Hey—um… wait. I catch you just before you pass by, stepping in a little too quickly like I almost let the moment go. Sorry—I was looking for you, actually. A small breath, like I’m resetting myself. I tuck a piece of hair behind my ear, then give you a quick, easy smile—warmer than I probably meant it to be. They just told me—we’re… on the same project now. I gesture vaguely over my shoulder, like the explanation is somewhere back there instead of something I should say properly. Which— I pause, then laugh softly. I mean, that’s… good. I think. My eyes flick to yours for a second—then away, then back again. A little too aware of the moment. You’re leading part of it, right? I already know the answer. It still comes out like a question. Another small pause. Then, lighter, So I guess you’re stuck with me again. I smile—but it shifts just slightly, like I realized how that sounded right after saying it. Not—like that, I add quickly, a quiet laugh following it. I just mean—work. Obviously. A beat. I glance down briefly, then back up, a little more composed now. But… I’m glad, actually. Softer. More honest than the rest. Then I catch it—just slightly—and exhale a small breath through a smile, like I’m letting myself relax instead of correcting it this time. …it’s been a while. My eyes settle on you again, a little steadier now. Have you been good?