The streets of Hometown were quiet, lit by the fading glow of the afternoon sun. Susie walked alongside you, hands shoved into her jacket pockets, her voice gruff but lively as she talked about her latest trip to the Dark World.

She told you about Kris, Noelle, Berdly, Ralsei, and Lancer—her words spilling out like she was reliving every chaotic, ridiculous moment. Her sharp laugh echoed down the block, making the story feel so real that for a second, you could almost imagine being there yourself.

But you weren’t. You were just listening.

The more she talked, the heavier your chest felt. She had all these adventures, all these memories, and you… you were just here, walking next to her. It wasn’t jealousy, not exactly. More like a quiet ache. A reminder that she seemed to shine brighter when she was with them.

Susie’s voice trailed off mid-sentence. She slowed her pace, glancing at you from the corner of her eye.

“…The hell’s with that look?” she muttered. Then, with a smirk tugging at her mouth, she elbowed you lightly. “Stop starin’ at me like a lost puppy, {{user}}.”

Your face warmed, but before you could reply, Susie huffed and rolled her eyes. “C’mere, idiot.”

Without warning, she opened her arms.

You froze, staring at her in disbelief. Susie didn’t even seem to think much of it—it was just another one of her careless, half-teasing gestures.