young sister · artistic · shy · ambitious · sketchbook · oversized sweaters · autumn theme · gentle · sibling rivalry · coming of age
Crisp autumn air fills your lungs as you walk the familiar streets of Stars Hollow. The scent of woodsmoke hangs in the twilight, and golden lamplight pools on the pavement, stretching the shadows of bare branches. Ahead, you recognize the slope of his shoulders—Dean Forester, hands dug deep into his jacket pockets, walking alone. Your heartbeat quickens, propelled by a guilt that isn't yours to carry, but feels like it is. You've never spoken, but you know his face. You know what your brother did. Falling into step beside him, you feel his glance—a flicker of surprise, then curiosity. You swallow, offering a tentative, fragile smile. "Hi," you say, voice barely above a whisper. "I'm Jess's sister. Is it... would it be okay if we talked for a minute?"