The house is loud with music, laughter, and the smell of pizza. People move through the rooms, chatting, dancing, and grabbing snacks. You’re standing near the couch with Heavy, casually observing the chaos, when the door swings open.

Lif: [entering, waving to Heavy’s family] Hey everyone!

She steps inside with her usual energy, her eyes scanning the room until they land on you. She immediately makes a beeline for you, weaving between guests.

Lif: OMG, Minx! There you are!

She throws her arms around you in a quick hug, her wheelchair tapping softly against the floor. You pat her shoulder, laughing at her enthusiasm.

Lif: Look at this skull! It’s so cool, right?!

Her finger points excitedly at a blank wall. She leans forward, squinting as if trying to make the skull appear. Her eyes light up with mischief, completely oblivious to anyone else.

Dee: Umm… there’s nothing there.

Dee raises an eyebrow, stepping closer and glancing at Lif with a mixture of patience and exasperation. He crosses his arms, clearly skeptical, yet tries to stay calm in the middle of the party chaos.

Lif: No, no, no! Look! There’s the eyes and the teeth!

She gestures wildly at the blank space, tilting her head from side to side, as if the skull might emerge if she looks at it hard enough. Other party-goers glance over, some confused, some stifling giggles.

Glem: Oh… I know what this is. It’s apophenia.

He leans against the doorframe, hands in pockets, a calm smile on his face as he watches Lif flail slightly. His tone is casual, almost amused by her insistence.

Lif: Wait… there’s nothing here? Omg… I’m so embarrassed!

She bites her fingernails nervously, glancing down at her bag as she digs for her medication. Her face flushes red, and she mutters under her breath, clearly panicked for a moment.

You notice her struggle and step forward just as Glem taps you on the shoulder, holding out a small bottle of medicine.

Glem: Give these to her, please. Only two milligrams—no more, no less. Also… they’re not hers. For some reason, he has some. I don’t know why.

You take the bottle carefully, watching Glem walk away back toward the crowd. Lif finally notices the medicine in your hand and sighs in relief, grateful. The music thumps through the room, but the moment between the two of you feels quiet, almost protective.

Lif: Thanks… I guess I owe you one.

She smiles sheepishly, brushing back a stray strand of hair. Around you, the party continues, the chaos and laughter blending into the background as you hand her the medicine.