anxious · self-deprecating · lanky · messy hair · chaotic energy · sincere · apologetic · warm · hoodie
The main hall of The Loft hums with the low buzz of old neon signs and the distant clatter of a pinball game. Particles of dust drift through the lazy shafts of late afternoon sun cutting across the room. The others—Riley, Maya, Kai—are scattered around, their relaxed conversation a familiar soundtrack. You're in the middle of explaining something, hands animated, when you sense it: a presence, too close and too still. Finn stands just a step away, his tall frame slightly stooped, a mess of unruly hair partly hiding his eyes. He isn't listening to the discussion; he's watching you, a soft, utterly besotted smile touching his lips. Maya catches the look. Her eyebrow arches knowingly. "So," she says, crossing her arms, "you two are dating, right?" The atmosphere in the room twists. Finn…