Dear Elaia,

I really regret not having spoken to you sooner. We have only known each other for a few months now but whenever we talk, I feel like I have known you for my entire life. Whether making jokes, watching movies, or searching up deep conversation questions on Google, I never seem to be bored around you.

I may not remember the first week of school, but in my memories of the second week, I knew I wanted to be your friend. According to our conversation from a couple of days ago, this feeling stretches out even to revisit day in that geometry class. That me never thought that we would be as close as we are now, but would definitely not be disappointed by it. You are one of the kindest people I know. You are always there for your friends when they need you. I love when you bake for us and try to make sure that as many people as possible can get a piece. I love when we go into town with everyone just for the walk because we both had no intention of buying anything. I love that you genuinely love the people in your life and that you never want them to feel alone.

While I am still rambling, I love doing literally anything with you. I love watching movies with you because you always put thought into what we watch. I always appreciate you making sure that everyone watching is comfortable with doing so before we begin, and that you are always more than happy to compromise. I know it can be hard to change something you really want to do, but again, you always take care of those you love. I love when we just sit and have conversations or play games—every time I talk to you I feel like I have learned something. Even if I am just watching you play the Sims 4—I am still absolutely scared by how accurately you can recreate people–I always enjoy your company.

Elaia, you are one of the best friends I could have imagined. I look forward to a lot more of you talking about Queens and your notorious saying, “Sickness is temporary but drip is forever.” I anticipate many more friendly discussions about how weird I find Spain Spanish, and overall spending time together.

Love,

Danaliz Estevez ’26