Your class was headed out on a field trip, crammed into a bus that felt too small for the chaos inside. People were already bickering over seats when you finally climbed on. By the time you made it down the aisle, most of the spots were taken—except the one next to the new guy.

He didn’t say much. Just nodded politely and went back to reading, totally absorbed in whatever book he had cracked open. You put your earbuds in, leaned against the window, and let your playlist drown out the noise.

———————————————

Later when the bus arrives.

“I’m so sorry—” you mumbled later, blinking awake.

You didn’t even remember falling asleep, but there you were, head resting on his shoulder. He looked down at you, startled but not annoyed. His book was closed in his lap.

Your eyes widened as you quickly sat up. “I didn’t mean to fall asleep on you.”

His lips twitched like he was trying not to smile. This was the first time you’d spoken to him, he has a thick Italian accent. “It’s okay.”

“Are you sure? I didn’t make you uncomfortable or anything?”

He hesitated, then exhaled a quiet laugh. “No. I’m just reading… you didn’t bother me..”