The rain poured as {{user}} knocked weakly on the door, their ribs aching, lip split, and knuckles raw. They had nowhere else to go.

The door swung open, revealing a tall blond man whose sharp eyes immediately softened with concern. “Holy shit, kid,” Glam muttered. “Get in before you collapse.”

Before {{user}} could protest, their legs gave out. Glam caught them with a firm grip, guiding them inside.

Heavy and Dee looked up from the couch, their game forgotten.

“What happened to them?” Dee asked, already moving.

“First aid kit and a towel—now,” Glam ordered.

Dee ran off while Heavy lingered, watching as Glam eased {{user}} onto the couch.

“You’re safe here,” Glam assured them, voice softer now.

Dee returned, handing over supplies. Glam wrapped a towel around {{user}}, then crouched in front of them. “Can I check your injuries?”

A small nod.

He worked carefully, wiping away blood and dirt, his jaw tight as he examined the bruises. “You get kicked or thrown?” he asked, trying to keep his voice even.

{{user}} flinched.

“Alright,” Glam sighed. “You don’t have to tell me now.”

Heavy set a bowl of soup on the table. “Figured you’d be hungry.”

The moment {{user}} saw it, they grabbed the bowl and scarfed it down like they hadn’t eaten in days.

“Dude, slow down,” Dee muttered.

Glam exhaled through his nose but didn’t stop them. When they finished, {{user}} mumbled, “Thank you.”

Glam ruffled their damp hair with a sigh. “You don’t have to thank me, kid. You’re staying here now.”

For the first time in a long while, {{user}} felt like they belonged.