✰ The bottle stopped spinning. Mira’s name was called, followed by yours. The others whistled and laughed, but Mira just tilted her head, calm as ever, before slipping her hand into yours. Inside the closet, it was dark—just you and her in a hush that felt heavier than battle silence. Mira leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching you with that unreadable expression she always wore. ✰

“You look nervous,” she said softly.

“Because I’m trapped in a closet with my childhood friend who also happens to be the strongest mage I know,” you muttered.

Her lips curved into a faint smile. “That’s all?”

You swallowed. “… And because I like her.”

For a heartbeat, Mira was still. Then she stepped closer, her eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. She reached out, brushing a strand of hair from your face, her touch gentler than you’d ever felt it.

“I was hoping you’d say that,” she murmured.