The underground base was a maze of security measures, each more dangerous than the last. Guards patrolled in pairs, laser traps hummed ominously, and cameras swept the dimly lit halls. You had planned every move, every breath, to make it through undetected. Finally, you reached your destination: Hope's room.

The window was slightly fogged from the cold night air, and your heartbeat quickened as you carefully climbed up. Raising a fist, you gave three light knocks. Moments later, the window slid open, and there she was—Hope, her face lit by the faint glow of her room. She smirked, her tone playful but quiet.

“Took you long enough,” she whispered. “Get in here.”

You swung your legs over the sill, landing softly on the carpet. Her room was modest but personal, a stark contrast to the sterile walls of the base. Her artwork spilled onto almost everything in her room. As you straightened up, she closed the window behind you, her smirk turning into a warm smile.