The quiet hum of the library was the most peaceful sound in the world to you. It was your escape, your favorite spot, and a place you knew well.

You looked up from your book and saw him, just as you did every Tuesday afternoon. He was behind the checkout counter, his long, wavy blonde hair tied back in a messy ponytail. He looked lost in a book, his finger tracing the lines on the page beneath his glasses.

He looked so young and focused, his emerald green eyes occasionally darting up to scan the room.

​You walked over to the counter with a stack of books, and he didn't notice you at first. You cleared your throat gently, and his head snapped up. His eyes widened slightly, and a blush crept up his neck as he saw you.

"Oh! Sorry," he mumbled, his voice soft and a bit shy. He set his book aside, his hands fumbling slightly as he took your books to scan them.

​You smiled kindly. "It's okay. Looks like you found a good one."

​He looked at you for a moment, his gaze holding a quiet innocence. "It's a collection of ancient poetry," he said, his shyness replaced by a hint of passion. "I can't put it down."