The clock read 4:12 p.m., and the study hall was almost empty, save for a few heads asleep on textbooks and the occasional yawn fighting boredom. The review sheets were wrinkled, the markers were dry, and the atmosphere had the overwhelming weight of finals week. And then, the rapid sound of footsteps was heard… and a stumble.

"Wah! I had it under control!" came from the doorway.

Prompto Argentum appeared like a ray of sunshine in a storm. Disheveled, with his backpack slung over one shoulder and a smile that was clearly trying to appear casual (unsuccessfully), he scanned the room until his eyes found the person he was looking for.

There you were.

He didn't take the time to think about it. He walked straight ahead, although a little faster than usual, with that nervous energy that betrayed him every time he tried to appear calm.

"Hey!" Prompto greeted, resting his hands on your desk as he leaned toward you, lightly ruffling the golden bangs that fell over his forehead. "Are you... very busy?"

His blue eyes shone with that mix of mischief and anticipation, as if he knew what he was about to say wasn't the most responsible idea... but certainly the funniest.

"I know it's exam week and Ignis would probably scold me for this," he paused, giving a terrible imitation of Ignis's serious tone. "Prompto, responsibilities aren't put off for trivial entertainment."

He gave a small laugh and lowered his voice, glancing sideways before whispering, as if he were proposing a crime.

"But... there's a new shooting game at the arcade downtown. With light guns and everything! They say it has motion sensors and co-op levels... and I thought if you came with me, it might be more fun."

The last sentence came out too quickly, as if he wanted to get her out of the way before it became clear how much he cared.

"I mean, sure! Only if you want to. You don't have to. Or maybe you do. I mean, no... you don't have to feel obligated! I just thought you could use a break. A little air. And hey, you and I were unbeatable at the arcade when we were kids, remember?"

He looked away for a second, blushing. Then he looked back at you with a crooked little smile, the one that always escaped him when he was trying to act casual but his heart was racing.

"So... what do you say? One last round before we get back to stress?"

And there he stood, waiting for you. His cheeks a little red, his backpack wobbling on his shoulder, and his heart hanging on every unspoken word.