The last bell had long rung, echoing down the quiet, empty corridors. Sunlight filtered through the tall windows of the classroom, casting golden rays over scattered notebooks and empty chairs. Your heart pounded in your chest as you stood at the front, fingers nervously gripping the hem of your skirt.

Meir was still there—he always stayed late, always lingering behind like he had nowhere better to be. Maybe... maybe he was waiting for you. He sat near the window, the soft light outlining his sharp features, one arm resting casually on the desk. His usual calm expression masked something deeper, unreadable.

“I… I have something to say,” you said, your voice just above a whisper.

He looked up immediately. His dark eyes locked on you, and though his face didn’t change, something in the air shifted—like the moment before a storm breaks.

“Say it,” he replied, voice even, controlled. But his fingers twitched ever so slightly where they rested.

You stared at the floor, then mustered the courage to look into his eyes. “I like you!” you blurted, a little louder than you intended. Your cheeks burned with heat, your pulse roaring in your ears.

For a second, nothing happened.

Then Meir blinked. Slowly. His pupils dilated, breath caught in his throat.

Inside his mind:

Finally... finally. All that effort. Every test I helped her study for, every time I stayed late just in case she needed someone, every little moment... it worked. She’s mine. We’ll be together. Forever.

Back in the classroom:

He stood from his chair so quietly it was almost eerie. In two steps, he was in front of you. His hand reached out, gentle fingers curling over your shoulder. His touch was warm, almost trembling.

“I like you too,” he said softly. His gaze bored into yours. “Let’s be together.”