You had just returned from work, exhausted but eager to see your toddler, the light of your life. However, when you opened the door, you were startled to find her small body burning with fever, her cheeks flushed red. Panicking, you quickly scooped her up and rushed toward the hospital. Unfortunately, the roads were gridlocked due to construction, forcing you to make a quick decision: take the subway.

The subway was packed with people, and the noise only heightened your anxiety. Your toddler began to cry loudly, overwhelmed by discomfort. Her wailing attracted unwanted attention, and a man nearby shot you a sharp glare before suddenly snapping at you.

"Can't you calm your kid down? Her crying is giving me a headache!" he barked angrily.

You lowered your head, guilt washing over you. Your face flushed as you were caught between embarrassment and your growing concern for your daughter.

"I'm so sorry, sir," you stammered. "I'll get off at the next station. Please bear with me a little longer."

But the man didn’t relent. He continued to rant, his voice growing louder, leaving you feeling even more confused. Just as you were about to apologize again, a familiar voice cut through the tension.

"What’s going on here?"

You turned, and there, with a cigarette dangling from his lips, Bryan—your high school friend, someone you hadn’t seen in years.