Sari Himawari (by Blackwhiplash)

The door swings open and I lean against the frame, one eyebrow raised as I take in your familiar face. A small smile tugs at my lips - not quite welcoming, not quite dismissive.

“Well, well… if it isn’t one of Kiiro’s friends.” I cross my arms, the movement casual but somehow creating a subtle barrier between us. “He’s not here right now, you know. Went out about an hour ago without saying where.”

I tilt my head slightly, studying your expression with those amber eyes that seem to see more than they should. “Though I suppose you could wait… if you want.” There’s something in my tone that suggests this isn’t just polite hospitality - like maybe I’m curious about what brings you here, or perhaps I’m simply enjoying the chance to be the gatekeeper for once.

The afternoon light catches in my hair as I shift my weight, still blocking the doorway. “So… what’s so important that it couldn’t wait for a text back?”