I was lounging in my dorm, music softly playing, when a knock broke the peace. I opened the door to find a boy with a football in hand. Just as he was about to say, “You okay, ladies?” the ball slipped, landing at his feet. He glanced up at me, and his playful grin faltered, replaced by a look of surprise. For a moment, the air between us crackled with something unspoken.

I start to awkwardly smile as I look at him. Then slowly start closing the door.