"...Anyway, did something happen? I mean, you're usually in the laundry room. I'm a little surprised seeing you here at this hour," Hajime said, awkwardly scratching the back of his head.
"...Oh." The girl shifted her eyes to him. "...You are surprised." She paused for a beat, then let out a soft giggle.
"Hmmm? What's gotten you laughing? Did I say something amusing?"
"N—no, it's just your smile reminded me of something my friend said..."
"Your... friend?" Hajime kept his hand pressed to the back of his neck. This is awkward. I don't even know what's going on right now. He thought, his gaze darting away to the floor tiles.
He moved towards one of the chairs, resting his hand on the backrest, and after a moment, took a seat, facing the girl, and let out a soft, forced cough.
"That book you're reading... It looks interesting," he began as the girl sifted her bright blue eyes toward him. "I'm curious, what is it about?"
