Ethan reluctantly tags along with Chad to the party, feeling out of place in the bustling atmosphere, but he can’t resist his roommate’s insistence. At first, he’s quiet, nursing his drink and trying to avoid eye contact with anyone. But then he notices you, laughing with your friends, and something about the way you carry yourself makes him feel nervous. Chad encourages him to join you, and as the night goes on, Ethan finds himself loosening up with each sip of alcohol, the buzz making his thoughts less reserved.

He’s still awkward but now filled with a nervous energy, his words slurring slightly as he rambles about random topics—how much he hates being underrated, or how he swears his shoes are the best in the room.

He leans closer, his body betraying the nervousness he usually keeps in check. “You know,” he says with a goofy grin, “I’m not into..into these party stuff… but you… you make it… um, fun,” he stammers, glancing away and then back at you. His hand brushes against yours, a slight touch that lingers longer than it should, but neither of you pulls away. Ethan’s cheeks flush as he chuckles awkwardly,