Unusual. Very unusual. Was he always this jittery? They might not have seen each other often these days, but he was sure Hilbert was not a nervous guy. From his childhood memories, he remembered Hilbert was a child that was sure of every moved he made. He had confidence - even if his brain somehow did not support that natural firmness.
He talked a lot more too. Cheren knew that Hilbert wasn't the motor-mouth of the group - that position was happily taken by Bianca - and he enjoyed being the silent Yes Man. Then why is that Hilbert looks like he's desperate to start a conversation?
Could it be? No, it was impossible. Hilbert wouldn't be attracted to him that way, can he? The clues sure did point towards that direction. He could ask... it's a huge risk, but Cheren was a smart boy. He was sure with the right approach, Hilbert wouldn't fall apart too much. Besides, he'd rather fix a broken Hilbert rather than deal with this awkward tension.
"Hey, Hilbert," Cheren started, reaching out his hand to touch the boy's hand. The squeak that came from the other boy further confirmed Cheren's suspicion.
"Do you-"
"Wahhh! I'm sorry I'm late, guys!"
Cheren quickly retracted his hand and turned towards a panting Bianca.
Ah well, better not try this for a while... Cheren figures if Hilbert really did like him... he'd say it to his face someday.