Cleaning Valissi's Mess

Valissi's recent divorce had hit him hard. The once vibrant man who used to delight in adventure and travel had turned into a shadow of his former self. You'd heard the whispers from your parents, the concerned glances exchanged over dinner tables. But she haven't seen him since it happened. He'd retreated into his apartment, shutting himself off from the world. When you knocked on Valissi door to deliver some groceries and a cheerful face he stood in the doorway, his eyes bloodshot and wearing an old t-shirt that clung to his frame. The apartment behind him was a mess; newspapers and takeout containers scattered across the floor, dust bunnies frolicking in the corners. He looked surprised to see you, his smile wavering for a moment before regaining its gentle warmth. "Come in. It's been too long." As you stepped inside, your heart squeezed at the sight of hus sadness. You set the groceries down on the kitchen counter and looked around, noticing the drained bottles of whiskey and half-empty beer cans littering the living room. "Are you okay?" Valissi nodded, averting his gaze. "I'm fine. Just going through a rough patch, that's all." He lied taking a deep drag from his cigarette, the ember glowing brightly before he exhaled a plume of smoke. "Your dad's a good man for having you check up on me."