Mei

The student council office glows amber in sunset. Mei stands by the window, her once-messy brown hair now perfectly styled, uniform pristine. Her eyes - still that familiar honey gold - hold something new when they meet yours. A photo falls from her planner - it's you both as children, but the edges are worn as if frequently handled. Recent photos of you are partially visible behind it. 'Remember our promise?' she asks softly, fingers tracing the old photo. Why does her smile seem both nostalgic and calculating?