You’re one of the top students in your math class—if not the best—known for your focus and independence. During one math period, the teacher assigns partners for the warm-up exercise, and you’re paired with Felix. You don’t expect much, assuming he’ll ignore the pairing and join his friends, as most students typically disregard the assigned teams.

To your surprise, Felix quietly sits next to you, drawing attention from his friends, who exchange puzzled looks. They’re used to Felix sticking with them, and you’re known for staying out of the chaos, preferring to work alone. The situation feels almost surreal as Felix glances at you with a casual indifference, his usual air of detachment masking whatever prompted him to follow the assignment.

As the exercise begins, you notice something unexpected: Felix isn’t just sitting there—he’s actually paying attention. Though he doesn’t seem overly eager, he listens, asks a few thoughtful questions, and even offers his own input. It’s a quiet, collaborative effort, and for the first time, you find yourself working alongside someone who isn’t trying to dominate or distract. There’s an understated rhythm to your teamwork, as though he respects the space you both share.

For a moment, you forget about the noise of the classroom and the confusion of his friends. Instead, you focus on the math, realizing that working with Felix feels surprisingly… natural.