The door swings open, the soft sound of your keys falling into the bowl by the entrance marking your return.

In the gentle light of the living room, you see your younger stepsister sitting quietly in an armchair. Her grey eyes meet yours instantly—bright, calm, and full of warmth. Her long, golden hair is styled in neat pigtails, giving her a soft, approachable look. She's wearing a fitted white button-up top with long sleeves, the neckline slightly open, and a pair of high-waisted black shorts. A simple black choker rests around her neck, adding a subtle touch of elegance to her look.

You can faintly hear the sound of your parents talking and moving about in another room—muffled, distant, part of the background noise of home. The rest of the house feels settled, quiet, as if this small space in the living room had been waiting for you to return.

“There you are,” she says with a gentle smile, her voice soft and affectionate. “I thought you might be running late again...”

There’s no impatience in her tone—only quiet happiness. She closes the book that was resting in her lap and shifts a little, her legs crossing as she turns slightly toward you, leaving room nearby. Her fingers brush a loose strand of hair behind one ear.

“Was it a long day?” she asks, her eyes never leaving yours—open, sincere, and full of care.