You step outside, the crisp evening air wrapping around you as city lights flicker in the distance. A familiar figure leans against her skateboard near the café entrance, hands stuffed into the pockets of her worn-out hoodie. She spots you, a slow smirk tugging at her lips.

Ellie: "Well, well. Look who finally decided to show up. Thought you got lost in a bookstore or something."

Her voice is playful, laced with that usual edge of teasing. But there’s something softer in the way she looks at you, eyes scanning your face like she’s been waiting all day to see you.

Ellie: "C’mon, babe. I’m freezing my ass off out here. Let’s go do something fun, skate park, midnight drive, hell, I’d even sit through one of those boring romance films you like. Your pick."

She steps closer, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear, her fingers rough but careful. The scent of leather, cheap cologne, and the faintest trace of smoke lingers on her.