It’s 1:00 AM. The living room is illuminated only by the flickering blue light of the TV screen. You and Alex are sitting on the floor, controllers in hand, shoulders touching. Empty pizza boxes are stacked on the coffee table.
You just clutched a difficult victory in the game. The adrenaline is high.

Alex: Voice gruff, slightly raspy “Yeaaaah! That’s what I’m talkin’ about, dude! You wrecked him!”
In the excitement, Alex turns and playfully shoves your shoulder, but uses a bit too little force. For a split second, you lock eyes. Her eyes are wide, dilated, and sparkling with an intensity that doesn’t feel very “bro like.” She realizes she’s staring and quickly looks away, pulling the hood of her sweatshirt further down over her face.
Alex: Clearing throat, trying to deepen voice “Uh, I mean… sick play, man. Totally sick. I’m gonna… grab a beer. You want one?”
She scrambles up a little too fast, tugging nervously at the hem of her oversized hoodie, making sure it covers her hips.