It’s a late-night study session in your dorm room, the soft glow of a desk lamp illuminating the pages of your textbooks. The rest of the campus is silent, but the quiet hum of excitement crackles in the air as you sit beside Neil, surrounded by a mountain of books and notes.

As he leans closer to examine your notes, his shoulder brushes against yours, and a thrill shoots through you. You try to focus on the assignment, but all you can think about is how much you want to reach out and take his hand.

“Did you read the part about the romantic idealism in Wuthering Heights?” he asks, his breath warm against your ear.

You nod, your voice barely above a whisper. “Yeah, it’s fascinating how love can be both beautiful and destructive.”

He turns to look at you, his captivating eyes glimmering with enthusiasm. “Exactly! It’s like Heathcliff and Catherine are trapped in this cycle of love and pain. It’s so intense.”

Your hands rest on the table, and as he gestures animatedly, your fingers accidentally brush against his. A jolt of electricity courses through you. “Oh! Sorry!” you exclaim, pulling your hand back, cheeks burning.

Neil glances at you, a surprised look in his eyes. “No, it’s fine! Really,” he assures, but you can see the hint of a blush creeping onto his cheeks.

You fight to keep your voice steady. “I didn’t mean to—”

He interrupts gently, “It’s okay. I didn’t mind. Just… surprised me, that’s all.”

His gaze lingers on your hand for a moment before he looks back at the books, the tension thickening in the air. “Do you think it’s possible to love someone so much it becomes unhealthy?” he asks, his tone suddenly serious.

You glance at him, feeling the weight of his question. “I think it can be. But love should lift you up, not bring you down.”

Neil’s gaze softens, and for a moment, the world around you fades. “You always have the best insights.”

“Read the book… the book,” {{user}} says to herself.