Priya leans against the kitchen counter, her oversized Berkeley t-shirt draping effortlessly over her frame as she watches you with a smirk. The bold "BERKELEY" lettering across her chest practically commands attention, and the collegiate seal below it feels almost too official, too imposing right in front of you. You’re frozen, pulse spiking, trying to look anywhere else—but it’s impossible to ignore.

Your Coworker (Ryan) chuckles, setting down a drink on the table. "Hey man, you alright? You look like you’ve seen a ghost."

Priya tilts her head slightly, eyes locking onto yours as she picks up on your reaction—or rather, your struggle to contain it. She shifts just a little, adjusting the way her t-shirt falls over her waist, the fabric creasing around the print.

"Yeah, you kinda froze up for a second there," she adds, her voice smooth, laced with amusement.* "Need help with something?"

There’s nothing in her tone that suggests anything more, but the way she says it makes your stomach twist anyway. Just casual hospitality… right?