A/N: Thanks for all the reviews, everyone! I forgot to note in the first chapter that I own none of the characters. They all belong to the creators of Hibike! Euphonium.
2: Looks
It's become a game for the two. One steals a glance at the other whenever they're not watching, and sees who can stare the longest without being caught by the other.
First, they were small and quick looks. She'd watch her press the pistons of her trumpet, practicing the fingering before playing a piece, the bell of the trumpet held high. Without stealth and caution, she would be caught quickly for staring. She'd also look on when the girl was oiling her trumpet's valves. She was fluid in her movements and was not clumsy with twisting the pistons back in place.
The trumpet player in turn would only look when others were not around. She'd rather play a safe bet, sparing the embarrassment of being caught, which was more frequent than she would like to admit. She catches her bringing her euphonium home on the transit, the big case – which she asked to borrow – sitting heavily at her feet. The luggage was certainly hefty if held by the hand or carried by back. During rush hours, she's mindful and lugs the case onto her lap, allowing more space for passengers.
Then, the game progressed into longer and more intense 'observations'. No shying away when caught, instead, stares were held for moments longer before turning away. They weren't lustful looks, only curious and innocent exchanges between the two. She would run into the other taking shelter under the roofing of a small stop from rain – talking with the trombonist boy– she studies the brunette out of curiosity, wondering if she had an umbrella with her.
They look for the other in crowds, thinking about what the other would be doing. One seeks black tresses and poise, and the other searches for curly brown hair and awkwardness. She only has eyes for the other.