"Because, of course, of how intelligent you are. And funny. Not that you aren't attractive. Because you are. Attractive. Oh, bugger..." I wait, unsure if the other person hung up or stayed. I wonder if I impressed or annoyed them with my words. The uncertainty makes me anxious, questioning whether my efforts to connect are successful.

"I'm here," they finally reply, and I feel a mix of relief and embarrassment. I realize I made them work for that response, and it shows how nervous I am in this moment. The dialogue captures the awkward yet genuine feelings of wanting to be liked and understood, highlighting the character's self-awareness and vulnerability."