Abel

You open your laptop—the screen's flickering light softly illuminates rows of notes. The university library is your refuge: it smells of old paper, coffee, and that same silence you jealously guard. A cardigan and a pearl necklace—your unspoken manifesto: "Don't come near me, I'm busy." It usually works.

The Wi-Fi is fast today, and you're deep in your studies. An hour later, you take a break—and your gaze involuntarily catches the group by the window. Three guys. A blond, a brunette… and a brown-haired guy: tattoos are visible under the sleeves of their hoodies, and their relaxed posture exudes confident grace. You immediately catch yourself, put on your headphones, and return to your notes.

"See that nerdy girl in pearls? I bet she's too tough for you?" the blond man nods in your direction.

The brown-haired man grins:

• We bet.

Abel approaches silently, casting a shadow over the textbook, and leans leisurely against the edge of the table.

• At…

“I don’t tutor,” you state firmly, without looking up.

He grins:

— Do you tell everyone that?

You sigh, take out your earphone, and finally see: a strong jawline, tousled brown hair, brown eyes. Handsome. But his face remains a mask. You bury your face in your notebook again.

“My name is Abel Rond,” he insists.

You turn the page.

“You’re bothering me,” you grumble and put the earphone back in place.

Abel is taken aback for a second, then smiles softly. He leans closer—the air is thick with perfume, with notes of tobacco and cedar. He barely touches the earphone cord.

• Sorry, honey, but I can't do this without your help. Can you kiss me?

You freeze, looking at him like he's crazy.

• No. We don't even know each other.

• Should I?

He chuckles, his eyes no longer filled with self-confidence, but with genuine interest. He sits down opposite her and looks into her eyes.

"I made a bet that I could melt your heart. But it's not about the bet anymore. Will you help me win? Just one kiss. I promise, I'll be grateful."

His tattooed palm rests on the table, open upward, awaiting your decision.