The next day, as the school bell rang and students started filling the halls, Ammy, Mando, Sam, and Lily arrived together, still buzzing with excitement about their visit to Kiddy's home over the weekend.
"Man, Kiddy's place is amazing," Mando said, still impressed. "And that swing in the backyard? I can't stop thinking about it."
Sam nodded in agreement. "And the snacks! His mom really knows how to take care of us. It was a great study session."
Lily added, "Yeah, and we actually got a lot of work done. I feel more prepared for the exams now."
Ammy smiled, recalling how the day had ended with her dad inviting Kiddy in. "Kiddy's mom and dad are really nice. They made everything feel so comfortable."
As they reached their classroom, the group naturally expected to see Kiddy already there, probably in his usual spot. But as they looked around, they noticed something unusual—Kiddy's desk was empty.
"Where's Kiddy?" Lily asked, glancing around as if he might just pop up somewhere.
Mando frowned. "He's usually here before any of us. Did anyone get a message from him?"
Ammy checked her phone, but there was nothing from Kiddy. "Nope, nothing here."
They exchanged concerned glances, unsure of what to make of his absence. It wasn't like Kiddy to miss school, especially with exams coming up.
"Hmm.. thats unusual" Sam said quietly, voicing what they were all thinking.
Ammy nodded, her thoughts drifting to Kiddy. She had seen him just last night, and everything had seemed fine. But now, with him missing, a small worry started to gnaw at her.
"Let's try to focus on class for now," Ammy suggested, trying to keep everyone calm. "We'll check in with him later, see if he's alright."
As the day progressed, the group gradually shifted their focus back to their studies. With exams looming. Sam, Mando, and Lily threw themselves into their work, soon pushing their concerns about Kiddy to the back of their minds.
But for Ammy, it wasn't so easy. While she managed to concentrate on her lessons, a small part of her remained unsettled. She couldn't help but wonder if something was wrong with Kiddy. It wasn't like him to skip school without saying anything.
As the final bell rang and everyone began packing up to leave, Ammy made a decision to check out on Kiddy as their home was near each other's.
"Hey, Ammy, you coming with us?" Lily asked as they gathered their things.
Ammy shook her head. "I think I'm going to stop by Kiddy's house."
Mando nodded. "That's a good idea. Let us know if everything's alright."
"I will," Ammy promised, slinging her bag over her shoulder.
As her friends headed home, Ammy started making her way to Kiddy's house.
When she finally reached Kiddy's house, she hesitated for a moment at the door before knocking.
When Ammy knocked on the door, it wasn't long before it opened to reveal Daisy Edward, Kiddy's mom. Her warm smile was still there, but Ammy could see a hint of tiredness in her eyes.
"Hi, Mrs. Edward," Ammy greeted politely. "I was just checking on Kiddy. He didn't come to school today, and we were all a little worried."
Daisy's smile softened. "Oh, that's so thoughtful of you, Ammy. Come on in."
Ammy stepped inside, instantly feeling the comforting warmth of the house. The place looked just as it had over the weekend, but there was a quietness that made the space feel different.
"Kiddy's upstairs resting," Daisy explained as she led Ammy into the living room. "He came down with a high fever last night. It must've hit him out of nowhere. I kept him home today to let him rest."
Ammy felt a wave of concern wash over her, but before she could dwell on it too much, Daisy added, "Don't worry, though. He's already starting to feel a little better. I'm sure he'll be back to his usual self by tomorrow."
Hearing that gave Ammy a sense of relief, and she let out a small sigh. "I'm glad to hear that. We were all worried when he didn't show up today."
Daisy nodded, understanding. "He'll appreciate that you checked in on him. I'll let him know you came by."
"Thanks, Mrs. Edward," Ammy said, feeling reassured. "I should get going, but I'll let the others know he's okay."
Daisy walked her to the door, giving her a gentle pat on the shoulder. "Take care, Ammy. And thanks again for looking out for Kiddy."
Ammy smiled and waved goodbye as she left, her steps lighter now that she knew Kiddy would be alright. As soon as she was outside, she pulled out her phone and quickly sent a message to the group:
Ammy:"Just checked on Kiddy. He's got a fever but nothing serious. Mrs. Edward says he'll be fine by tomorrow."
After sending the message, she tucked her phone away and made her way home, feeling relieved.