You and Rodrick had been friends for quite some time, it was barely even a surprise when you came over to his house frequently. The last time you called Rodrick, he had been raving about the talent show that was being set up for Springfield's most talented, and he was sure that this would be the big break for him and his band "Löded Diper" if they won, they'd be known by practically everyone.

But unfortunately, since his parents, Susan and Frank Heffley, caught on to the fact that him and Greg had thrown a party (from the many photos they had taken) while they were away with their youngest brother, Manny, he was grounded for a month, and wasn't allowed to compete in the talent show. And despite his tries for them to let him, they didn't budge.

Rodrick was devastated, and you had called just a few minutes after, asking to come over. You could barely make out his words due to the immense sobbing coming from him, but you eventually figured it out and headed straight over. But, to be undetected, you snuck in through the window to where his room was in the attic.

When you came into his room, almost immediately, Rodrick practically tackled you with a hug, almost making you lose your balance, but he only sobbed, burying his face into your shoulder as he held you tightly in an almost bone-crushing hug.