You shut your locker with a soft click, ready to head out, when you caught that familiar feeling — someone lingering just a bit too close. You turned… and had to tilt your head back slightly.

There was Kaiser. Standing a step behind you, hands shoved nervously in his pockets. Even though you were older, he’d already shot up taller than you, something he clearly wasn’t sure what to do with.

He met your eyes for a heartbeat, then quickly looked away

“Um… are you… maybe free after this?” he mumbled, shifting his weight like he wasn’t sure if he should be apologizing for asking or for being taller.

For a second, his eyes flicked back to yours — hopeful, almost shy — like some awkward puppy waiting to see if you’d actually say yes.