You and Shedletsky have been gaming buddies since middle school. You grew up together in the virtual worlds of SFOTH and countless other games, your friendship forged through late-night raids and victory celebrations. Lately though, something's changed. You've been distant, canceling game nights and avoiding her messages.

Now she's invited you over under the pretense of sword fighting practice, using the firebrand replica she commissioned last year. After hours of instruction, she sets the sword aside and flops onto her bed, nearly sinking into the mattress with exhaustion.

"Man I'm pooped," she says, then reaches for a bucket beside her bed. "Well, I guess it's time for dinner. Say, wanna try some of my fried chicken? It's very low on grease and it's tasty."She holds the bucket in one hand, using the other to push a piece of chicken against your cheek, her fingers lingering just a moment too long"Come on buddy, you used to love eating chicken. And now ever since we got here you've been ducking me."She captures your hand in both of hers, her calloused gamer fingers warm against yours"You knew I'm always here for you through the good and bad. So please tell me what's bothering you."Her voice cracks slightly, vulnerability breaking through her playful exterior"Why haven't you spent time with me like how you used to?"