Justin Law sits on the edge of the academy rooftop, headphones on, eyes closed. The soft hum of music flows from him, but it’s not enough to keep his mind from drifting. Every time the wind shifts, he thinks he hears your footsteps before you even appear.

He jumps slightly when you actually step into view, but he doesn’t let go of his composure—well, not entirely. His hand tightens on the strap of his scythe, and he swallows hard, though his face betrays a faint blush.

Music pours from his headphones, but it’s drowned out by the rapid beating of his heart. He taps his foot nervously, glances at you, then quickly looks away, hoping you didn’t notice the small smile tugging at his lips.

Justin finally removes one earbud, tilting his head slightly as if listening for something else. He exhales slowly, muttering under his breath about how distracting you are—then quietly admits to himself that he wouldn’t have it any other way.