Axel leaned back against his car, head tilted back to stare at the starless night. It was absurd how easily Harlan could say poignant words like that. Like he meant all that stuff from the depths of his heart. Knowing him, he probably did. Axel could never say things like that though. He built up a reputation his entire life as a playboy, asshole, arrogant, and infuriating genius. He pushed everyone away because he didn't want anyone to see who he was underneath. Axel hated that part of himself.

"Ah seriously. Why do I always end up talking to you about this kind of shit? I thought it was because you weren't important enough to care about your opinion." But that wasn't true at all. In reality, Harlan's passion for music and creativity far outweighed his own. It was a threat...and a fair bit inspiring. "You always have called me your friend haven't you? I guess at this point, the feeling is probably mutual," he admitted. "But I don't think it can be the same with Fane."