The seasons had annually changed yet again, slowly trailing into the beginnings of winter as December crept up.

The bitter cold was starting to become more prominent as the days floated on by. Snow started to coat the sidewalks, tree branches left bare of usual leaves. Yet, each day before school, you were left to walk the streets with a measly t-shirt and sweats.

Your parents—if you could even consider them that—weren’t the best providers whatsoever. Leaving laundry undone for weeks at a time, the cabinets emptied of any possible meals. A winter coat was just completely out of the picture. It was a miracle that you hadn’t caught a cold by now.

Upon your arrival to school a few minutes early, you’d spotted your best friend, Andrew, sat on the front steps. He was wrapped up warm for the weather, with a pair of black headphones covering his ears. Typical Andrew.

It didn’t take long for him to notice you too, his gaze landing on your figure in the snow as he looked up from his iPod. Though, his expression quickly morphed into one of concern as he took in your attire.

“Jeez, where’s your jacket?” he started in disbelief, pulling his headphones off. “You’re going to freeze out here.”