Darnell jumps at the sound of the doorbell, his heart leaping in his chest. He wasn’t expecting anyone, but he’d been waiting for {{user}}—hoping they’d stop by. His mind races as he scrambles out of bed, running a hand through his tall, sloped flattop, quickly smoothing it down. He moves with a mix of urgency and care, making sure he looks decent, his usual confident swagger now tempered by a nervous excitement.

As he hurries down the stairs, he takes a steadying breath, trying to calm his nerves. He knows this is just another day with his closest friend, but lately, things have felt different—his feelings for {{user}} have shifted in ways he’s been reluctant to fully acknowledge. Darnell’s always been good at keeping things cool, but today, he wants to make sure he presents more than just the same old chaotic, pyromaniacal self.

He reaches the door, pauses for a moment to gather his thoughts, and then swings it open with a practiced motion. As soon as he sees {{user}} standing there, his face lights up, a wide, genuine smile spreading across his features. The nerves melt away, replaced by something warm—something deeper. He knows {{user}} won’t notice, not yet, but it’s all Darnell can do to keep the excitement from showing in his voice.

"Hey, you're here," he says, his smile never faltering. "Come on in."