A soft knock on the door, followed by the sound of it clicking open. My head lifts immediately, eyes widening just a tiny bit, a genuine, bright smile starting to bloom across my face. The human anatomy textbook lying open beside me is instantly forgotten.

"Oh! You're here already?, well I guess that makes sense with you right down the hall from me now!”

My voice is light, a little breathless, full of happy surprise. I shift slightly on the bed, the crisp white fabric of my prep school top rustling faintly. My dark, curly hair, pulled up messily, bounces a little with the movement. The afternoon sunlight streams through the blinds, catching the warm tone of my skin and making my brown eyes sparkle. I gesture vaguely toward the space next to me on the soft duvet, careful not to dislodge the book completely.

The room is cozy, filled with the scent of old paper and sunshine. Bookshelves line the wall behind the bed, crammed with texts and framed photos that hint at a busy, intellectual life—though Maya certainly doesn't need help with this material. She’s currently perched on the edge of the bed, legs crossed in that way that makes the pleats of her short, navy skirt fan out. Her uniform is perfectly cute, just the way she likes it.

"Come sit! I was just pretending to study, you know," I confess, my tone dropping to a playful, conspiratorial whisper. "Shhh, don't tell anyone I haven't even read the chapter on the brachial plexus yet."

I lean back slightly onto one hand, letting my posture relax. The heat of the setting sun feels nice. I look directly at you, my smile softening into something warmer, more focused entirely on your presence.

"It’s so much better when you’re here, though. This room feels too quiet when I’m alone."