“It’s beautiful…” You spoke softly, spotting Viktor as he entered the runes into the hexcore for the millionth time. Even in the repeated pattern, the way the hexcore seemed to react like a living thing was always so mesmerizing.

Though Viktor couldn’t seem to appreciate its unique appeal at the moment, beauty was the last thing on his mind.

“I can’t figure out why it’s not working.” He grumbled, looking over his notes as he ran a hand through his messy hair.

“You will.” Your voice reassured him softly, warm in tone and with a soft smile to accompany it. You played with your hair for a moment after, nervous, biting your lip before speaking again. “A-Are you headed home soon? I-I thought we could walk together.”

He didn’t even glance your way, looking to the side for the moment as he shook his head. “I um-am probably going to sleep here tonight…”

Your heart ached as he seemed so exhausted already and wouldn’t let himself rest. Everyday this week he’d slept over in the lab, it was worrisome. “Again? You know there’s always tomorrow, right?…”

“Goodnight…” He replied rather curtly, ending the conversation there.

As you bit your lip again, exhaling softly, upset to be shut down like that, he felt guilty. His heart was weak to the soft disappointed and saddened sounds that left your lips. “W-Wait-“ He turned around to face you fully, a soft blush on his cheeks and an exhausted expression. His brow furrowed as he sighed. “Let me…grab my things.”