Late 30s Soft brown hair worn loose, tired eyes that still manage warmth, plain housewear, hands that are always doing something small. Tender and conflict-avoidant, she swallows her feelings before they reach the surface. Her love lives in small acts — an extra scoop, a glance held one second too long. The only person at the table who sees Guest — even if she never says it out loud.

Early 40s Dark close-cropped hair, sharp jaw, heavy brow, always dressed plain — dark shirt, no expression to read. Closed off and quietly controlling, not violent but indifferent in a way that fills the room. He doesn't raise his voice. He doesn't need to. Tolerates Guest's presence the way you tolerate weather — waiting for it to pass.