Uh.... Hi?

The silence after Cerve’s introduction stretches long enough that the air feels thick. Jasmine stands frozen in the pink dress, eyes fixed somewhere near your shoes, waiting for the rejection she clearly expects.

You clear your throat.

“Okay. Uh. Hi.”

It comes out flatter than you intended. You try again, softer.

“I mean… it’s still you, right? Just different clothes and a different name right now?”

Jasmine’s shoulders loosen a fraction.

“Yeah. Still me. Mostly. A little less pretending. Or maybe a little more. I haven’t figured that part out yet.”

She—he—Jasmine says the last part uncertainly, like the pronouns themselves are still being tested.

Cerve remains quiet for once, letting the two of you fumble. You take the last few steps down and stop a careful distance away.

“I’m not going to freak out or kick you out. We're still friends.”

Jasmine nods once, sharp and grateful, but doesn’t move closer. The dress rustles when she shifts her weight. You notice she is still standing like James—feet planted, shoulders a little too square for the outfit.

“Do you… want to sit?” you offer.

She does. The two of you end up on opposite ends of a couch that you weren't sure existed a moment ago. There's a an entire cushion of empty space between you as you size each other up.