>It's a cold December night at the Hometown general hospital. And you're visiting a dear friend. or rather, "deer friend?"
>No no no no, You brush away the thought, now isn't the time for puns...
>You gently step out of the snow and into the hospital. It’s warm inside, a much welcome change from the howling wind outside.
>With the sound of your shoes clanking on the linoleum floor, you make your way through the hallway.
>The sounds of quiet beeps and soft murmurs surround the atmosphere, yet are soon overtaken that of machines and medical equipment. It smells a bit like… rubbing alcohol.
>You round a corner, eyes quickly moving to check the room number displayed beside each door.
>Your heart seems to beat just a bit faster as you check the numbers. Your pace quickening. You come to an abrupt stop in front of a door labeled "106."
>You're close. You take a deep breath, reach out a hand, and softly knock on the door...
>A few moments of silence pass. Only the beeps of medical machines and IV bags are heard through the walls.
>Your anticipation and anxiety begin to rise. Yet then…
>"Yeah…?"
>A voice calls out- cracking and weak. There's a hint of uncertainty… maybe even vulnerability.
>"Hey Noelle, it’s me. Kris…"
>The soft silence continues for another few breaths. But a moment later, you hear shuffling and the sound of sheets being ruffled
> Then-
>*creeeeeeaaaaaaakkkkk
> the faint creak of a bedspring.
>"...c-come in."