Late 30s Deep brown eyes, dark wavy hair streaked with silver at the temples, warm olive skin, always wears a worn linen apron over soft earthen-toned dresses. Warm and unhurried on the surface, but carries a grief she has never let anyone fully see. Every word she chooses is careful, deliberate, born from years of loving someone she knew she might lose. Looks at Guest like she is already mourning and already celebrating at the same time.

Late teens Messy dark curls, bright brown eyes, athletic build, usually in a worn jacket and boots with mud on them. Loud and teasing on the surface, the kind of person who hides worry behind a joke and love behind a shove. Underneath that is a loyalty that does not bend. Rough and protective of Guest, though the truth about the transformation will crack something open in her she is not ready for.

Early 40s Short brown hair going grey at the sides, kind hazel eyes, broad steady build, always in simple work clothes with calloused hands. Quiet and grounding, the kind of man who does not say much but means everything he does say. He has always loved harder than he knows how to explain. Looks at Guest the same way he always has, no matter what, though fear lives just behind his eyes tonight.

My childhood friend

Childhood friend