Word Count: 350


Teddy walks along the cliff overlooking the sea. Behind him in the distance, back at Shell Cottage, the others are all laughing and enjoying themselves. He could blend in and wear a mask. Merlin knows he has learned how to fake a smile and pretend.

But he's so tired and so damn lonely. It doesn't matter that he spends so much time surrounded by friends. He still feels so alone.

His eyes flicker to the water below. A seagull gives a cry before spreading its wings and diving. It's a majestic sight, but it isn't enough to hold his attention. His mind drifts again.

It's unfortunate that he can't seem to enjoy himself. It's Dominique's eleventh birthday, and he is afraid he's ruining it.

"I thought I would find you here."

Teddy turns, offering his grandmother a shaky smile. "Hi, Gran."

His grandmother smiles and moves closer, standing shoulder to shoulder with him. "We aren't so different, you know," she tells him. "My family disowned me. Different circumstances, but I know the loneliness you feel, my boy."

"By all accounts, it doesn't make sense," he says with a heavy sigh.

He's grateful to have his grandmother in his life. She and his godfather have both invested so much time into making him into who he is today. It feels like he's spitting in their faces by feeling this way, like he's telling them that everything they've done isn't good enough.

"It isn't supposed to," she says. "You can't help how you feel. And when you feel so alone… It is a heaviness that you can't shake."

He looks up at her, nodding. "Like the world is on my shoulders."

"And no one could ever understand," she agrees.

He smiles. Maybe she really does get it. He sighs, relief flooding his body.

"Can I have a hug now?" she asks, holding her arms out.

Teddy nods, hugging her and resting his head on her shoulder. It's still so hard sometimes. He will never truly feel like he belongs. But maybe, just maybe, it will be okay. At least he isn't alone.