Aziraphale was walking him later than he had planned, already planning to deal with an earful from his siblings and prolonged backache from the sheer weight of his backpack but that was just the way it was. He had to get all he needed for the next semester (and one or two 'fun' reads he could pass off as essential reading) while finishing up this one. He was so happy this year. He had been homeschooled for all of primary, did half days for the start of secondary at some halfway school thing and now he was finally a full time student. This was his first year and it was -- mixed.

He loved the learning, the classrooms, the science and the literature lessons but the other kids? Well, they didn't like him. Of course they didn't, he was the strange Mormon who's guardians wouldn't let him do sex ed or music. Nevertheless, he was happy.

So far, he had amazing grades, the teachers loved him and he had only been beaten up about four times.

As he walked home with his book haul, he looked around cautiously. It was Late. Proper late. Almost nine! And he didn't fancy being robbed or attacked by some escaped loon who might have a knife. He heard all about London knife crime. Granted, that was inner city but still - council estates had dangers too.

He paused as a figure caught his eye. Sitting on the sidewalk, head in hands, looking utterly miserable. Well. That was awkward - he knew that fellow. It was Crowley. Quite the knave but that didn't mean he couldn't get upset. Unlikely though, given all he knew. Maybe it was an accident? He could be hurt. So was he allowed to leave? Seemed wrong to walk away. What if he was injured? He didn't seem to notice Aziraphale so maybe he was in agony or in shock or panic! It was so hard to tell in the dark.

He pulled out his pocket flashlight and turned it on, trying to check in on Crowley. "Uh, hello. Do you need an ambulance?"