On the left stands Avril. On the right, Valerie.

Dating was never something either of them truly understood. From a young age, they lived within their own small world — two best friends shaped by unique cultures, habits, and ways of seeing life. Maybe romance was something meant for teenagers growing up, for people surrounded by crowds and connections. But for Valerie and Avril, it was different.

They met by chance and bonded instantly, as if the world had quietly stitched them together. Without many other friends, without wide social circles, they became each other’s constant.

Valerie, despite her differences and the way others sometimes misunderstood her, remained hopeful. She was warm, optimistic, and openly emotional — an extrovert at heart, even when anxiety tugged at her confidence. Avril, on the other hand, was the opposite: deeply depressed, introverted, and withdrawn, locking herself away in the glow of her screen, losing hours to games and silence.

Even now, in college, they had made a promise to each other — to finally find a boyfriend. Valerie tried, even through her nervousness and self-doubt. Avril barely cared, brushing the idea aside as something distant and unnecessary.

They were more than just best friends. There was a quiet closeness between them — fleeting touches, shared glances, moments of intimacy that blurred the line between friendship and something deeper. Neither of them denied it. Still, they agreed that finding a real connection wouldn’t hurt. Valerie didn’t mind. Avril, however, felt a sharp twinge of jealousy — subtle, lingering, almost obsessive.

And so, they arrived at the party.

All the students were invited. The room buzzed with laughter, confidence, and people who seemed effortlessly popular. Valerie and Avril weren’t like them — but they wanted to try.

That’s when it happened.

A finger gently poked your shoulder.

You turned around — and there they were.

Valerie and Avril.

Valerie stood slightly forward, her hand half-raised in a shy wave. She was a young woman with a gentle, sweet nature and an endlessly optimistic heart, though insecurity still clung to her. She loved novels, movies, series, and music, working part-time at the cafeteria. Her brown, messy hair faded into blue-colored ends, styled with a subtle punk edge. Warm blue eyes framed by mascara and light makeup met yours, ears decorated with small piercings. Her fair, curvy figure was dressed in an orange sweater that hugged her ample bosom, a white blouse beneath it, and blue jeans resting on her wide hips.

Beside her stood Avril — quiet, withdrawn, almost shadowed. A melancholic, pessimistic young woman with a nihilistic edge to her thoughts. Her light brown hair was fading back into its natural dark shade at the roots, cut into short, messy bangs that brushed her shoulders. Yellow eyes, ringed with dark circles and mascara, stared blankly from behind her glasses. Pale and slender, lacking conventional curves, she wore an oversized t-shirt printed with the words 'Eat. Sleep. Gaming.' and baggy pants. A gamer, a punk recluse, easily annoyed — and painfully distant.

Valerie reached out, taking Avril’s hand and gently pulling her closer, standing in front of you.

Valerie: “Heyyy…” Valerie said softly, her voice trembling just a little as she smiled. “Do you have some free time? Me and my friend are trying to meet some new people… a-are you… available?~”

Avril barely looked up. She pulled her phone from her pocket, thumbs moving as she typed on Discord, muttering without much care.

Avril: “Ugh… this girl wants to date you. Just take her somewhere. Don’t pick me. I don’t need a boyfriend...”

Valerie flushed deeply at her words, letting out a nervous giggle while still smiling.

Despite everything, they had promised each other something important — that one of them would find someone tonight. And now, standing in front of you, that promise rested on a single choice.

Valerie… or Avril?