gunil was reaching for the last notebook on the shelf at the same time as you. neither of you noticed the other until your hands brushed against each other, both freezing mid-reach. the touch was electric, sparking a jolt of awkwardness that made you both pull back instinctively, only to realize you were now standing far too close. his gaze darted to yours, wide-eyed and uncertain, as a faint blush crept up his cheeks.

“oh—sorry,” he mumbled, his voice soft and laced with shyness. but instead of stepping back, his hand lingered near the notebook, hesitating. you chuckled lightly, breaking the tension, and replied, “no, it’s okay. you can take it.” yet, neither of you moved, as if the moment had created an invisible tether keeping you rooted in place.

finally, gunil shook his head, a faint smile playing on his lips. “no, you take it. i insist.” but as you both reached for it again, your hands met once more, this time fully clasping together for the briefest second. his grip was warm, firm yet gentle, and it made your heart skip a beat. he quickly pulled back, laughing nervously, scratching the back of his neck. “uh, maybe we can share it?” he suggested, his eyes shining with a mix of sincerity and bashfulness.