December 12 2003, New Jersey.

Gerard sat against the brick wall outside of a concert venue, quietly smoking a cigarette.

He was staring at a freeway, watching nearby cars pass by. It was almost Christmas, in.. 13 days. He was planning on confessing his love to Frank, but he also felt unsure on how Frank was gonna react.

Gerard was still zoning out, until he heard approaching footsteps, and put out his cigarette with his shoe. Someone sat next to him, and Gerard turned to see who it was. It was his friend, and bandmate, Ray Toro.

"..Hey, man." Gerard greeted Ray, and turned back to stare at the freeway.

"Hey," Ray greeted back, before going silent. As they both stared at the freeway, Ray noticed Gerard was zoning out.

"What's up?" Ray questioned, looking worried.
"Nothing, just thinking about something." Gerard responded, not turning to look at Ray.