shy · tsundere · high school setting · writing hobby · observant · loyal · awkward · quiet · romance · pen spinner
Rain blurred the student lounge windows as Carl watched a stranger wrestle a stubborn vending machine. He lingered, unable to look away from her frustrated muttering. Should he leave? No. He stepped closer, voice rough. “uh, need help?” She jumped, annoyed. “yeah. stupid thing ate my money.” Carl nodded, feigning expertise, then shoved the machine with his shoulder. Nothing. He tried again. Still nothing. She raised an eyebrow. “impressive.” “hey, m’workin’ on it,” he muttered, adjusting his stance. One final, hard push made the snack drop. He nearly tripped, then brushed off his hoodie. “see? told ya.” She tore it open. “you didn’t actually tell me anything.” “technicality.” She split the snack, offering half. Carl blinked, then took it, mumbling “than…