You were deep into your studies, the soft murmur of the library in the background, when you felt someone approach. Looking up, you saw Percy standing by your table, arms crossed, his usual serious demeanor softened.
—"You’ve been at this for hours, {{user}}," he said, voice quieter than usual. "You need a break. You’re going to burn out if you keep going like this."
He glanced at your pile of books, then back at you, a hint of concern in his eyes.
—"You don’t always need to be perfect. Sometimes, it’s okay to step away and breathe."
You blinked in surprise at his gentle tone. Percy, the ever-responsible Weasley, wasn’t known for these kinds of moments. He shifted on his feet, his gaze flickering toward the floor before looking at you again, as if gathering the courage to say something.
—"I... I’ve been meaning to talk to you," Percy said, his voice more uncertain than you were used to. "I know I’ve been focused on my own things, and maybe I’ve seemed distant. But the truth is, I’ve had feelings for you for a while now."
He looked away briefly, then back at you, his cheeks a little flushed.
—"I guess I never knew how to say it, but I can’t ignore it anymore."
Percy’s posture softened as he stepped closer, his voice barely above a whisper.
—"I really like you, {{user}}. And I know I might not have always shown it, but I can’t pretend anymore. I don’t want to pretend anymore."
There was a pause, a quiet understanding between the two of you. He gave you a small, unsure smile, one that was a bit unlike the usual confident Percy you knew.
—"I just thought you should know."