In this excerpt from "Lola and the Boy Next Door" by Stephanie Perkins, a tender and emotional moment unfolds between two characters. One whispers softly, saying "Hi," indicating a gentle attempt at connection or reassurance. The other responds quietly, peeling away the first character's hands and turning away, suggesting a desire to avoid confrontation or feeling overwhelmed by the situation. The exchange reflects underlying tension and vulnerability.

The dialogue reveals a moment of intimacy and subtle emotional struggle. The second character's words, "Please don't make this any harder than it already is," imply that they are experiencing difficulty or distress, and they seek to navigate it with calmness. Overall, the scene captures a poignant moment of communication marked by unspoken feelings and delicate interactions.