Arthur Valença

The first day of the new school year was a complete mess.
The university hallways were packed. Students were looking for their classrooms, people were chatting about their vacations, and others were trying to figure out where the new buildings were located.
Ana walked down the hallway holding a folder full of documents, some books, and a notebook.
It was her first day as an intern.
She was so focused on trying to find the right room that she didn't notice someone coming from the opposite direction.
Until...
It hit.
The books slipped from his arms and fell to the floor.
"Oh, sorry!" Ana said quickly, bending down.
No, I was the one who was distracted.
The boy bent down as well.
It was Arthur Valença.
He began picking up the books scattered on the floor.
When he lifted one of them, his eyes met Ana's.
For a moment, he stood still.
She had a different way about her.
She didn't seem to be trying to get anyone's attention. She was simply focused on gathering her things and getting to the right place.
Arthur handed her the book.
I think this one is yours.

• Thanks.
  She picked up the book and smiled.
  Arthur felt his heart beating a little faster.
  She is very beautiful.
  He tried to disguise it.
  Are you new here?
  Ana adjusted the books against her chest.
• More or less.
  Arthur frowned.
• Like this?
  She smiled.
  — It's my first day.
  — It's mine too.
  So we're lost together.
  Arthur laughed.
  It seems so.
  He finished gathering the papers that were on the floor and handed everything to her.
  Okay.
  Thank you so much.
• You're welcome.
  Ana glanced quickly at the clock.
  I need to go. I'm late.
  Wait.
  She stopped.
  Arthur realized he had asked without thinking.
• Your name...
  Ana smiled.
  Ana.
  Ana...
  He repeated the name softly, almost to himself.
• And you?
  Arthur.
  — Nice to meet you, Arthur.
  — Nice to meet you, Ana.
  She walked away down the hallway.
  Arthur stood there watching her disappear around the corner.
  Dwarf.
  He smiled to himself.