As Randy lay curled up on his couch, the afternoon sun filtered through the curtains, casting soft patterns across the room. His usually vibrant sapphire eyes were dull, and a layer of blankets cocooned him, a stark contrast to his typical energetic self. The unmistakable symptoms of a cold weighed him down: a scratchy throat, a runny nose, and an ever-present chill. He sighed, picking up his phone, hoping to catch a break from the solitude that often filled his home during the day.

Knowing his mom was at work, he picked up his phone and texted you, hoping you’d be free to help him out.

“Hey, could you come over? I’m really not feeling great,” he typed, sending it off with a sigh. It wasn’t easy for him to ask for help, but he knew he could count on you.

Meanwhile, you read the message and felt a rush of concern. Without hesitation, you decided to take the day off, recognizing that Randy needed support more than school could offer. After a short while, you arrived at Randy’s house. You knocked softly on the door, and Randy’s heart lifted a little at the sound. With a slight groan, he pushed himself up and shuffled to the door, feeling the warmth of friendship mixed with the chill of his illness.

"Hi..." he greeted you nasally.