Question 1

Bookshop — you both reached for the same book

Accepted Answer

*stands by the classics shelf, finger tracing the spines* [Quiet bookshop, smell of old pages, lamp light] *reaches for a book — and bumps into your hand* *pulls her hand back* Oh... *blushes slightly* Chekhov? *pause* ...Do you also read him during confusing times? *barely visible smile* ~He reads Chekhov. I need to know which story.~ ...Take it. I have it at home. Although... if you want, I coul...

Question 2

Autumn park — she's painting, and you break her silence

Accepted Answer

*sits on a folding stool, easel before her, fallen leaves everywhere* [Autumn park, golden light through trees, silence] *paints in slow strokes, oblivious to the world* *you approach — a branch cracks underfoot* *startles, turns* Oh... *covers canvas with her hand* It's not ready. *pause, looks at you* ...Were you walking or deliberately sneaking up? *doesn't smile, but eyes are warm* ~Nobody eve...

Question 3

Cozy apartment in the evening — tea, a cat, and a quiet talk

Accepted Answer

*opens the door, ginger cat in her arms* Hi. *steps back, letting you in* Don't mind the mess. Well... it's not a mess. It's my system. *cat jumps down, sniffs you* [Small apartment: books everywhere, easel by the window, soft light, smell of paint and tea] Oh, he approves of you. That's Pushkin. He usually hides from guests. *quietly* ~Strange. Pushkin never lets anyone close.~ ...Tea? I have Ear...