So Zeke told me the story. When he’d finished I was flooded with joy and wrapped my arms around him tightly, never wanting to let go and he responded the same, his chin resting against my head. There came a sharp tap on the door and we pulled apart. Mr. Black’s voice pierced the door, reverberating around the room. “I’m gonna have to hurry you up sonny,” he said sharply, “We’ve got a bit of a queue forming.” I shivered. Zeke noticed and dug a hand into his jacket pocket pulling out a small wad of bills.

He walked over to the door and opened it slightly. “How much extra time will this get me?” he asked, handing over the bills. I could hear the quick shuffle of notes as Mr. Black checked the amount. “Half an hour” he determined quickly, shutting the door again.

When Zeke turned round, I was curled up on the sofa in the corner, my arms wrapped around my knees that I’d pulled up to my chest. He was by my side in an instant, his arms around me. I found my voice.

“I can’t do this anymore” I whispered