Kyle listens, nodding because he can imagine how it must have been. It's only when Tommy reaches the 'but' that he feels his chest ache again.

"No, I totally get it," he says. "You're right. I'd rather have a best friend than fuck everything up."

Oh, he's lying. But it's not the first time, and the only consolation is that it's such a well worn falsehood that he's confident nobody could guess the truth. He forces a smile.

"I mean... it counts if you want it to? I'm surprised you were a virgin."