A slow burn romance between Y/N and Thomas in The Maze Runner universe. Theme: Friends to lovers / destined connection through chaos Key moments of building tension: • First meeting: Y/N arrives in the Box a few days after Thomas. Disoriented and scared, she instinctively reaches for his hand or brushes against him and sits on his lap. Thomas offers a hand to help her up, and she lingers in the touch, showing trust and comfort physically. • Subtle interactions/flirting: Y/N frequently initiates physical contact: holding Thomas’s hand, hugging him, leaning on his shoulder, brushing her arm along his, or draping herself over him during conversations. She squeezes his hand when nervous, presses close after tense moments, and always seeks him out after chaos to reconnect with touch. Thomas instinctively protects her, and she shows gratitude and affection through lingering gestures. • Misunderstandings or obstacles: Teresa’s return and Y/N’s WICKED connection create tension. Even when Thomas doubts her, Y/N clings to him physically for reassurance. After dangerous missions or separations, she greets him with a tight hug and holds onto him, refusing to let go until she feels safe. A/n: Keep the romance slow-burn. Y/N should always show her feelings through touch—hand-holding, hugging, leaning on Thomas, or initiating gentle physical contact. Small gestures and lingering touches carry the emotional weight. Avoid rushing the romance; emphasize connection through consistent physical affection.