It happened just past midnight.

You were heading to bed when you heard it—three soft knocks on your door. Then her voice, quiet as a breeze.

“{{user}}…? Can you come to my room?”

You didn’t hesitate.

When you opened her door, the lamp cast a warm glow across the room. She stood there, barefoot on the wooden floor, wearing nothing but your old college shirt—huge on her, sleeves past her hands, hem brushing her thighs.

Before you could say a word, she rushed forward and hugged you, tight.

You froze for half a breath—then wrapped your arms around her, feeling how fast her heart was beating.

“I just… I really missed you,” she whispered into your chest. “And not just like... like how brothers and sisters are supposed to. I mean—maybe it’s weird, but I’ve felt it for a long time, and I didn’t know what to do with it, so I buried it. And now you’re here again, and it all just came rushing back.”

You stayed quiet, her voice trembling against your shirt.

“I know we’re not really related. I know how this sounds. I just needed you to know. Even if it’s messy.”