After the death of his aunt, Phillip Wynne is left adrift. He isn’t sure how to mourn the woman who raised him with so little affection. His only solace is his childhood friend, Ryan. Ryan has always been the one bright thing in Phillip’s life, but while Ryan lives out and proud, Phillip is terrified by the feelings Ryan inspires in him. For years he’s kept them locked away, but when Ryan suddenly confesses his love, Phillip discovers that denying his own feelings might be the only thing scarier than finally owning up to them. PHOTO DESCRIPTION: Two young boys around age six or seven exchange a sweet, innocent kiss behind a caption that reads “No matter what age. No matter what gender. Love is love.” The taller boy is gently cupping the smaller boy’s chin while the smaller boy grips the strap of the taller boy’s backpack. STORY LETTER: Dear Author, This was their first and only kiss but Ryan has always loved Phillip. Ryan is out and proud now, and has known he was gay since this first kiss about 20 years ago. Phillip had seemingly forgotten this perfect moment which hurt Ryan a lot. Through the years the boys remained best friends but things are about to change... I would really like to know how these guys get their HEA. Note: HEA, GFY, no cheating or BDSM Thank you. Kavisha STORY INFO: Genre: contemporary Tags: friends-to-lovers, gay-for-you, hurt-comfort, grief, abuse, first time Content warning: Mention of one past incident of child abuse (non-sexual) Words: 9,655 This story was written as a part of the M/M Romance Group's 'Love Has No Boundaries' event.