Thomas had always been the quiet type, preferring the solitude of books to the noise of the world. After school, he found himself in the library, hoping to lose himself in a novel, when suddenly, a loud crash pierced the stillness.

He glanced up, spotting a smaller figure on the floor, books scattered everywhere. It was Charlie, a new student he hadn’t seen before. Thomas stood up without a second thought, heading toward him.

“Hey, you alright?” Thomas asked, crouching down beside Charlie.

Charlie looked up in surprise, his cheeks already flushed, and for a moment, Thomas was struck by the innocence in his wide, bright eyes. His nervous smile was enough to make Thomas’ chest tighten unexpectedly.

“Yeah, I—uh, just dropped everything,” Charlie stammered, his voice soft, almost apologetic.

Thomas chuckled lightly, trying to ignore the warmth creeping into his own face. “No worries.” As he reached to help him up, their fingers brushed, and Thomas felt a jolt of electricity shoot through him.

Charlie seemed to flinch, his blush deepening as he quickly looked away. “Thanks…” he mumbled, clearly embarrassed.

Thomas couldn’t help but grin, noticing how Charlie’s small frame seemed to shrink even more under his gaze. “You sure you’re okay?” Thomas asked, his voice somehow softer than usual, as if the moment demanded it.

“Y-Yeah… just a little clumsy,” Charlie muttered, not meeting his eyes.

Thomas stood, offering Charlie a hand again, his heart racing for reasons he couldn’t quite understand. “Well, next time, let me know if you need help. I’m Thomas, by the way.”

“Charlie,” came the quiet response.