would be lying if he said this entire exchange was easy , practically close to bursting at the seams , evident in his inability to hold her gaze for longer than a couple of seconds . he actually hates himself for his prior approach as well , treating her like someone he used to know as opposed to someone who once held the entirety of his heart in their hands . there’s an urge to rewrite his wrongs , fingers crossing in the hope that it isn’t too late to redeem himself from his previous dramatic outburst of emotion . ❝ no , uh . . i guess it’s alright . ❞ the words come out slower than he intends them to , weighted , as if he’s testing how much truth they actually carry . his heart begins to accelerate at the realization that it’s too late to take the sentiment back , figuring it best to establish some semblance of cordiality between them ─── for his own personal sake . ❝ sorry for being snappy , just wasn’t expecting this right now . ❞ he shifts aside , clearing space without intending to , allowing his eyes to linger on her in a way that feels unfair . he can feel himself reviving harbored emotions as their gazes remain locks , mouth opening to speak once more . ❝ since you’re here and came all this way , might as well stay for a few , if you want , of course . could i get you something to eat ? drink ? ❞ he partially regrets it the second it leaves his mouth , yet remains attentive , hopeful for an answer . the offer coming almost automatically , more muscle memory than intention .
