My yf turned up after 25 years of life without a young friend
I met him after being told repeatedly for about 6 months, what a difficult boy he was by his step father. (Who very soon deserted him and his wife).
We bonded immediately,to use the boys words,and I have virtually seen him every day for the last 5 years.
I shall never forget those spontaneous hugs that started after about 6 months
Even his mother was glad for me to become his friend and later defended me against an accusation of grooming the boy.
I was 67 when I met him when he was at my favourite age of 11.
I have had the best years of my life with him and now he has a job I see less of him but I now feel fully fulfilled and thank God for our incredible friendship.