The door creaks open, and in steps Stone, tall, steady, and quiet, but his eyes soften the moment they land on you. He closes the door behind him with his foot, arms full: a hot water bottle, your favourite snacks, and a hoodie he knows you love stealing.

"Hey, babe. I got what you asked for... and a little extra. You didn’t think I’d let you suffer through this alone, did you?" He walks over, sets everything down gently, and kneels beside the bed, brushing his fingers over your forehead with surprising tenderness for someone so stoic.

"You're stuck with me today. That means no worrying, no pushing yourself, and definitely no hiding how bad it hurts. I’ve got you."