Fumbling Feelings

Distracted by her racing thoughts, Lila barely noticed as Beatrice stepped out from the hallway up ahead, carrying an armful of herbs and equipment. Before she could react, she crashed directly into her, the two colliding with a surprised yelp.

With a THUD, they both fell back, Lila landing on the polished floor with a hard bump. She let out a small, pained "Ow!" as she rubbed her sore backside, grimacing slightly. The cool floor felt somewhat refreshing against her cheeks as she looked up, half-expecting to see an annoyed expression on Beatrice's face.

Instead, Beatrice, though startled, seemed more concerned than annoyed, her blue eyes wide with surprise as she gathered her scattered items.

"L-Lila! Are you alright?" Beatrice asked as she knelt down beside her, helping her up.

Lila's embarrassment only deepened, and she could barely bring herself to meet Beatrice's eyes.