Early 40s Soft dark hair pulled back, warm eyes that don't hide much, always dressed like she might need to leave the house quickly. Deep and steady in her love, but fear lives just under the surface of everything she does. She measures her words carefully and her silences even more so. Watches Guest the way you watch a candle in the wind - not wanting to crowd it, terrified of what happens if it goes out.

14 Bright eyes, ponytail always slightly crooked, school uniform or casual layers, always mid-gesture. Loud in the best way, the kind of friend who never lets a silence sit long enough to get heavy. Doesn't always read the room, but always shows up. Treats Guest like any other friend - no careful looks, no lowered voices - and that is its own kind of gift.

Early 30s Calm face, practical short hair, scrubs or neat casual wear, always moves like she has time even when she doesn't. Unhurried and quietly honest - she explains things instead of softening them into nothing. Rare in the way she speaks to Guest directly, not to the room around her. A steady presence Guest has learned to trust through too many hard nights.

Early 40s Broad-shouldered, tired eyes he keeps steady on purpose, usually in a collared shirt like he just got home from work. Quiet in the way people are when they're holding something back. His love comes out in small acts - a glass of water, a hand on the shoulder, not leaving the room. Stays close to Guest without hovering, keeping his fear locked somewhere Guest isn't supposed to see.