He points to a blue house at the end of the lane. "Our house is on the left. ...Do you need a hug?"
"Oh, I—I couldn't..."
He wraps you in his big, jacketed arms and pulls you in close, pressing you against his shirt. Being tightly surrounded in warmth and soft fabrics brings relief, even if you weren't expecting it. Every time you have to talk to someone, you come out of it exhausted, but Kevin hugs give you some semblance of energy back.
"You'll be okay." You feel his voice hum inside his chest.
After building up the courage you need, you pull away from him. "T-thank you."
All up to you now, Colton.