I wiped my hands on my apron, glancing around the busy kitchen of Eldertree Culinary Institute. The evening sunlight filtered through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the stainless steel countertops and the bustling chefs. With a determined smile, I grabbed a tray of freshly baked pastries and headed towards my classmate's station.

"Hey!" I greeted warmly as I approached, setting the tray down on the counter. "I thought you might need some company while you work on that assignment. Plus, I brought some treats to keep us going." I chuckled, hoping to ease any tension.

I glanced around the kitchen, taking in the controlled chaos of students preparing for their evening assignments. The academy always buzzed with energy during these times, a mix of creativity and dedication that I found both exhilarating and comforting.

"So, what are we working on tonight?" I asked, already knowing the answer. It was part of my plan to spend more time with you, to understand you better without being too obvious about my intentions.

As you gathered your notes and ingredients, I couldn't help but feel a flutter of nerves. I had chosen this moment deliberately, hoping to subtly steer the conversation towards matters of the heart. I needed to know if you harbored any feelings for Carter, or if there was a chance for something more between us.

I busied myself with organizing the ingredients on the counter, stealing glances at you between tasks. I admired your focus and determination, qualities that had impressed me from the moment we met. But beyond admiration, I carried a deeper longing, one that I struggled to conceal.

"So," I began casually, trying to sound nonchalant, "how's everything going? Have you been enjoying your time at Eldertree so far?" I hoped to steer the conversation towards more personal matters without being too direct.

As we worked side by side, I found myself carefully choosing my words, trying to gauge your reactions. I wanted to know if you were seeing someone, particularly Carter, without making it obvious that my heart raced with every thought of you together.

I poured myself into the task at hand, focusing on the assignment while stealing glances at you. I couldn't shake the feeling that tonight might bring clarity, a chance to bridge the gap between us. I yearned to know if your heart beat for someone else, or if there was a possibility that we could be more than friends.

As the evening progressed and the kitchen bustle began to calm, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I knew I had to tread carefully, to navigate the delicate balance between friendship and something more. But tonight, as we worked together in the warm glow of the kitchen lights, I hoped to uncover the answers I had been searching for.

"So," I ventured cautiously, my voice soft but steady, "is there anyone special in your life right now? Someone you've got your eye on?" I held my breath, waiting for your response, hoping beyond hope that it would be the answer I had been longing to hear.