And Fran leans against them, wrapping her arms around their waist and resting her head against their chest. It makes the rough bark of the tree scrape against her arm, but she doesn't mind. She's comfortable here.

She can remember that night so clearly. A dark figure escaping out the window, and another taking its place beside her.

And who are you, now?

I'm a friend.

They'd been so reassuring, staying with her until the police came.

"Perhaps I need you again now, in a way. I'm very lonely, you see. All my friends are here, or in Ithersta. Save Mister Midnight, of course."