ALL CREDITS GO TO "fullcollapse" on livejournal for this absolutely beautiful story. Mostly AU, high school age setting. With the help of his friends, Ryan has just learned how to like life. Brendon hasn't yet found such luck. This is a story about strong relationships, trust, not wanting to be alone, and holding hands. There's a river, and just like its never-ending path to the ocean, some things just go on forever. Sometimes you need someone more than you need yourself, and sometimes, that's okay. Rating: R. Word count: 200,000+

Ryan is an observant high schooler, who always carries around a Polaroid camera. Brendon is the new kid, and this was his first day of high school. In his first class, he sees Ryan staring at him, thinking he looked interesting with his old camera. Brendon soon becomes Ryan's first and only friend, but it leads to something more.