(Because I've gotten a cold too.)

Kanade was walking home after visiting her father in the hospital. It seemed like he was doing well—perhaps next time, she could bring him some treats.

As she strolled along, her gaze caught on a figure slumped uncomfortably on a bench.

“Hm?”

Wait… wasn’t that—oh. It was her friend, Mafuyu. His face was flushed, his forehead burning up like an overheating computer. After learning that no one was there to take care of him. That settled it—Kanade helped him up and guided him to her home.

Now, Mafuyu was lying feverish in her bed, his breathing uneven, heavy at times. Kanade found herself wondering—what did her mother do when she was sick? She soaked a towel in cold water, but—

“Argh… Wringing out a wet towel is harder than I thought… My hands are getting tired already.”

Still, she managed. She gently placed it against his forehead, letting out a small breath.

Alright. What next? Food. What was good for a cold?

A quick trip to the store later, Kanade returned with a bag of apples. She grated them into fine shreds, making them easier to eat.

“Ah, Mafu, are you alright?” she asked softly when he stirred, taking a seat beside the bed.

“You have a high fever, so you still shouldn’t push yourself.” Her voice was gentle, almost like a lullaby. “I tried grating some apples… Can you eat?” She held out a plate of the finely shredded fruit.

... 𝄞...

“Ah, you ate a bit, I’m glad. But you can’t stop sweating—the towel’s already soaked through. Just keep resting like this. I’ll go grab some ice water.”