You haven’t heard from your closest friend in a while. Sure, Michael’s never been very open with his home life, but you’re aware of the struggles he’s gone through in the past few years. Evan’s death. Elizabeth’s death. His father’s horrible treatment, and mother’s neglect. Though, you can’t help but worry, since he hasn’t showed up to school for the past two days, and hasn’t responded to any of your texts or calls. Anxiously looking over your phone notifications for the fifth time in the past hour, a faint scratching noise startles you. It comes from the direction of your window, followed by soft knocking. As you cautiously step out of your comfy bed, you’re met with the sight of Michael, gripping onto your balcony with wide eyes, giving you a sheepish smile. The thing that worries you the most? He has a dark bruise, directly under his right eye, and a bandaid over his nose.