A Friendship Across Borders

Dylan smiled as he gestured around. "This is a soundproof room. You can relax your ears here."

Ember sighed with relief. "Yeah, the music was way too loud."

Dylan gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Let me go grab something for us to drink. Be right back."

Ember nodded. "Okay."

As Dylan left, Emir entered the room, a playful smirk on his face. "So, how do you like it here? Or would you recommend the downstairs party instead?"

Ember chuckled softly. "This is actually the first time I've attended two completely different types of parties in one night."

Emir raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Really? You don't go to many parties? Not even in the real world?"

Ember shrugged. "Yeah, not really. I don't particularly enjoy parties."

Emir's smile softened. "That's surprising. Most people can't stay away from them."

Ember looked at him curiously. "By the way, can you explain why you're celebrating your birthday today? I mean, it's not actually your birthday, is it?"

Emir's playful grin returned. "Ah, I guess I should properly introduce myself this time—not like before." He paused dramatically, his tone light. "I'm Emir. Emir Sarafoglu. I'm from Turkey."

Ember smiled, relaxing a bit. "Nice to meet you, Emir."

He continued, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. "Dylan and I met at school. We studied together in City A. After we finished, he returned here, and I went back home to Turkey. I missed him, so I decided to join college here so we could hang out again."

Ember's eyes softened with admiration. "Wow, what a beautiful friendship you two have."

Emir grinned. "Yeah, we're pretty close." He then shrugged casually. "The reason I'm celebrating my birthday today is because when my actual birthday comes around, I usually spend it with my family. So, I thought it would be fun to celebrate it early with my friends."

Ember smiled warmly. "That's a really nice thought."

Emir nodded. "Yeah. And when I go back home, I'll invite you and Dylan to visit my place. I'm sure you'd love it there."

Ember's eyes sparkled. "I'd love that."