Niles just nodded ever so slightly, falling in against Gabe. So soft and gentle. It's just what he needed. To let Gabe lead. He was far stronger, he knew just what to do. He'd make everything better.

Resting his forehead against Gabe's, he let his free arm fall over his friend's shoulders. Just holding him close. "More than we already are?" The incongruity should have been more of a concern. They weren't going anywhere. But he sounded more curious, if a little sad, than anything.

Without hesitation, he follows Gabe's lead. His feet feel heavier even than his heart, still wishing some how it were Connor leading him through the steps. There had been a dance planned for the school, set for a few weeks after that awful day. They'd just announced it before the weekend. He wanted to ask Connor to go with him. He was going to ask Gabe for permission after chapel that day, ask him for help and advice. The school would never let two boys go to a dance together, but they could find a way. He'd been so sure of it. But he'd never had a chance to even ask. Instead, he cried in Connor's arms while their classmates screamed...

But at least he could be with Gabe, now.