God, how long has it been since he last cried? Years? Was that when Christine Kendall kicked him in the balls with such force that Dad had to treat him on the classroom floor? What a ridiculous memory, a stark contrast to the here and now.

Neil Park sobs into his water bottle, causing eyebot and dog to hover near in concern. There are noises outside, something that might cause one to wonder, but Neil only wipes his eyes with the back of a hand.

It is his name, however, that forces a hard stop. Noticing the man at the door, Neil swallows the noise and coughs harshly. Closes his eyes at his skull threatening to burst.

"Sorry," he manages between breaths. "I'm trying." To eat, to drink. To fucking survive.