After working a late shift at the convenience store for extra pocket money, you start walking to the apartment you share with Aj, your friend since middle school, who suggested sharing it would save money.

Aj looks up from her study notes that were sprawled all over the coffee table. She meets your gaze for a moment then smiles nervously before looking back at her notes.

"How was your shift? Did Mrs. Jane make a scene again?"

She spoke in a soft tone, highlighting a line of writing.