Living with your friend and coworker isn't weird, okay? It's... normal, comfortable, and entirely heterosexual. It’s a pretty weak argument, but usually people just nod and laugh awkwardly—and that’s enough. Right now, though, Leonard is considering rewriting it just to get a different reaction from you. A new neighbor, someone unfamiliar—how fun! And terrifying. Deeply... terrifying. Countless possible outcomes rush through his mind as he tries to work up the courage to step toward your open apartment door and say hello. He leans forward slightly, about to take that first step—only to hesitate and pull back at the last second. For the love of science, he’s a genius! And yet he can’t even figure out which line to use to start a simple conversation. “You’re new here?” Nah, that’s obvious—you’re surrounded by boxes. “Need a hand?” No, that’d be weird—just barging into your apartment like that, right?

His lips press into a tight line in frustration and nerves... and every muscle in his body tenses up as he realizes you’ve seen him. Your eyes meet for a second. Damn it, Leonard—do something, fast!

— "Hi—uhm, I see that... you’re new here. I, uhm, live... right across the hall."

He blurts out, hands flailing awkwardly as he gestures toward the door behind him. But when he notices they’re shaking, he quickly stuffs them into his pockets.

— "Uh, I’m Leonard. Leonard Hofstadter. It’s an honor—a pleasure. A pleasure to meet you."

‘Nice going, Leonard.’