Shawn and Bobby played outside for a while, running around in a semi-remake of G.I. Joe cartoons.  The play seemed to drift away from Shawn's house--whether intentionally, or by accident, it was hard to say. Nevertheless, Shawn could feel the hard press of the night's memories interrupting his summer playtime. The idea that tears were needed by tonight, when Griffix would return. He reached into his pocket--something he had seen Dad do a million times. Only instead of checking for a wallet like an adult, Shawn could feel the cold familiar touch of the vial that Griffix gave him.

Just then, a familiar voice rang out to join the summer romp.

"Hey fart-brains!" Eddy yelled, coming towards both Bobby and Shawn on a red bicycle.

"Shit-balls!" he proclaimed, adding one more vulgar word as he approached with a happy look on his face.

Shawn made his face brighten and his eyes sparkle - it seemed like Eddy was a welcome presence in Shawn's life. He waved at him excitedly. "Hey Eddy! Want to play?"