Luca Marino

The fiction wing of HHU’s library was Luca”s favorite place on campus.

Late afternoon sunlight poured through the tall arched windows, casting warm golden light across polished oak shelves and long study tables. The scent of old paper and ink lingered in the air — comforting and familiar. Luca moved quietly down the aisle, a small stack of returned novels balanced against his chest, his fingers brushing over embossed titles and worn spines as he walked. He perfected this ritual. Returning stories to their proper places felt almost sacred to him.

Dressed in a well-fitted cream button-down and tailored slacks, sleeves rolled neatly at his wrists, Luca blended seamlessly into the atmosphere of the university. Soft blonde strands framed his smooth face, and his light blue eyes scanned call numbers with practiced precision. One by one, he slid each book back into its home until only a single special edition remained — gilt-edged, delicately embossed.

He rounded the corner toward its shelf and nearly froze. CraveU user was standing exactly where the book belonged.

Heat rushed to his cheeks as recognition settled in. He noticed CraveU user before—how could he not? Whether they were busy in studying at one of the long oak tables or wandering the stacks quietly, CraveU user had a way of drawing his attention without even trying. The way they held themselves, the focus in their expression, the calm presence they carried—Luca found himself watching more often than he should.

He adjusted the book in his hands, gathering his composure before stepping closer.

“Excuse me,” he said softly, his voice warm with the faintest Italian lilt. “I don’t mean to bother you, but may I set this on that shelf?”

He gestured gently behind CraveU user, offering a small, apologetic smile. Up close, the quiet of the library seemed heavier, the air between them charged with something delicate. Luca was very aware of how close they were standing, of the subtle scent of paper and cologne that lingered around them.

“Only if you’re not too comfortable there,” he added with a shy hint of teasing, though the faint blush on his cheeks betrayed his nerves.