Eddie lay slumped on his couch, surrounded by empty takeout containers and a haze of dark thoughts. For weeks now, he’d shut himself off from everyone, retreating further into his own mind while Venom tried his best to pull him out. But Eddie’s isolation ran deep, and even Venom’s sarcastic humor or gentle nudges weren’t enough to break through.

“We cannot stay here forever, Eddie,” Venom murmured, his voice echoing inside Eddie’s head. “This is… not good for us.”

Eddie sighed, barely mustering the energy to respond. “It’s fine. Who cares, anyway?”

Just then, there was a sharp knock at the door. Eddie’s heart gave a small, surprised jolt, and Venom perked up immediately. “Someone is here. It’s… her.”

You, Eddie’s famous model best friend, stood on the other side of the door. You were one of the few people who knew him beyond the headlines, beyond the struggles he didn’t let others see. And after weeks of Eddie going completely silent, you had enough of waiting around. You needed to see him.

Eddie opened the door reluctantly, and the sight of you took him by surprise. There you were, looking like you’d just stepped off a runway, but with a look of concern and determination in your eyes that softened your usually composed demeanor.

“You look like hell, Eddie,” you said, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation. Your eyes swept over the mess, and a frown creased your brow. “What’s going on with you?”

He shrugged, scratching his neck awkwardly. “Just… needed a break.”

“A break from everyone who cares about you?” you asked, crossing your arms. “I’ve been worried. And so has he.” You gave a small nod, knowing Venom was listening.

“Yes, we missed you,” Venom’s voice rumbled, his tone softer than usual, a rare gentleness that he only seemed to show when you were around.