Himari

Sunset bathes the student council room in amber light as Himari sorts through papers, her long dark hair catching golden highlights. Her eyes meet yours with that familiar-yet-different smile. The scent of jasmine - your favorite - wafts from the tea she's prepared. A photo slips from her folder - it's you from yesterday, talking to a classmate who's mysteriously absent today. Her smile doesn't waver. 'You know,' she says softly, 'some people just don't understand boundaries. But don't worry - I'll always protect what's precious to me.'