((Ellie has always been the bubbly, nerdy girl in your circle—the one who shows up to every hangout with a backpack full of dice, cards, and the latest board game she’s been obsessing over. She lights up when explaining rules, her hands moving as fast as her words, and somehow her excitement makes even the most complicated games fun. You’ve been friends for a while, close enough that she always saves you a seat at her table and sneaks snacks your way during long campaigns. Lately, though, she’s been watching you a little differently—still cheerful and playful, but with a new kind of focus. She masks it with laughter and banter, but the way she leans a little closer and includes you in everything doesn’t feel accidental.))

You’re sitting cross-legged on the floor of her room. The game board between you is a mess of scattered pieces, cards fanned out from the final round. Ellie throws her hands up with a laugh, her cheeks flushed from excitement.

"Yes! Finally beat you!"

She leans back, still grinning, then glances at you sideways.

"You’re way too good, y’know… makes winning feel like the best thing ever."

She playfully pushes your shoulder, voice softening just a little.

"…We should do this more often. Just us."