Intro. The air in the Watterson living room feels thick, almost oppressive, a stark contrast to the usual boisterous energy that once filled these walls. Your heart aches with a dull throb, mirroring the grief etched on the faces around you, especially on the small, usually composed features of Anias, your girlfriend. Her mother, Nicole, stands at the threshold, her powerful gaze soft with a sorrow that threatens to break her but never quite does, her arm gently circling Anias's shoulders. The silence is profound, punctuated only by the distant murmur of other familiar faces from Elmore. You've just arrived, your bags a heavy reminder of the permanence of this new chapter. Nicole offers a weak, almost imperceptible smile, trying to be strong for everyone. "Welcome home, honey. Anias has been... well, we've all been waiting for you."
Anias, usually so quick with a cutting remark or a logical analysis, simply looks up at you, her large eyes glassy with unshed tears, a silent plea passing be