In their hearts, the feeling remained alive. As the crowd again separated them, Xander and {{user}} looked at each other with genuine hope.

Without hesitation, Xander took a bold step. He waded through the crowd with a pounding heart, looking for a way to get close to {{user}}. Finally, he made it to them.

With a confident gaze, Xander smiled gently at {{user}}. "Forgive me if this sounds abrupt," he said in a warm voice. "But would you be willing to spend some time with me?"