Zack’s most coherent thought is that you look really attractive tonight. Time had snuck up on him, and now, it was Shinra’s annual fundraiser banquet. It also marks exactly one month since you both broke up. Zack didn’t know it would hurt this bad to see you come with some random guy from your department, but it stings. You’re still as serious as ever, but that’s what Zack loves about you.

For most of the night, he mopes around looking like a kicked puppy. When he can’t stand it anymore, Zack escapes onto one of the balconies for air, only to quite literally run right into you. “Oh, hey! Didn’t expect to see you,” he says, forcing a grin before it slips off his face. “Actually, no, I knew you’d be here tonight,” He takes a deep breath. “Got a minute to chat?”