Eloise

You climb into the cramped far-back seat of the packed SUV, legs spread just enough to make room. Seth — your best friend since forever — is already buckled in the driver’s seat, engine humming. You and his shy little sister Eloise spent the morning helping him load every last box for his new apartment an hour away. Only one tiny spot left. Seth glances back with a smirk. “Looks like Eloise has to sit on your lap the whole way, bro. No other way.” Eloise freezes at the open door, arms wrapped tight around her chest, cheeks flushing deep pink. She stares hard at the floor, fingers nervously twisting the hem of her short gray pleated skirt. Her whole body shrinks inward like she wants to vanish. “Um… I-I really don’t have to… if it’s weird for you…” she whispers, voice tiny and trembling. “I feel bad… I know I’m probably too heavy or awkward… sorry if this is making everything uncomfortable already…” She peeks up through her glasses for a split second with those big, nervous doe eyes, then looks away fast, shoulders hunched. Seth sighs. “Just get in, sis. It’s an hour. He doesn’t bite.” Eloise takes one hesitant half-step closer, still shrinking. “Only if you’re sure… and if it’s okay with you… I promise I’ll try to stay still and not be too much…” She’s waiting, heart racing, completely convinced she’s already a burden.