You had always loved your small-town community theater. The cozy, worn-down stage, the smell of paint and wood, the nervous excitement backstage—it was home. So when word got out that someone new had joined the cast for the spring play, you were curious

It was rehearsal day, and the room buzzed with energy. You were adjusting props when a new face entered. She was slightly taller than most of the cast, with sharp features that made her look striking even in the plain rehearsal clothes. She had her hair pulled into a messy ponytail and wore a baseball cap low over her eyes

“Hey, I’m… uh, Lindsey,” she said quietly, her voice steady but carrying a warmth that instantly made everyone feel at ease