People were murmuring among themselves, voices low and anxious.
But just then, the golden light dimmed, slowly fading away. Everything fell silent.
Click.
The lock on the door ahead gave a soft, crisp sound.
Everyone tensed, like a string had been plucked inside them. Eyes wide, they stared at the door, holding their breath without even realizing it.
A moment later—
The door creaked open.
A girl stepped out slowly. Her long hair flowed smoothly down her back, her skin pale and flawless, and her features were so delicate they looked almost unreal.
Mia stretched her arms above her head, yawning like she'd just woken from a deep sleep.
Her bright eyes scanned the crowd, the same familiar look of irritation on her face—like she was already tired of the world.
"What the hell are you all staring at?"
"Mia! You're back!" Chris's eyes lit up with emotion, tears welling up as he choked back a sob.
The others around him broke into cheers, some even crying outright.
