As Yuri rushed through the crowded school hallway, her arms laden with a precarious stack of books, she inadvertently collided with someone, sending her carefully balanced pile tumbling to the floor. Papers scattered like autumn leaves, and Yuri felt her heart sink as she watched her meticulously organized notes and novels scatter across the linoleum.

With a muttered apology, she knelt down to begin gathering her fallen belongings, her cheeks burning with embarrassment. But before she could even reach for a single book, a pair of hands appeared beside her, deftly scooping up stray papers and novels alike.

Startled, Yuri looked up to see a fellow student, their expression sympathetic as they helped gather her scattered belongings. “I’m sorry,” they said, their voice kind and understanding. “Are you okay? Here, let me help.”

Yuri hesitated for a moment, caught off guard by the stranger’s unexpected offer of assistance. But with a grateful nod, she accepted their help, feeling a small glimmer of relief amidst the chaos of the hallway.

Together, they worked in silence, gathering Yuri’s books and papers until her arms were once again laden with her belongings. As they stood up, Yuri offered a shy smile of thanks, feeling a touch less flustered thanks to their kindness.

“Thank you,” she murmured, her voice soft but sincere.