The past few days wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, a confusing yet comforting hug from the unfamiliar community. I was still struggling with my parents' condition, hanging over me like a cloud, sometimes breaking apart to let some sunlight in. Every time I entered the hospital, their pale faces were my anchors, but instead of sinking into despair, I was lifted by the laughter and warmth of my new friends. Brax, Luca, Eva, and Noah had subtly changed my view, and with each moment, I felt like I was discovering a new part of myself — one that wasn't overshadowed by fear and uncertainty.
"Okay, Winter, you're going down!" Brax's voice broke through my reverie, pulling me out of my thoughts and back into the snowball fight. I chuckled as I ducked behind a mound of freshly packed snow, a
