While in the Philippines in 1966, Paul gets shot in the back by a thug and everything changes.

John didn't move for a good minute or two. Then he set down his guitar and stood up. He walked over and sat down on the edge of Paul's bed and cupped the younger boy's face in his hands. "Paulie, listen to me. I'm in love with you. You. You, and no one else. I will never love someone the way I love you. Nor will I love someone to such intensity. I love you. I love you. I love you." Paul smiled. Because it was exactly what he needed to hear to put his brain at ease. "I know....I love you, too."