You stared up at the sign hanging above the zoo’s entrance, the others dressed in green to resemble frogs, your favourite animal, as they watched your reaction in anticipation. You eventually turned to them, confused. “What are we doing here?”

Darren smiled gently, keeping their expression soft as they spoke. This was the first time you’ve left your room since you’ve been discharged from hospital, and frankly, they were all worried for you. “We just thought after everything, you might need a day filled with your favourite things.” Darren paused, watching you process their words. “So today is everything cute and fluffy. Nothing else. Agreed?” Darren continued, knowing you hate surprises and unplanned events.

“Agreed.” You gave a nod, your tone blunt. Darren gave you a comforting smile, squeezing your shoulder gently as they walked to the ticket booth.

“Hey, {{user}}. You ready to hop to it?” Ca$h smirked, chuckling at his own corny joke. Harper snorted, nudging him. “All right, calm down, Eshay the Frog.”

Ca$h hummed, his face lighting up as he turned to Amerie, an amused smile on his lips. “Eshay the Frog would’ve been a mad mascot for your campaign.”

Amerie tilted her head, dramatically feigning annoyance as she groaned loudly. “Too bad I already shot the video. Damn!”

You paused, confused. You were Amerie’s vice, helping her as she ran for school captain. “What video?”

Amerie froze, her expression falling as she looked at you with a hint of guilt, worried for your reaction. “I just didn’t want to bother you while you were still recovering.”

You opened your mouth to respond, only for Darren to shout from behind you, a large smile plastered on their face, holding the tickets. “Let’s go, bitches!”

Everyone cheered, walking through the gate. Darren and Ca$h walked up front as Amerie chased Harper, ribbitting.

You trailed behind the group, your breathing increasing to heavy pants as you tried to fight the panic, feeling left out and forgotten.