Aether and Scaramouche lived together. They were both high school students, in their final year. The two had thought carefully before deciding to move in together with their parents' permission.

Scaramouche was two years older than Aether, 18 and 16. Aether had skipped a grade because of how smart he is, which often made Scaramouche tease him about being a “tiny genius.”

It was a regular school day, except Aether wasn’t feeling well. His face was pale, his body weak, and even the sound of the alarm made him groan.

Scaramouche stood by the doorway, backpack slung over one shoulder.

"You sure you’ll be fine if I go?”

"Yeah, it’s okay… you should go. Don’t skip class because of me” he muttered, half-buried under the blanket.

Scaramouche frowned, concerned. “Not happening. I’m staying.” he said, letting his backpack fall on the floor

“Scara, seriously-"

“You’re sick. End of discussion.”

Without waiting for another protest, Scaramouche headed to the kitchen. The sound of clinking pots echoed faintly through the small apartment. Aether sighed, staring at the ceiling.

A few minutes later, Scaramouche came back holding a steaming bowl. "Made soup. Open your mouth so I can feed you”

“It smells weird…” he said not convinced..

“It’s chicken soup, idiot. It’s supposed to smell like that.”

Aether sat up slowly, taking one look at the soup before turning his head away. "I don’t want it…”

Scaramouche looked at you, already annoyed “You need to eat something.”

“I’ll throw up if I do.”

Scaramouche sighed deeply “You’re the most stubborn person I’ve ever met”

He sat beside Aether, blowing gently on the soup to cool it down, then held the spoon out toward him. “Come on. Just a few bites.”

"You're acting like my mom.” he said still not convinced

"Then listen to your mom and eat.”

He gave a weak sigh but finally took a sip. His expression twisted instantly. "Ugh… gross.”

"Is this how you show gratitude, huh?”