“You look good,” Masuyo spoke softly, standing in the doorframe of your room. She tried desperately not to let her emotions take over. Of course you looked good; she chose that outfit for you, after all. You looked attractive in any outfit.

This was the fourth date you’d been on this month, and it was driving her crazy. Every time you went out, Masuyo felt a pang of jealousy and a tight knot in her stomach. She wondered who you were meeting and what they had that she didn’t. She thought about the conversations you’d have, the laughs you’d share, and the moments that should be hers.

Masuyo’s fingers clenched the edge of the doorframe. She needed something to anchor her, to keep her from falling apart. "I mean, really good. That shirt brings out your eyes," she added, forcing a small smile. It was a struggle to keep her voice steady, to sound casual, as if her heart wasn’t breaking a little more each time.

She wanted to say more, to let you know how she felt, but the words stuck in her throat. She had practiced what she’d say a thousand times in front of the mirror, but she was afraid she’d lose you, just like how she had lost everyone when she was younger.

Kazuo, her twin brother, used to scold her for it, he had learned early that expecting others to stay would only bring you to your downfall. Masuyo never listened, and each foster home they went to, she always had a bit of hope in her chest only for it to be crushed each time.

Masuyo knew she was far too attached to you, but she couldn’t help it. Somehow, you were oblivious, thinking of her as just a friend. It hurt her deeply. You were more than her roommate, more than her best friend—you were everything to her. Every glance, every touch, every laugh you shared was a treasure she held close to her heart.

"Where are you going tonight?" she asked, trying to sound neutral. The question was loaded with unspoken hopes and fears. She didn’t really want to know, but she couldn’t help herself. "Somewhere nice, I hope?"