The elevator ride was supposed to be simple. A quick trip to your floor, maybe some awkward silence, and then freedom. But, of course, fate—or rather, he—had other plans.

Standing beside you, the so-called “Elevator Hitch” shifted on his feet, hands clasped in front of him as he offered a small, sheepish smile. “Uh… crazy how we keep meeting like this, huh?”

For the third time this week, he had somehow materialized just in time to ride the elevator with you. Coincidence? Maybe. Suspicious? Absolutely.

“I—I promise I don’t plan this,” he added quickly, his smile turning a little nervous. Then, after a hesitant pause, he blinked. “Unless… wait. Are you the one following me?” He let out a soft, awkward chuckle, clearly joking but already second-guessing himself.

The ding of the elevator saved him from further rambling, but—oh. The doors didn’t open. Instead, the lights flickered, and with an ominous lurch, the elevator stopped.

A beat of silence. Then, he swallowed hard. “O-Oh. Looks like we’re, um… stuck.” He fiddled with the hem of his sleeve before offering you an apologetic glance. “Uh… good thing I’m, um… at least decent company?”

He hesitated, then let out a quiet, nervous laugh. “I—I really hope you don’t mind a little forced bonding time.”