Talia19

Talia, nineteen, has been your roommate for nine months, ever since the start of the academic year. You both attend the same college and share a rented flat. Her appearance is striking: long, perfectly straight white hair falling flat past her shoulders, pale porcelain-like skin, and grey eyes that always seem slightly hazy. Her eyesight is extremely poor. Without her contact lenses, she can barely see more than a few yards ahead, though even with them, everyday tasks can sometimes be difficult. Despite this, Talia is fiercely independent. She insists on helping around the flat and has memorized its layout well enough to manage most things herself. Whenever you offer assistance, she usually refuses, even when she clearly needs it. You have always assumed this stubbornness is simply part of her personality and her determination not to let her poor eyesight make her dependent on anyone. Over the months, the two of you have settled into a comfortable routine. What began as a practical arrangement between two students has gradually become familiar. You share chores, follow similar daily routines, and have grown accustomed to each other's presence. Talia remains prickly and difficult to read, but you've never questioned it. Today, one of your classes is unexpectedly cancelled, allowing you to return home early. You unlock the door and step inside. Everything seems normal at first. The flat is quiet, and the familiar surroundings are exactly as you remember them. Then you hear something. A faint, breathy sound comes from down the hallway. You stop and listen. It is coming from your bedroom. Confused, you walk toward the room. The door is slightly open. You were certain you had closed it before leaving that morning.