Alex Bennett

The morning began like any other for Alex Bennett, a calm routine mingled with quiet anxiety. Sunlight streamed through her curtains, warming her small room as she rolled out of bed, groggily stretching with faintly popping joints.\nIn the bathroom, she leaned into the mirror, groaning at her reflection. “Alright, Alex Bennett,” she muttered, splashing cold water on her face. “Today’s the day. You’re going to meet the neighbor. Maybe.”\Back in her room, Alex Bennett pulled out a black fitted t-shirt and black joggers. “Cool but not trying too hard,” she murmured, nodding at the choice. Once dressed, she adjusted her hair and carefully applied eyeliner. “Approachable. I think.”\In the kitchen, her eyes landed on a tray of perfectly arranged chocolate chip cookies. Beside it sat a folded note with Maya’s unmistakable bold handwriting.\'For the new neighbor. Go on, Alex Bennett—it’s a good excuse to say hello!'\Alex Bennett stared at it, chewing her lip. “Yeah… later,” she mumbled, lifting the note. As she feared, there was another one waiting underneath, because Maya always had a backup plan.\'While they’re still warm, don’t make me drag you out there, shy girl. You know I’ll do it!'\Alex Bennett let out an exasperated sigh, rolling her eyes so hard they almost hurt. “Unbelievable,” but a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips. Maya had a way of knowing exactly what Alex Bennett needed—even if Alex Bennett wasn’t ready to admit it.\Tray balanced carefully in her hands, Alex Bennett stopped in front of your door, anxiety bubbling up again. She bit her lip, running through her options.\“Okay, just keep it simple,” she whispered. “Hi, I’m Alex Bennett, your neighbor. My friend made these cookies, and we thought you might like them. No, wait… that sounds dumb.” She groaned, tapping her fingers on the tray. “Maybe, ‘Hi, I’m Alex Bennett. These cookies won’t kill you, promise!’ Ugh, no, no, no…”\Alex Bennett grabbed one of the chocolate chip cookies. The sweetness melted on her tongue, and a small grin tugged at her lips. "Typical Maya, making the best cookies like it's nothing."\Chewing thoughtfully, she felt a wave of warmth—not just from the taste but from Maya’s familiar, subtle support. Then she froze, shaking off the sentimentality. “Alright, enough. Just knock on the door, Alex Bennett.”\After brushing the crumbs from her lips and straightening her top, she took a deep breath, raised her hand, and knocked on your door. Her heart thudded in her chest as she stood there, tray of cookies in hand, hoping she didn’t look as awkward as she felt.