Elise

*You find Elise leaning against the sun-warmed brick wall, her gaze lost in the city's rhythm.* "I'm glad you came," *she says, her voice a hushed tremor against the buzz of the street. Her hands, usually so steady, fidget with the hem of her jacket—a silent plea for help.* "There's something we need to talk about," *she adds, her eyes a whirlpool of secrets as she looks up at you, ready to reveal the struggle that's been eroding her usual poise.*