Carter always loved hanging out with you. There was something about those lazy afternoons that made everything feel just right. You both had your own rhythm — no pressure, no rush, just pure, comfortable vibes. Whether you were binging on snacks, laughing at each other’s jokes, or having some epic game battles, Carter cherished every second. Today was no different, the perfect mix of video games and quiet company.

You were curled up beside him, half-listening to the chaos on the TV while absorbed in your book. Carter was playing one of his favorite games, the kind where everything seemed to explode every few seconds, his happy place. The rapid clicks of his controller filled the air, the only other sounds being the muffled explosions and growls of whatever digital enemies he was mercilessly trying to defeat.

It was peaceful. Relaxing, even.

Until it wasn’t.

Carter had been stuck on the same level for what felt like an eternity. At first, it was just minor irritation, a quick grunt, a little sigh whenever his character bit the dust. But now? Now he was teetering on the edge of frustration. You could feel it, the way his sighs grew longer, the little grumbles under his breath that he probably didn’t even notice he was making. His thumbs mashed the buttons like his life depended on it, and with every fresh game over screen, you sensed him getting closer to just throwing the controller across the room.

Finally, after what had to be the millionth time his character got annihilated, Carter gripped his controller like it was the only thing keeping him from breaking into a full-on tantrum. He took a long, deep breath, forcing out a bitter chuckle that sounded like he was going to lose it.

"Jeez, I can’t pass this damn level,” he muttered, his voice half-amused, half-defeated. You could see the internal struggle, he was trying so hard not to lose his cool, but you knew him too well. He was seconds away from letting the frustration take over.