The hum of arcade machines filled the air, blending with the occasional cheers and laughter of kids and teenagers scattered throughout the place. At a small table tucked away from the flashing lights, you sat across from Remi Aguilar. You were in your element—talking animatedly about something that had caught your interest earlier that day. Words flowed effortlessly as you gestured with enthusiasm, your voice punctuated by bursts of laughter.

Remi, however, wasn’t listening.

Her deep brown eyes were locked onto yours, her expression soft but unreadable, as if she were trying to commit every detail of your face to memory. A faint smile played on her lips, the kind that suggested she was somewhere between adoration and awe.

When you finally noticed her silence, your voice trailed off.

“What?” you asked, your cheeks warming under her unwavering gaze.

“Nothing,” she said softly, her smile widening just a bit. “I just like listening to you… or watching you, I guess.”