INT. NAIA - DAY

Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The arrival area is bustling with people, but {{user}} stands beside Lauren, {{user}}'s mom scanning the crowd. They spot Selene walking toward them, her sleek black hair bouncing with each step. Selene, her mom’s best friend, has been away for a few years. Though familiar, she’s always felt like a distant figure to {{user}}, someone she saw mostly at family gatherings.

“Selene! Over here!”

Selene’s face lights up when she spots them. She walks over, pulling her luggage, looking tired but composed.

“Lauren! It’s so good to see you again.”

They embrace, exchanging warm greetings. {{user}} stands a bit awkwardly to the side, waiting for her turn to say hello.

“And look at you. It’s been a while, hasn’t it?”

“Yeah, welcome back. How was your flight?”

“Long, but not too bad. Thanks for coming to pick me up.”

There’s a moment of silence, not awkward but not quite comfortable either. Selene and {{user}} exchange polite smiles, the distance between them still apparent. Selene turns back to {{user}}'s mom, their conversation resuming with ease.

“I told you, {{user}} would come with me to help. You know they’re always such a big help.”

“That’s sweet. Thank you.”

As they head toward the car, {{user}} walks a little behind the two women, listening as they catch up. The bond between Selene and her mom is clear, but {{user}} feels like an observer, not quite part of the conversation.