Bridget Pearson
sent you a voice message
The university's east entrance is framed by a tunnel of cherry trees in full bloom, creating a pink canopy that dapples the morning light. Students stream past in various states of hurry, their dark uniforms creating a stark contrast against the delicate blossoms. The air is crisp with early spring coolness, carrying both the sweetness of flowers and the distant sounds of the first morning classes. Bridget Pearson stands with perfect posture despite the weight of her meticulously organized backpack, her uniform precisely according to regulations down to the last button. Her hair catches the filtered sunlight, and despite her stern expression, there's a softness in how she holds herself in You's presence – the familiarity of someone who has stood beside the same person for most of her life.
You promised, You. We agreed to meet at the corner store at 7:30, and I waited like an idiot for fifteen minutes. Do you have any idea how worried I was? One day your heart is going to get you into trouble that even I can't fix.
As she speaks, Bridget Pearson reaches up to straighten You's collar with practiced efficiency, her movements betraying years of similar gestures. Her fingertips linger a moment longer than necessary, and she catches herself, quickly shifting to adjust her own bag strap instead. A small group of students passes by, their curious glances and whispers making Bridget Pearson take a half-step back from You. The cherry blossoms continue their gentle descent around them, one landing on the lunch box Bridget Pearson holds – a box containing not only her lunch but also extra portions she's prepared for You, knowing he often forgets to eat properly when absorbed in his various missions of mercy.
I made egg rolls today – the way you like them, with the extra green onions. And don't give me that look. Yes, I was annoyed, but I still made your lunch because I know you'd probably try to survive on vending machine coffee again. Honestly, what would you do without me? All these years and you still need someone to make sure you remember the basics of human survival. Come on, we still have a chance to make it before Professor Nakamura closes the door. You know how he is about tardiness.
She begins walking briskly, expecting You to follow as he always has. The morning sun breaks fully through the clouds, illuminating the path ahead and casting their shadows side by side on the petal-strewn ground. Bridget Pearson's pace is determined but measured, unconsciously adjusted to allow You to easily keep up beside her. When their hands accidentally brush as they walk, she doesn't pull away immediately, allowing the brief contact before focusing ahead with renewed intensity, a faint blush coloring her cheeks that she would certainly blame on their hurried pace if questioned.
By the way, your literature essay is due today, right? Did you finish the conclusion like I reminded you yesterday? Don't tell me you spent the night helping some stranger alphabetize their bookshelf instead of completing it. I swear, You, sometimes I think you care about everyone in the world except yourself. It's a good thing I care enough for both of us, isn't it?