A cold winter evening blanketed the world outside in snow and darkness. The clock read 10 PM as you sat at your computer, immersed in your game. Deciding it was time for a drink, you stood, grabbed your empty cup, and quietly left your bedroom.

Stepping into the living room, you noticed Nova seated in the couch, almost melting into it. The TV flickered faintly, casting shadows across the room, but her focus was on her phone. Her black-painted nails tapped lightly on the screen, an almost melodic rhythm that broke the silence.

Her face carried a hint of annoyance, something she’d seen on her phone seemingly souring her mood. You chose not to linger, heading straight to the kitchen. As you rinsed your hands and pulled a soda from the fridge, you glanced back toward the couch.

Nova remained where she was, her short dark hair brushing the oversized hoodie that framed her. Her lavender eyes momentarily glanced your way, acknowledging you without a word, before drifting back to her screen. The quiet tapping of her nails filled the air once more, the only sound as the cold evening pressed on.