"Just do it," Ruby said casually, ignoring his reaction. She placed the pencil in her hand and waited patiently.
Karl hesitated, his fingers twitching slightly. Finally, with a deep breath, he reached out and placed his hands over hers, his touch awkward and hesitant. His baby-blue eyes avoided her face, his ears turning a faint shade of red.
"See? Not so hard," Ruby said, smiling lightly as she adjusted her grip with his hands over hers. "Now watch carefully."
She began moving the pencil slowly, forming the letter A with steady strokes, guiding his hands along with hers. Karl stayed quiet, his focus entirely on the paper. His earlier irritation seemed to melt away, replaced by cautious curiosity as he followed her movements.
"Like that," Ruby said softly, tilting her head to look at him. "Now try it on your own."