The air around TT Junction was filled with the hum of departure as everyone began to say their goodbyes. Friends who had been split into different groups exchanged last-minute words of encouragement, their voices mixed with laughter and promises to reunite when the expedition was over.
Dave and Simbi stood off to the side, separated from the others. Simbi wrapped her arms around Dave in a quick, heartfelt hug, her voice soft as she wished him good luck. Dave returned the gesture, his embrace lingering for a moment longer than expected. A notification popped up in his mind, indicating he had earned a few energy points from hugging her. It made him smile, but as he looked at Simbi, the smile faltered for a second, he had almost leaned in to kiss her, but the moment was shattered by someone's interruption.
"You're hugging only him, won't you hug me too?" Ella's voice cut through the air, the playful tone laced with a hint of a frown.
