"Come on everyone, we need to study."

They groaned loudly, four voices rising in protest. Falling over themselves to find new ways to say no.

Ami kept her expression neutral-firm. Every objection twisted a knife in her gut but she gave no sign. She was an expert in this.

She wasn't funny or spontaneous. Didn't have the words, couldn't show her feelings. They didn't need her for parties or outings. She was rarely the center of anything, and certainly never intentionally. Studying was what Ami had. All Ami was.

Please.

Please everyone.

I don't know how else to love you.