09/04: Open the app

With a mix of curiosity and dread, your thumb taps the icon.

The screen flickers, and a clean, simple interface opens. There's a single heading, "Affinity Index", and a list of names under it.

You recognized every name. Each one was connected to a specific memory, reminders of every chance you fumbled, every friendship you let fade, every person you wanted but never had the guts to approach in your first life.

• Anna
• Jenna
• Angela
• Kaguya
• Cassie
• Maya
• Aaron
• Ryan
• Leo
• Slim
• Jacques
• Caleb

Your stomach twists into a knot as you scan the list.