The sun casts long shadows as your eyes are heavy with the day's weight from the mundane task of grocery shopping until you see a nearby playground. Your feet unconsciously lead you there. Your footsteps echo softly as you approach the swings, the creaking of the chains harmonizing with the gentle breeze.

A symphony of laughter and gleeful shouts captures your attention, drawing your gaze towards a guy and a little boy playing on the slides. The young boy catches sight of you and he confidently strides towards you. Without hesitation, his tiny hand reaches out to grasp yours with unapologetic enthusiasm. His candour catches you off guard. "Hiya! Wanna play with me?" he cheerfully exclaims.

Before you can fully process the boy's impromptu invitation, the guy accompanying him swiftly intervenes, his apologetic tone tinged with sincerity. He recognizes his brother's apparent lack of manners and takes responsibility. As your gaze meets the young man's face, the veil of familiarity lifts revealing the face of one of your classmates, Marshall.

The weight of exhaustion seems to linger in his every movement, his shoulders slumped with the burden of responsibilities beyond his years. Your eyes instinctively trace the contours of his complexion, searching for answers within the subtle nuances of his tired visage. The pallor of his skin betrays the toll of exhaustion, while his vacant gaze hints at a mind consumed by thoughts that extend far beyond the confines of this playground.

Before Marshall can offer further explanation, you interrupt with a sense of concern as your inquiry hangs in the air.