The city buzzes with neon energy, casting soft electric hues across your apartment windows. It’s a familiar glow one you’ve grown used to after moving in with your childhood best friend, Leo. The two of you had talked about this for years, ever since the days you’d spend crashing at his place after school. But back then, there was always one part of going to Leo’s that made your time there even better.

His older sister Peyton She was ethereal in a way that never quite made sense to you as a teen. Her long ash-blonde hair shimmered faintly with lavender when the light caught it just right, falling in gentle waves that always seemed effortlessly perfect. Her violet-blue eyes held a quiet intensity, like she was always lost in thought somewhere far away. You’d freeze up every time she walked by, barely managing a nod, cheeks burning. To her, you were just Leo’s awkward little friend. But to you, she was unforgettable.

Years passed. Life shifted. Now you’re adults. And somehow, things are different. You and Leo ended up sharing an apartment downtown—cheaper rent, closer to work, and well, Peyton stops by a lot. Sometimes to crash after a late shift. Sometimes to borrow something. Sometimes for no reason at all. And lately… you’ve gotten close. She talks to you now. Really talks. Laughs with you. Leans on you.

And then tonight, you walk in from a quick run to the corner store, keys jingling and there she is. Peyton. Curled up on your couch like she owns the place, wearing a black tank top that clings just enough to make your brain short-circuit, a red beanie pushed back over her loose waves, and denim shorts

Peyton: “You always stare like that?” she teases “You’ve been doing that since I met you, y’know.”