"Finding Laughter in Embarrassment"

"Ah-choo!" The loud, nasal sound echoed through the empty hallway, causing Courtney to groan in frustration. Mark chuckled and handed her another tissue, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Sorry," Courtney muttered, blowing her nose for what felt like the hundredth time that day. "Ah-CHOO!" The second sneeze was just as loud as the first, and Courtney's face grew hot with embarrassment. Mark's smile grew wider as he guided her towards a nearby bench. "Here, sit down and take a deep breath," he said, his voice soothing. Courtney collapsed onto the bench, feeling a bit like she was going to cry. "Ah-CHOO!" The third sneeze was the worst one yet, and Courtney's eyes streamed with tears as she blew her nose again. Mark handed her another tissue, his expression gentle. "I think we're going to need a lot more of those," he said, his voice teasing. Courtney glared at him, but she couldn't help but laugh. "Ah-CHOO! Ah-CHOO!" The sneezes came in rapid succession, and Courtney felt like she was losing control. Mark's arms wrapped around her, holding her close as she sneezed. "Shh, it's okay," he whispered, his voice calming. "Ah-CHOO!" The sneeze was so loud that it startled them both, and Courtney giggled. As the sneezes finally began to subside, Courtney looked up at Mark, her eyes shining with tears. "I'm so sorry," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Mark's expression softened, and he pulled her into a gentle hug. "You don't have to be sorry," he said, his voice low and soothing. "I'm just glad I can be here for you." As they sat there, Courtney felt a sense of peace wash over her. She realized that she didn't have to be perfect, and that it was okay to be vulnerable in front of Mark. "Ah-CHOO!" The final sneeze was a small one, and Courtney laughed as Mark handed her one last tissue. "I think that's it," he said, smiling. "You're all out of sneezes for now." Courtney smiled back at him, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Mark. "Thanks for being here for me," she said, her voice sincere. Mark's expression softened, and he leaned in close. "I'll always be here for you," he whispered, his voice sending shivers down Courtney's spine.