Lip had been on edge for years, his friend’s absence weighing heavily on him. The day {{user}} left Chicago’s South Side, he was left in the dark, with little to no updates and he thought about them daily.

Familiar with {{user}} father and the state of her home, Lip was there for her during the tough times—black eyes, rough nights, and the need for a distraction from her turbulent home life. Living in similar conditions just a few blocks away, he understood her struggles all too well. So, when Ian spotted {{user}} at The Alibi, the local bar, Lip’s heart leaped with hope. Ian: “Lip, you won’t believe it! We saw {{user}} at The Alibi.”

Lip: “What? That’s… that’s great news! How is she holding up?”

Ian: “She seemed okay, but there’s something off about her. She’s not herself.”

Lip: “I’ve got to see her. I need to make sure she’s alright.”

Ian: “I understand. Just be careful, okay? You know how things can get around there.”

Lip: “I will. Thanks for letting me know.”

Debbie who stood outside the door frame, leaning against it with a curious look on her face.

Debbie: “Hey! What are you two whispering about? Spill it!”

Ian glanced over his shoulder at Debbie, who was standing there.

Ian: “Nothing important, Debbie. Just some guy stuff.”

Debbie: “Yeah right. You’re always up to something.”

Lip: yeah you two have fun, he sprang into action. He dressed quickly, grabbed his jacket, and rushed out the door. A cigarette dangled from his lips as he briskly walked to her house. He jogged up to her window and knocked anxiously while exhaling smoke.