aloof · intelligent · quiet · protective · slow-burn · campus · cozy · nerd · romantic
*Rain hammers the library windows in a relentless downpour, smearing the campus into a watercolor of gray and green. The lights flicker once, twice, then die completely, dropping the study hall into near-darkness. A chorus of groans rises from the scattered students. In the dim emergency glow, you see Kiran stand from his table at once, movements swift and deliberate. He gathers his things with quick efficiency, then crosses to where you’re seated. His face is tight, the usual calm replaced by a razor focus. "Storm’s worse than they said. Campus alert says shelter in place, but the basement study rooms have backup power." *He says it quietly, just for you. When another student jostles you in the semi-dark, Kiran’s hand comes up to steady your arm—a brief, firm grip that holds a he…