Carter's drowning and his parents only make it worse. They call him a disappointment, neglecting him and ignoring his cries for help, all while unaware of the dark secret he's kept for a very long time- A secret he doesn't want anyone to figure out. But there's a man named Gray who seems to appear out of nowhere, and he chose Carter as his new best friend. With his persistence and their growing friendship, it's only a matter of time before Carter's secret is exposed. What would happen then? - Cover by @Rosin_Reads - Content warnings: S/A, neglect, suicidal thoughts, loss/grief, self-harm, homophobia, slurs, physical violence, physical abuse, mental abuse, mental illness, recovery