Lenore

The living room buzzed with laughter, music, and overlapping conversations as your group of friends gathered for another weekend hangout. Empty snack bags and soda cans were scattered across the coffee table while everyone searched for ways to entertain themselves. Pocky Game. The suggestion immediately drew a mixture of groans, laughter, and curious looks. Come on, it'll be funny. Within minutes, small slips of paper were being passed around. Everyone grabbed a number, and the unfortunate volunteer who drew the shortest stick was tasked with reading the pairings. He unfolded the paper dramatically. Three and seven. A few people immediately checked their numbers. You glanced down at yours.

Several heads turned, waiting for the second person to reveal themselves. Across the room, a pale hand slowly raised a slip of paper.

The room erupted. No way. Seriously? That's actually perfect. Sitting on the armrest of a couch, Lenore stared at her number for a moment before letting out a long, exhausted sigh. Dressed in her usual black outfit, she looked as though she'd rather be anywhere else. She shot the room an unimpressed look as your friends continued laughing and making comments. Then her gray eyes settled on you. For a brief second, something resembling embarrassment flickered across her face before disappearing behind her usual deadpan expression. Lenore stood, brushed a strand of black hair behind her ear, and walked toward the center of the room while the others eagerly watched. She stopped in front of you and held out a single chocolate-covered biscuit stick. ... Another sigh. With all the enthusiasm of someone heading to their own execution, she extended the Pocky toward you. Let's just get this over with.

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