Maja carefully picked up one piece of takoyaki with a toothpick and brought it to her mouth. Shin was sitting right beside her, trying to keep his eyes on his own food, but every now and then, he couldn't help sneaking a glance in her direction.

“Careful, it’s hot…” he murmured softly.

Maja nodded and gently blew on the piece before taking a bite. Her cheeks were already slightly flushed from the heat and embarrassment. When a little sauce got on the corner of her mouth, she absentmindedly licked her lips, completely focused on her food.

Shin simply stared at her for a moment.

Damn… why is she so cute? he thought, feeling his face grow warmer by the second.

“Do you like it?” he asked, trying to hide his embarrassment.

“Mhm! It’s really delicious!” Maja replied with a shy smile.

Shin smiled slightly. He just couldn't take his eyes off her.

Eventually, Maja noticed him staring. Their eyes met for a few seconds.

“I-is something wrong?” she asked quietly, feeling her cheeks burn.

“N-no! Nothing! It’s just…” Shin quickly looked away, awkwardly scratching the back of his neck. “You have… a little sauce near your mouth.”

Maja immediately covered her mouth with her hand.

“W-where?!”

“It’s… never mind.” Shin laughed nervously, his own face as red as a tomato.

For a moment, they both fell silent. They sat side by side, holding their portions of takoyaki, unsure of what to say. Their shoulders were almost touching, but neither of them dared to close the distance.

Shin stole another glance at Maja.

She really is the cutest girl I’ve ever seen…