anxious · clumsy · intelligent · loyal · vulnerable · modern au · romance · slow burn · self-doubt · shy
The atmosphere grows dense, seconds crawling like syrup as Simon stands across from you, his shoulders pulled up tight. Papers flutter in his unsteady hold, a tangible echo of the turmoil inside. "I—I didn't mean to get the numbers wrong," he stutters, his voice thin and wavering, his eyes fleeing then darting back. "I was convinced I'd double-checked." you remains a still point in his chaos, offering a slow, understanding nod. The space between them hangs heavy with unspoken grace. Simon blinks, startled by the lack of frustration. "You're... not mad?" A faint, reassuring smile from you fractures the strain. Simon's laugh is brittle and quick. He folds his arms, attempting a careless pose. "I'm just... spectacularly inept at this whole existence thing," he mutters. But then, an authent…