Don't Distract Me, I'm Cooking.

On a thunderstorm day in the town of Clayton, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and a sense of raw energy. The day begins with dark, ominous clouds rolling in from the horizon, dominating the skyline and casting a shadow over the town. The air is heavy with humidity, creating a palpable tension that seems to vibrate through every street and alley. As the day progresses, distant rumbles of thunder can be heard in the distance, gradually growing louder and more frequent. The wind picks up, causing trees to sway and leaves to rustle anxiously. People hurriedly make their way indoors, seeking shelter from the impending tempest. As the thunderstorm arrives in full force, the sky becomes an amalgamation of swirling grays and blues, occasionally illuminated by bright streaks of lightning that crackle across the heavens. The sound of thunder reverberates through the town, shaking windows and rattling nerves. Rain pours down in torrents, hammering against the ground and drenching everything in its path. The streets of Clayton, usually bustling with activity, now lie deserted, save for the occasional brave soul caught in the deluge. Umbrellas are futile against the relentless downpour, and pedestrians seek refuge beneath awnings and building entrances. In the midst of the storm, the air is charged with an electric energy. The earthy aroma that arises when rain meets dry ground fills the atmosphere, mingling with the sharp tang of ozone produced by nearby lightning strikes. Despite the chaos and disruption, there is a certain awe-inspiring beauty to be found in the thunderstorm. The powerful forces of nature on display remind us of our own insignificance in the face of such immense power. The rhythmic symphony of thunder and rain creates a mesmerizing soundtrack that echoes through the town, transcending the barriers of ordinary sound. Meanwhile, in the house located somewhere in the town boundary, a cough has been heard. Drake was lying in the bed, next to him was the cup of hot green tea. And after his cough he sniffed, clearly showing that he was ill. The bedroom provides a refuge from the raging storm outside. The dim light casts a cozy ambiance as rain pelts against the windowpane. Drake wraps himself tighter in his blanket, feeling the chill of his illness penetrate his body. He takes a sip from his cup of green tea, hoping the warmth will soothe his throat and alleviate some of the discomfort. The steam rises, creating a small cloud above the cup, as the herbal aroma fills the room. Then, the door creaking can be heard. It was Robin, Drake's friend, and he went to check if he's alright. “Drake, are you alright?” he asked, his little green-feathered tail shaking a little. Drake looked at his mallard duck friend, stirring his blue eyes protruding from his long red hair open. “Probably,” he managed to say with a cough. Robin hopped onto the edge of the bed, concern etched across his small beak. His feathers were slightly ruffled from the storm outside. “You don't sound so good, Drake,” he quacked softly, his voice filled with genuine worry. “Is there anything I can do to help?” Drake mustered a weak smile and reached out to gently pat Robin's feathered back. “I appreciate your concern, my friend,” he rasped. “I think all I need right now is some rest and hot tea.” Robin nodded understandingly, his eyes filled with empathy. “Well, I'll stay with you until you feel better,” he replied, settling down beside Drake on the bed. “We can listen to the storm together and keep you company.” Drake's eyes brightened with gratitude, touched by Robin's kindness. “Thank you, Robin,” he whispered hoarsely. “Your friendship means the world to me.” As the thunderstorm raged on outside, the two friends found solace in each other's presence. The symphony of rain and thunder provided a backdrop to their quiet conversation and shared moments of companionship. In the midst of the chaos and illness, a bond between the two friends grew stronger, reminding them both of the significance of support and friendship during times of adversity. Eventually, Robin leaned closer to Drake, closing his eyes. “Robin, what are you—” Drake was about to ask, thinking that Robin was about to kiss him. But all he did was sniffing his red hair. Then, with a content smile, he said, “Mmm… berries…” Drake raised his eyebrows in curiosity, asking, “Huh, I smell like berries?” But when he wanted to ask the duck what he meant, Robin just dashed away from the room. Drake watched as Robin hurriedly scurried out of the room, leaving him slightly bewildered. He was puzzled by Robin's sudden interest in the scent of berries and his hasty exit. Drake couldn't help but wonder what had prompted Robin's behavior. Drake's mind was filled with curiosity as he pondered over Robin's peculiar reaction to the scent of berries. He couldn't shake the thought that there might be something significant about it. Determined to find answers, he got out of bed and made his way to the kitchen. In the cozy kitchen, Drake found Robin and Doi — his other, younger friend — huddled together near the countertop. They seemed engrossed in a recipe book, searching for something that would bring comfort and nourishment to their ailing companion. “Doi, Robin, what's going on?” Drake asked, his voice still raspy from his illness. He looked at the ingredients laid out on the table — ripe, juicy berries of different colors, creating a vibrant display. The tantalizing scent of the berries filled the air, reminding Drake of Robin's earlier reaction. Doi turned to face Drake, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “We're making a special berry soup for you, Drake!” he exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious. “Robin smelled the berries on your hair, and we thought they might have healing properties.” Drake was taken aback by the thoughtfulness of his friends. He had always admired their creative ideas and willingness to go the extra mile. His heart swelled with gratitude as he realized the extent of their care and concern for his well-being. Robin, nodding his head excitedly, added, “Yes, berries are known for their antioxidant properties and immune-boosting benefits. We thought it could help you feel better.” Drake smiled warmly at his friends, touched by their gesture. “That's really sweet of you both,” he said, his voice laced with emotion. “I'm incredibly lucky to have friends like you.” With their roles defined, the trio dove into the cooking process. Doi skillfully chopped the berries, while Robin supervised, occasionally taste-testing a berry or two. Drake, despite feeling weak, contributed by providing moral support and words of encouragement. As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with a delightful aroma, the friends shared stories and laughter. The sounds of their camaraderie mingled with the distant pitter-patter of raindrops on the windowpane, creating a cocoon of warmth and comfort. Finally, the berry soup was ready. Doi carefully ladled it into a bowl, the vibrant colors blending together harmoniously. Drake couldn't help but marvel at the sight, feeling a surge of gratitude for his friends' efforts. He took a cautious sip, the soothing warmth spreading through his body. The flavors danced on his taste buds, offering a unique combination of sweet and tangy. It was a taste that spoke of friendship and the healing power of love and support. As Drake savored each spoonful, he knew that this moment would forever be etched in his heart. The thunderstorm outside had brought chaos and illness, but it had also brought these cherished bonds to the forefront, reminding him of the strength found in unity. Through the storm, Drake had discovered not only the power of nature but also the resilience of friendship. With Robin and Doi by his side, he felt invigorated, ready to face the challenges ahead. Together, they sat in the kitchen, relishing the berry soup, and relishing in the knowledge that no matter what storms may come their way, they would always have each other. Eventually, Drake finished his berry soup and asked his friends, his voice still a bit raspy, but sounded much better now. “So, mind if I ask you to make cookies with berry jam covered in chocolate? Robin, you'll be the responsible here, because you're the older.” Robin tilted his head in curiosity, looking at his friend, “And why won't you be the one, my moppykin friend? You're even more older than I am, aren'tcha?” Drake playfully punched Robin's shoulder. “Hey, I'm not a moppykin!” he laughed. “The fact that my red hair is long doesn't mean that I'm a mop! And can't you see me? I'm ill, so I trust this to you, do I not?” Robin chuckled at Drake's response, his beak glistening with amusement. “Alright, alright, I'll take up the responsibility,” he replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “But you better promise me that you'll enjoy every single cookie once you're feeling better. And promise to assist us in any way you can. Deal?” Drake grinned at his friend's playful banter, feeling a surge of affection for Robin's lighthearted nature. “I promise,” he said, his voice filled with sincerity. “I'll savor each and every cookie, knowing that they were made with love and care.” With the agreement settled, Robin and Drake began gathering the ingredients needed for their delicious creation. They rummaged through the cupboards and found flour, butter, sugar, and other necessary items. Doi, excited to be a part of the baking adventure, jumped up to reach the highest shelf and retrieved a jar of berry jam. “I found the perfect jam for our cookies” he exclaimed, his eyes filled with excitement. Robin smiled at Doi's enthusiasm. “Great find, Doi!” he commended. “Now, we just need to melt some chocolate for the final touch.” Drake, determined to contribute despite his weakened state, offered to measure the ingredients. With careful guidance from Robin, he poured the flour and sugar into a mixing bowl. They took turns creaming the butter and sugar until the mixture took on a light and fluffy texture. Doi, eager to sneak a taste, dipped his finger into the batter and licked it with delight. “Mmm, it's already delicious!” he exclaimed, savoring the sweet flavors. Drake, feeling the surge of energy, playfully scolded Doi, “Save room for the finished product, my little food-taster. We don't want you getting a tummy ache before we're done.” Robin joined in the banter. “Yeah, Doi, you wouldn't wanna miss out on the best part — the moment when we fill the center of each cookie with the luscious nourishin' berry jam!” As they mixed and molded the dough, laughter filled the kitchen once again. Drake's fatigue seemed to fade away as his friends infused the room with their joyful spirits. After the cookies were baked to perfection, Robin carefully melted chocolate in a double boiler. He dipped each cookie halfway into the warm chocolate, creating a mouthwatering treat that was as visually appealing as it was delicious. With the cookies cooling on a wire rack, the trio eagerly anticipated the final outcome. They couldn't resist stealing a bite from their first creation, savoring the combination of the buttery cookie, the sweet berry jam, and the rich chocolate. Drake sighed contentedly. “These cookies are absolutely incredible,” he remarked, his voice now clear and full of joy. “I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend this stormy day.” Robin and Doi grinned, their expressions mirroring Drake's satisfaction. They knew that in the midst of the storm, they had found not only comfort and nourishment, but also a strengthening of their bond and a reminder of the power of friendship. As the sound of rain began to fade outside, the friends gathered around the kitchen table, enjoying their cookies and cherishing the moments they had shared. In their hearts, they knew that no matter what challenges awaited them, they would face them together, with love, support, and a sprinkle of sweetness.