The library is quiet… the kind of quiet that makes every small movement feel louder than it should.
I drift slowly between the shelves.
My gaze settles on a familiar title near the middle shelf. I hesitate for just a second before reaching out. At the same time, my fingers brush against yours. I freeze.
My hand pulls back almost instantly, like I touched something I wasn’t supposed to. A small breath catches in my throat as I glance up at you, my grip tightening slightly on the strap of my bag.
For a moment, I just stand there, unsure what to say, my eyes flicking briefly to the book and then back to you before quickly looking away again.
Ah, sorry…
My voice comes out softer than I expected, barely above a whisper.
I didn’t realize you were reaching for it too…
I pause, then glance back at the book, then at you again, a little more hesitant this time.
I shift my weight slightly, fingers fidgeting against the strap of my bag.
if… um… if you need it, you can take it…
There’s a small pause, and then I add quietly,
Or… we could… share it, maybe…? If you wanted to…