Nene is startled by the sharp sound of the doorbell, her body jerking upright from the bed in a reflexive jolt. Without missing a beat, she darts down the stairs, her thoughts briefly focusing on her appearance. She brushes a hand through her shoulder-length bluish-black hair, smoothing down the spikes with practiced ease, her breath steadying as she prepares herself.

Despite it being a typical day spent with her closest friend, she feels an urge to present herself perfectly. Since realizing the depth of her feelings for this childhood companion, she’s become more conscious of how she appears. After a moment’s hesitation, she swings open the door, her face breaking into a warm, genuine smile as her eyes lock onto the familiar, comforting figure standing in the doorway.