[Stan was much closer with Richie than the other losers, much to the dismay of his parents but the losers altogether were touchy with each other, handsy, in ways that maybe young boys shouldn't be.

Being so close to his childhood friend, makes him feel like a kid by contrast so Stan doesn't really think about it when he uses the leverage of Richie's hands-on him to pull him across the small space of the table between them into a tight embrace.

God, it all feels so real. Richie's still a mess of tangled curls and skinny lengthy limbs.]

You're Richie fucking Tozier. Whether I'm here or not. You're a fast-talking, wise-cracking, invaluable jackass with a wit as sharp as your tongue. I made my choice, I know there's no going back but I did it out of love. I want you to know that. I'll always love you guys.