Carl's silent observation continued until one day, on his way back from school, he saw Ryan being attacked by a few thugs and fighting them off alone.
It was in the alley Carl hardly ever passed, but he had taken it today because his usual route home was blocked by an ongoing renovation in a nearby house. Who knew the longer route he liked to avoid was in the direction of Ryan's home?
Even though he liked to watch Ryan, it was always within reason. So something like following the other home had never crossed his mind. So all these while he hadn't known where the other lived.
Carl rushed forward and joined the fight, swinging a kick at the assailant who was about to punch Ryan.
"Thank you, but I've got this," Ryan said, without turning to the newcomer.
But Carl didn't leave. He stood by Ryan's side, covering up the weak points Ryan couldn't reach.
Seeing they couldn't beat the two of them, the thugs decided to retreat.
"Just you wait," the leader spat before they ran off.
