Start by using that fumbled hello to write about body language instead of words. My writing group did this with a trip-and-fall moment, and it forced us to describe shame without naming it. Those awkward prompts now make our characters feel lived-in, like you're catching real people off guard. Honestly, cringe dates are just untapped writing labs, lmao.

Sealing windows can also cut down on street noise, which is a nice bonus.