slipped through he trees following the weak beam of his phone torch and saw the outline of him slumped on the floor. He heard a sniffling noise and a shuddering breath.

"Robbie?" He said softly, and he saw him turn.

"Hey," he replied, his voice sounding hoarse and so unlike his normally bright self. He lifted his torch light and could see his face was puffy with tears.

He approached slowly, watching as Robbie stood, sniffing again. His shoulders were slumped and he looked so miserable Harry felt it in his own bones.

"Robbie," he said again softly and Robbie lifted his eyes to meet his.

"I got the diagnosis," he whispered. "Officially like. You were right."

Harry nodded, but he felt no pleasure in being right about this.

"I'm sorry," he replied, gazing at Robbie's grim face through the dark.

"I know I shouldn't have asked you to come. That this between us is a bad idea given everything but... No one else knows, and I could really do with someone to hug right now," he said, his voice dissolving into shuddering tears again.

Harry didn't hesitate. He crossed the gap between them in a few steps and wrapped his arms around him. Robbie held him tightly, shaking slightly as he cried into his shoulder.

Now he knew for sure what it was, Robbie's influence was painfully obvious. It wasn't a sudden change, it was a slow warmth that built inside him. Along with it a calm assurance that he could do this, that he could do anything, as long as Robbie was with him. He tightened his hug.

"You're alright," Harry whispered softly. "You'll be fine, we'll get through this okay? One day at a time."

When Robbie eventually lifted his head he started back in surprise.

"What is it?" Harry asked, gazing up at his startled tear blotched face.

"You- you're like... glowing."

Harry looked down at himself but saw nothing out of the ordinary, "what?"

"I don't know, I guess it's because I can sense you or something? But you've got this light around you. It's subtle but it's there."

"Well, forget about that for a minute. Tell me everything that's happened."

Robbie sighed, sitting down on the grass, Harry following, and began to fill him in on his doctor's visit and the things has been feeling since.

"And you didn't get any of these feelings before now?"

"I guess I did, maybe? I don't know. You're the first Reliant I met, maybe that's why I hadn't known it til now?"

"Sorry," Harry grimaced and Robbie rolled his eyes.

"You know I didn't mean it like that."

"I know, but I do feel like since you've met me everything has gone wrong for you," Harry admitted.

Robbie shook his head, "don't think that, please."

Harry went quiet for a moment, watching Robbie's face. He was no longer crying, but he still looked agonisingly sad.

He considered for a moment before blurting out, "am I cold?"

"Sorry?" Robbie frowned, a small bemused smile lifting his lips.

"Shannon," he explained, "she said I feel cold."

He seemed to consider for a moment and then laughed lightly, "Yeah. I hadn't really thought about it but I have been colder when I'm with you."

He saw Harry's expression and then continued, "Not bad cold, but like a cool breeze. Like... siting here on the cliffside in the morning. It's nice. Although when you kissed me it was like a bucket of ice water had been dumped on my head."

"So even your body is giving you a cold shower when you kiss me," Harry said with a grim laugh, "great."

"It was still a great kiss though," Robbie grinned. "I don't regret that part whatsoever."

"You don't?" Harry asked, smiling at him and Robbie shook his head.

"I've had a shit couple of days, but meeting you, and then kissing you? Definitely the good part."

Harry smiled wider.

"What do I feel like?" Robbie asked, his face curious.

"Warm, and it's really slow, which is why I think I didn't spot what you were right away. I like it. And I think, I may be wrong, but I think you make me more confident? Normally I worry and dwell on things a lot, and never say or do they things I really want to. But with you, it feels easy. I don't worry as much about what people will think."

"Shit," he said eyebrows raised, "I didn't know it could affect emotions like that?"

Harry nodded, "I know. It's kind of crazy."

"Did," Robbie hesitated, "did you like it when I kissed you?"

Harry laughed, "Of course. I thought that was obvious."

Robbie shrugged, "Just wanted to make sure. Would you... want to kiss again?"

"Yeah," Harry said, "I'd like that."

Robbie's smile was nervous, and perfect as he glanced down at his lips then back up to his eyes. He leaned closer, and their lips touched again.

The kiss wasn't as intense as it had been the first time, but it was still pretty incredible. Warm, sweet liquid seemed to rush through his veins as he leaned into the kiss. Robbie's breath caught slightly, and he lifted a hand to cup his face, pulling him closer. His lips felt so perfect as they crushed against his, and Harry found himself grabbing Robbie's jacket collar, stopping him from pulling away, from ending this perfect moment.

Eventually when they parted, Robbie was panting. His brown eyes seemed darker than before, and he shivered slightly, his mouth quirking as his thumb stroked Harry's cheek where it still cupped it.

"I'm going to need to buy some more jumpers," he teased and Harry laughed.

"Shut up," he grumbled and Robbie grinned.

"It's chilly!"

"I hate you," Harry retorted, the lie weak as it left his lips.

"No you don't," Robbie smirked.

He lowered his hand and looked out across the dimly lit town beneath, Harry followed his gaze, a few street lights and still lit windows the only sources of light in the dark.

"So what now?" He asked and Robbie sighed heavily.

"I have no idea."

7 - ROBBIE

Robbie lay awake when he returned home, unable to stop thinking about Harry. His thoughts were loud, and he massaged his temples groaning to himself.

When he was with Harry, it all felt so easy. Right. But when they were apart it all became a tangled mess. He second guessed every word, every decision.

He pulled open his laptop and searched for Tueri discussion boards. He found them quickly and began scrolling through the chats.

'Does anyone else's eyes change colour when they're intimate with a Reliant?'

'Can the government force you to mix with Reliants if you don't want to?'

'How can I stop obsessing over a Reliant?'

He clicked on the last title and read through the threads of advice and conversation.

One particular post caught his eye.

'Honestly this is one of the most challenging parts of being a Tueri. Especially as attraction to some Reliants can feel so real. The best thing is to distance yourself and if that's not possible, mix with other Reliants. Just be careful not to let yourself mix obsession with reality.'

He bit his lip as he thought about his relationship with Harry. Was it real? Or was it obsession?

And if it wasn't real... he thought of Harry and felt a wave of misery roll over him. He desperately wanted it to be real. He imagined that smile, those green eyes. He flinched and fixed his eyes resolutely back on the laptop screen.

He continued scrolling through article after article, researching his condition manically. He found out that the glowing thing was quite common, some suggesting it appeared when it was a particularly strong Reliant/Tueri connection. He frowned at some of the entries that spoke about Reliants like they were just objects, and others that sounded painfully too close to home.

His eyes burned with exhaustion and he read the time on the laptop as 3:48am. With a sigh, he threw the laptop down and stared back up at the ceiling. He needed to sleep. But he had a feeling that he was going to be awake for a lot longer yet.

8 - HARRY

"I don't understand," he whispered down the phone.

He had been so excited when Robbie asked for his number, when his phone had rung. But now he felt numb, like his heart had been ripped out.

"I'm sorry," Robbie said, his voice bitterly sad.

"But- last night? You said-"

"I know what I said," Robbie replied.

Harry swallowed, "then why?"

"It's for the best."

Harry felt his anger rise, "So that's just it? You said all that stuff last night about not regretting kissing me and now you've just what? Changed your mind? You don't want to see me anymore?"

"No, it's not like that," he said, "I just- I- it's complicated. With what we both are, we have to-"

Harry gritted his teeth, "save the excuses Robbie, I don't want to hear them."

"Harry please-"

He hung up and threw the phone onto his bed, burying his face in his hands. First Luc, now Robbie. He felt his throat thicken and his eyes burn with tears that he refused to shed. Not tears of sadness, but anger. Anger that pulsed through him, not aimed at Robbie, but himself, at the virus, at the shitty situation. He knew it wasn't Robbie's fault, and he knew that Robbie hadn't wanted to hurt him. But that didn't make it hurt any less.

He rose from bed a while later, dressed and went down to see Shannon sat on her phone on the sofa. She eyed him, but didn't move. Sighing he sat on the sofa beside her, wishing he could be with Robbie instead.

Over the next few days, his fleeting hope that Robbie would change his mind faded. He walked up to the viewpoint a few times in the hopes of finding him there, but there was no sign of Robbie or his bike anywhere.

He had written a dozen different texts, but never sent a single one. Robbie had been the one to suggest they stop seeing each other, he had to be the one to break that. He hoped, someday, he would.

His mum had decided he was missing too much of his education, and had enrolled him in the nearby school, Chetley Academy. He had agreed, hoping that he'd bump into Robbie there, but there was no sight of his coppery hair and freckled cheeks anywhere.

He didn't really make immediate friends, but some of his peers were nice enough. One day he plucked up the courage to ask one of them about him.

"Robbie Bailey? Yeah I know him, he's usually around town on his bike. He goes to the other school I think."

"Yeah he does," the other boy piped up, "Pretty sure his parents broke up this summer. Heard his dad moved out a few days ago."

Harry winced at that. Another big life change he was going through right now. No wonder he wanted some space. It wasn't like they were really 'friends'. He'd only known him, what? A couple of days at most? Robbie probably had loads of other friends to talk to right now. Why would he want Harry? Especially considering what he was...

A week passed, and still no word from Robbie. But that didn't stop Harry thinking of him every single day. He ached to know if he was okay, to see him.

However it was Shannon who threw everything sideways.

"I got in! I got in!" Shannon cried to her mother, who gasped her hands over her face.

"Oh my darling! What wonderful news!"

"What?" Harry's mum asked bemused, "what is it?!"

"I got THE internship! The internship that everyone has been wanting! Three months studying fashion in Paris!" She squealed.

Harry watched as the penny slowly dropped around the room, his mum glancing at him and then at his father.

"That's lovely," she said, her voice a little forced. "When do you leave?"

"Monday!" She cried. "Ah I can't wait to tell James!"

She ran from the room, delighted, leaving an awkward silence in her wake.

"So what does that mean for Harry?" His father asked his aunt gruffly, she gaped back at him.

"Come on, Tony. You can't expect Shannon to give up her dream internship? I know Harry needs a Tueri, but this is a big deal for her."

"This is a big deal for him," his mother said icily. "Don't you think this is something we should have known about before we packed up and moved half way across the country?"

"I didn't expect her to actually get the bloody thing!" His aunt said defensively. "Besides, don't you have a Tueri friend now who can help you?"

"It's... complicated," Harry admitted quietly.

"Well," his aunt sniffed, "uncomplicate it, and quickly. Shannon is going on Monday, and none of us are making her feel guilty about that. My baby is going to study fashion in Paris!" She made a small giggling noise and practically danced off into the kitchen.

Both his parents looked to him with tight grim faces.

"It's okay," he said firmly, sounding far more confident than he felt, "I'll speak to Robbie. It'll be fine."

*

Harry hesitated for a long time before finally pressing call. He sat out on the bench in his aunts garden, listening as the phone dialled. For an awful moment he thought Robbie wasn't going to answer, then he'd have no idea what to do, but then the dial tone stopped.

"Hey."

Robbie's voice made Harry's stomach flip in a way he hadn't expected.

"Hi Robbie," he replied, briefly forgetting why he was calling, so excited was he to talk to him again. "Look, I know you don't want to see me. But I sort of need your help."

"What's wrong?" Robbie asked, his voice sounding worried.

"Nothing," Harry said quickly. "Well, nothing yet. It's Shannon, she's leaving for Paris for three months and obviously that leaves me a bit..." He paused trying to find the word. "Stuck," he finished lamely. Rather the understatement.

Silence.

Harry ran a hand through his hair, clutching the phone tighter to his ear.

"And, I was hoping," he continued awkwardly, "that you might be able to... you know, help me out? I know it's not ideal so if you don't want to I get it but-"

"Obviously I'll help you, Harry. Do you really think I'd just let you get sick?"

He smiled slightly to himself, feeling relieved.

"No, I... I hoped you would. But I knew you were trying to keep some distance and... I don't know."

"The pamphlet says clothes are good. I could drop some off in the morning? Replace them every few days or so?"

"Yeah," Harry agreed, "that would be great. If you don't mind. I can come get them from yours if that's easier?"

"Nah it's cool, I ride past your house all the time, it's no bother."

"Okay," Harry said. "Thanks."

He'd hoped that Robbie would suggest hanging out, maybe going to the viewpoint or even better... kissing again. But he knew that had been a desperate wish. This, at least, was a start. And it would stop him from getting ill.

Another long silence stretched down the phone.

"How've you been?" Robbie asked and Harry nodded, forgetting that Robbie couldn't see him.

"Good," he replied. "You?"

"Yeah, I'm... I'm okay," Robbie said, then quietly added, "I've missed you."

Harry grinned at that leaning back into the bench,

"I missed you too," he whispered, feeling as if he could hear Robbie's smile in response.

"I'll drop a bag off in the morning, about 8?"

"Perfect. Thanks Robbie."

"Bye Harry."

Harry hung up, breathing out heavily. He'd thought talking to or not taking to Robbie would clear up his mind once and for all on where they stood. And yet, his words had only made him more confused.

Robbie had said he missed him, said he'd help him, and yet it sounded like he still intended to keep his distance. Standing, he pocketed his phone and headed back inside to tell his parents the good news.

9 - ROBBIE

With a bag of bundled clothes swinging off his handlebars, Robbie rode towards Harry's house the next morning unable to stop smiling.

He had had a miserable week, and although his obsessing over Harry had lessened with the distance, his pining hadn't. It was almost as though his head was back under his control, but his heart? That was already long gone. The moment his phone had rung and he saw Harry's name, all the emotions came flooding back and he grinned stupidly before even picking up.

He'd wanted to call him every day they'd been apart, wanted to ride to his house and say 'forget it!' But every time he got cold feet, worry that he was manipulating Harry like those horrible Tueris had boasted about doing online.

Home wasn't exactly the nicest place to be either. His mum was struggling more than he expected, and probably she expected, with his dad's departure. She cried a lot, and Robbie tried to comfort her as best he could, but in his own wallowing mood it was difficult.

He wanted to tell her the truth about his diagnosis, but every time he plucked up the courage, it wilted at her puffy tear stained face. She needed to get through one load of bad news before he loaded her with another. But the longer he kept it quiet the bigger the secret felt.

So to avoid the gnawing guilt in his stomach, he spent as much time as he could out of the house. When he wasn't at school, he'd be on his bike. He'd begun cycling further and further, to places he'd never been before. He enjoyed the ache in his muscles, the burn in his chest, feeling more grounded in his body, in his mind as he did so. He tried to convince himself that the cool breeze on his face did not remind him of Harry. That he wasn't looking for him on every street corner each day he rode back into Chetley.

And now here he was, riding to his house. It didn't take him long to arrive, and soon he was leaning his bike against the front fence and grabbing the bag of jumpers and t-shirts that he had managed to throw together. It felt strange, brining a bag of worn clothes to give to somebody, especially somebody he liked. He had a sudden panic that they might smell bad. BO wasn't quite in keeping with the look that he wanted to impress Harry with.

He shoved the unhelpful thoughts aside and placed the bag on the doorstep, knocked once and then retreated back up the path, running a hand through his messy helmet hair as if it would make any sort of difference.

The door opened, and suddenly Harry was standing before him. He was just as he remembered, and yet somehow better too. His eyes looked greener today, and his soft curling hair was far more appealing than Robbie's flaming red birds nest ever was. Then Harry smiled, a dimple forming in his cheek as he did so. He'd never noticed he had a dimple before now. And suddenly Robbie was grinning back at him, unable to stop himself.

Relief that Harry wasn't angry, or upset with him flooded through him. The way his eyes had brightened could almost make Robbie believe he was pleased to see him.

"Hey," he said, hating how dumb he sounded as he gazed at him.

"Hi," Harry beamed back. Robbie's eyes drifted to that glow around him that he'd first seen the other night. It almost seemed to pulse as he did so. He pulled his eyes back to Harry's face, trying not to get starstruck all over again.

"I er, left the bag on the doorstep for you," he said, shoving his hands into his pockets as he nodded at the bag at Harry's feet.

Harry looked down and picked it up, peeking inside for a moment.

"Thanks Robbie," he smiled. "I really appreciate you helping me."

"It's the least I can do," he said, and he meant it. He wanted to do so much more. He could feel the itch in his feet to step closer, to close the gap between them and kiss him again. Fuck, would it feel like last time? Maybe even better....

"I heard about your dad," Harry said suddenly. "I'm sorry."

Robbie blinked, his fantasy shattering as his words sunk in.

"Oh," he said, looking down and grimacing slightly. "It's fine, it's for the best."

"You said that the other day too... about us," Harry said quietly. "'It's for the best'."

"Did I?" He rubbed a hand on his neck awkwardly. "Huh, yeah I guess I did."

"Do you... feel any different than you did before? With some distance and all?" Harry asked carefully.

Robbie swallowed, "I... I don't know. Not really. A bit? I-" he broke off, sighing. "I'm still figuring things out Harry."

"I get that," he said, with an encouraging smile. "I don't mean to make it harder for you."

"You don't," he said immediately. "You aren't."

"I feel like I am," Harry laughed sadly, and the look in his eyes made Robbie feel awful. Had he done that? Had he hurt him?

He took a step closer down the path, reaching his hands out desperately. "Harry, you did nothing wrong, you know that right? This is all about me, me working out my own body, what I am. You are... amazing. And if it wasn't for what we are I'd be... well I'd probably be kissing you right now."

Harry's cheeks turned pink.

"You want to kiss me?"

"So much," he admitted. "I really like you Harry."

He felt his feet stumble a step closer, irresistibly pulled towards him like he was his personal centre of gravity.

"I like you too," Harry said, and Robbie gazed at him, feeling the agonising screams of his wants and desires grow deafening.

He didn't know what to do, but however hard he tried he couldn't tear his eyes from Harry's face.

"We shouldn't," he whispered.

Harry shook his head, "no, we shouldn't."

He took one more faltering step forward and they collided.

He'd thought about kissing Harry many times over the last week apart. He'd begun to think that maybe his imagination had over exaggerated just how incredible that first kiss had felt.

But as he felt Harry's lips against his, his face in his hands, he knew that he hadn't over exaggerated a thing. Ripples of delicious cold, like water seemed to spread through his bones, his blood. It was an addictive feeling that he wanted to experience again and again. He shuddered, but only pressed his body into Harry firmer where he leant against the door frame. Harry made a soft noise that sent his brain spiralling. He felt Harry's hands around his waist, pulling him in, wanting him.

How could he ever stay away from this?

When they finally parted, Robbie laughed softly, pressing his forehead to Harry's, his hands still holding his face.

"What am I meant to do with you?" He mumbled.

Harry smiled up at him, his cheeks pink and Robbie traced the indentation of his dimple with his thumb.

"Sorry," he replied.

"Don't apologise for that," he laughed, "I am entirely to blame. Although maybe it is your fault. I find you too irresistible."

Harry chuckled, "what can I say, I'm just that sexy."

Robbie raised an eyebrow, "feeling confident are we?"

Harry smirked slightly, "you're the one calling me 'irresistible' and practically tackling me at my front door."

"Fair enough," he chuckled, sneaking another brief kiss before pulling away reluctantly.

"So, I take it keeping our distance is... off?" Harry asked and Robbie grimaced.

"Yeah that was fucking awful. And clearly didn't do shit. So I say, let's just embrace it and see what happens."

"You mean...?"

Robbie grinned at Harry's hopeful expression. He felt like a fool for dithering, for worrying when he knew deep down he liked Harry. Whatever the virus was doing to them, it hadn't created that feeling from nothing. He just had to be careful. He'd be careful and everything would be fine.

"Harry Marsh," he said with a broad grin, holding out a hand, "will you go on a date with me?"

Harry's answering grin was answer enough.