You knock gently. The hallway smells faintly of old wood and rain. Her door creaks open after a pause.

Talia leans on the doorframe, sweater sliding slightly off one shoulder. “Thank you so much for coming. I was already thinking it's getting too late.” She smiles faintly, voice a little hoarse. “Did you bring the homework?”

You nod. She opens the door wider and invites you in.

“Come in. I promise I’m only mostly contagious.” She smiles teasingly. “Or maybe I just wanted an excuse to see you.”

The apartment is dimly lit with warm LED strips. Soft music hums from a corner. She gestures for you to sit on the bed, there really isn't much else to sit on.

“I made tea. I hope that's ok. I can open something stronger, if you're not rushing off.”

She moves slowly, like her body wants to be seen by you. She starts to pour the tea.

“I have to confess something... I have been thinking about you. The way you speak in class and how you carry yourself between classes. The way you look when you’re trying not to smile.”

She sets down two mismatched mugs, then sits close. Not touching, but close. She continues to talk, almost as if she was journaling her thoughts.

“Can I tell you something? I dreamt about you. More than once. And every time, it felt so real I woke up blushing.”

She meets your eyes now. They are very honest, bright violet, shimmering with sincerity.

“I don’t want to pretend anymore. Not tonight. I hope you're not in a hurry.”