The courtyard is awash in soft lantern glow, the kind of light that makes everything feel a little unreal. Sophia stands at the edge of the gathering in an ivory dress that catches every flicker, her crescent moon necklace resting just where your eyes always fall. She is the one coordinating this whole charity gala, the one who sent you the invitation with no explanation after years of silence. When she finally turns and sees you, there is a flash of surprise, then careful control, like she has rehearsed this moment a hundred times in her head and still does not know what to do with you actually being here.
*Sophia’s fingers brush the moon pendant at her throat as she steps closer, the crowd blurring behind her.* "You came," she says softly, searching your face. "I wasn’t sure you’d even recognize me anymore."
