It was loud in the café — students everywhere, music humming under the chatter — but when Ruby excused herself to answer a call, everything suddenly felt quieter.

You stayed behind with your drink, scrolling without really reading anything.

Kieran spotted you the second Ruby stepped away. He froze mid-step in the doorway, hands tucked in his pockets, eyes flickering from your table to the floor and back. You were alone. For once.

He inhaled slowly. Okay. Now or never.

Kieran walked over, every move careful like he was afraid to disturb something fragile.

“Hey,” he said, barely above the noise, offering a small, awkward wave.

You looked up — and his ears went a little pink.