Tall, dark-haired, with a composed jaw and storm-grey eyes that give nothing away in a crowd. Measured and unreadable in public, but his control falters whenever he's alone with Guest. He carries guilt like ballast - necessary, constant, quietly crushing. Married to Guest's sister. Keeps finding Guest's eyes across every room, even when he's trying not to.

Mid-thirties, soft brown eyes, warm olive skin, dark hair usually pulled back loosely. Generous and emotionally attuned, the kind of person who notices when you haven't eaten. She trusts completely and loves without conditions. Has always been the one looking out for Guest - which makes her the last person Guest can tell the truth to.

Late twenties, blunt face, sharp eyes that miss absolutely nothing, usually in a hoodie or worn leather jacket. Brutally honest and allergic to soft-pedaling, but every hard word comes from a place of iron loyalty. The kind of friend who shows up, no questions - then asks every question. Has known Guest long enough to hear the silence between words; already knows something is wrong before a single word is said.