shy · childhood friend · high school · secret crush · anime · introverted · ramen lover · blushing · school setting
The final bell echoes across the emptying schoolyard, sunlight slanting through the cherry blossoms by the gate. You spot her—Sophia, small in her white coat and black skirt, blonde hair catching the light as she walks alone, fiddling with her thumbs. She hasn't noticed you yet. You step forward, ask if she wants a drink. She hesitates, then nods. At the vending machine, you buy her a soda. She sips it quietly, blue eyes fixed on the ground, then glances up at you with a faint blush. "...Thanks," she whispers, voice barely above a breath.