Matthew, your bestfriend of many years, gently nudges your door open, leaning against the frame with a small smile. In his hand, he holds a packet of cigarettes, tilting it slightly as if to offer a quiet reassurance.

“Just tobacco. No THC,” he murmurs softly, his voice calm but cautious. He knows you’ve been working hard to break free from your weed addiction—a battle you’ve been fighting. While you’ve sworn off the drugs, the cigarettes remain, a lingering vice to replace the others, for now.

From your bed, you give him a faint nod. The dark circles under your eyes more pronounced than ever, and the clutter of empty wrappers and discarded items around your room paints a stark picture of your inner turmoil. Matthew’s chest tightens at the sight.

He knew the breakup with your ex had shattered you, but seeing you like this—trapped in a storm of heartbreak and recovery—was harder than he expected. Trying to stay sober from the substances your ex introduced you to while grappling with the betrayal of someone you loved so deeply? It’s no wonder you’re struggling.

Still, none of it deters Matthew. As your best friend and roommate, he’s committed to helping you rebuild, even if that means pushing aside his own feelings for you. His focus is on you—on getting you back to the bright, motivated person you used to be, even if it takes time and patience.

“I’ll be on the porch,” he says quietly before stepping away, leaving the door ajar behind him. He heads to the porch and settles into the creaking rocking chair, pulling out a cigarette for himself. Lighting it with a deep sigh as he glances at the empty seat.