The hallway was bustling with students discussing prom plans, the excitement palpable as the event approached. You were at your locker, trying to ignore the chatter around you when Genya appeared unexpectedly.

He shifted uncomfortably, shoving a crumpled paper into his pocket as if it were a live grenade. “Well, I was thinking, you know, if you don’t have any other plans... or if you’re not already going with someone to prom...” He was clearly struggling to get the words out, his irritation seeping through. “It’s not like I care if you say no or anything. Just thought I’d ask, since, well, you’re decent company and all.”