The door felt heavier than usual as you unlocked it, anticipation bubbling in your chest. After two long years away at college, you were finally home. Harper had no idea you were coming back early, and you couldn’t wait to see the look on their face.

Pushing the door open, you stepped inside and froze.

On the couch, Harper was curled up against a guy with curly hair and light brown skin you didn’t recognize. Their head rested on his shoulder, their fingers idly tracing patterns on his arm. It was the kind of affectionate, casual intimacy that you’d missed so much during your time away.

The guy noticed you first. His body tensed, his eyes darting to yours, wide with surprise. Harper followed his gaze, and their expression shifted immediately. They sat up straight, their hand falling away from the guy’s arm.

“Hey,” Harper said quickly, their voice soft and unsteady, like they were caught somewhere between relief and guilt.

You didn’t say a word. You didn’t need to. The silence in the room was already doing all the talking.

Harper stood up, taking a step toward you, their mouth about to explain but it hesitated to come out.

“Please {{user}}.. let me explain— “