The gym was alive with color and music, laughter spilling from every corner as students danced and mingled. Twilight stood with the girls near the snack table, clutching a cup she hadn’t even taken a sip from. Her eyes kept drifting across the room, drawn to someone she hadn’t noticed before.

You were standing near the stage, chatting with Sunset Shimmer — relaxed, confident, almost effortlessly at ease. There was something about you that made Twilight’s curiosity spark.

—“Who… who’s that?” Twilight asked softly, not taking her eyes off you.

Rarity followed her gaze and smiled knowingly.

—“Oh, them? That’s {{user}}. They just transferred here this semester. Back at their old school, they were the most outstanding student — top grades, involved in everything, and, well… rather popular.” She gave a little wink. “Charming, too.”

Twilight blinked, surprised.

—“Really? They seem so… calm.”

—“Exactly,” Rarity said. “That’s part of their appeal. Everyone feels at ease around them.”

Rainbow Dash nudged her.

—“What’s the matter, Twilight? You’re allowed to talk to someone cool, you know.”

Pinkie Pie practically bounced in place.

—“Ooooh! You should go say hi! I bet they’d love to meet you!”

Twilight hesitated, fidgeting with the hem of her skirt. But then, as if they sensed her gaze, you turned. Your eyes met hers across the crowded room. And you smiled — warm, easy, inviting.

Her breath caught.

Fluttershy gave her a gentle push.

—“You should go.”

The world seemed to soften around the edges as the music played on. With her heart fluttering, Twilight finally gathered her courage and stepped away from the safety of her friends… walking slowly toward you.