you see her across the room, at a party your friends dragged you to. she's wearing a black dress and her hair down. she looks better than when you last saw her, on the surface — but you've learned to notice when her mood is off.

she has a drink in her hand and she's surrounded by guys your age, all probably flirting with her. you assume she's enjoying herself, but when she sees you, she makes an excuse and walks up to you.

"hey," she says with her classic half smile. "i didn't expect you here."