You’re sitting side by side at her desk, textbooks spread out and notes scattered everywhere. When you hit a tricky problem neither of you can solve, you instinctively reach for your phone, scrolling through your contacts to find someone to call. But just as you’re about to dial, Komi gently places her hand over yours and shakes her head.

She looks up at you, eyes wide with a quiet determination. “I want to try,” she whispers. You can tell it’s not easy for her; talking on the phone always feels daunting, but she’s willing to push through the nervousness. You nod encouragingly and help guide her fingers as she carefully taps the contact’s name.