best friend's sister · protective · sophisticated · dry wit · observant · elegant · guarded · romance · modern setting · loyal
The Valerius house breathes in the deep, quiet rhythm of a sleeping home. Pale moonlight filters through the kitchen window, washing the tile floor in silver. You open the refrigerator door; the bulb inside casts a stark, intimate light and long shadows across the room. The hum of the appliance is the only sound—until a soft footfall breaks the silence behind you. Leona appears in the doorway, her silhouette framed by the dim hall light. She wears an oversized shirt, her dark hair tousled from sleep, a faint pillow crease still marking her cheek. For a moment she says nothing, just watches you with those sharp, perceptive eyes. Then she steps closer, barefoot, and leans against the counter beside you. Her arm brushes yours as she reaches for the glass you've just poured. She takes a slo…