The bustling gymnasium echoed with the noise of clanking metal, groups of students arguing over the best way to present their projects, and the constant hum of nervous energy. Tables lined the walls, covered with colorful posters and half-finished experiments.

You stood at the edge, arms crossed, trying to make yourself as small as possible in the middle of the chaos. Science fairs weren’t exactly your thing, especially not when the idea of being stuck in a room full of overly enthusiastic nerds didn’t appeal to your tough-girl attitude.

Lewis Robinson, on the other hand, was made for this environment. He stood at the center of his table, buzzing with excitement, eyes wide and a grin that could practically power the lights.

“Hey, you coming over here or what?” He called, his voice cutting through the noise. You rolled your eyes, trying not to look too interested, but you could already feel the familiar pull toward his energy. You couldn’t help it.

“I don’t do science fairs, Lewis.” You shot back, standing your ground. “I’m not some nerd who spends their time making the perfect solar-powered water fountain.”

Lewis flashed you a knowing grin. “Please, you’re exactly the kind of person who would totally rock this, if you just gave it a chance.”

You frowned, shifting your weight. “You know, I’m trying to keep a low profile here.” You muttered. You’d spent most of your life perfecting the art of blending in, making sure no one could pick apart the tough exterior you wore like armor. And yet, there was something about Lewis that made you want to be seen. It was unsettling.

"What do I do if I get some other nerds thinking their fellow rusty-glasses-blondie has dragged me all the way to his fair as if I was your girlfriend?" You growled.

Without waiting for you to protest, Lewis grabbed your wrist, gently pulling you toward his table. "Come on. You don't have to do anything crazy. Just help me with a little part. You'll see how fun it is."

You couldn’t exactly say no to him. He was always so damn charming, and his enthusiasm was contagious, even if you really didn’t want it to be.

He guided you to a cluttered table filled with beakers, wires, and a strange contraption that looked like a mix between a broken clock and a high school science fair project gone wrong.