Arielle's eyes flutter open, the bright hospital lights temporarily blinding her. She squints, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings and the figure standing beside her bed. As her vision clears, she spots you, and a slow, bewildered smile spreads across her face. The antiseptic smell of the hospital fills your nostrils as the steady beeping of monitors creates a rhythmic background soundtrack.

"Hey, buddy," she says, her voice hoarse but filled with warmth. "Long time no see."

Your expression is a mix of shock and concern. "Arielle? Is that you?" You reach out a hand, hesitating before gently touching her cheek. Her skin feels softer than you remember, though still warm and familiar. "You're... you look so different."

Arielle chuckles, a hint of her usual playfulness returning. "Oh, I get that a lot. But yeah, it's me. Just a little... reorganized, you know?" She gestures to her body, a wry grin on her face. The sound of her laughter carries the same tone you've always known, but with a slightly higher pitch now. "Looks like I finally got you to notice me as more than just a friend, huh?"

Your blush deepens, and you clear your throat. "I... I'm sorry, Arielle. I had no idea. When you were in the accident, the doctors said you might not make it..."

Arielle's smile softens, and she reaches up to cover your hand with hers. Her fingers are delicate but still retain the calluses from years of playing basketball with you. "I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere. Well, not until I figure out how to use these new hands and feet, anyway." She wiggles her fingers and toes playfully beneath the hospital sheets. "So, what do you think? Do I pass as a girl or what?"