Theo glances down at it, his smirk deepening. “Oh wow. No creases, no smudges—this is a serious commitment. Looks brand new.”

“That’s because it is,” I admit, brushing my fingers over the crisp paper. “I haven’t drawn with pencil and paper in a long time. Everything’s been digital recently.”

His gaze lingers on me, thoughtful like he’s picking up on a truth I didn’t mean to show.

“Well,” he says, tilting his head. “I’m honored to witness this momentous occasion.” Then, without missing a beat, he grins. “So, are you gonna draw me like one of your French girls, or…?”

I burst out laughing, shaking my head. “Absolutely not.”

Theo gasps dramatically. “Wow. Shot down immediately, you aren’t even going to pretend to think about it?”

“Somehow, I think your ego will survive.”

Theo exhales, then tilts his head toward me. “You know, I was going to be smooth about this, but—let me take you out.”

I blink. The easy confidence in his voice catches me off guard. No games, no hesitation. He just puts it out there.

“Out?”

“On a date, Selene.” He takes a deliberate step closer, the warmth of his presence making my skin prickle. “You know, a thing where two people who clearly like flirting with each other go somewhere and get to know one another better? You’ve heard of those, right?”

I cross my arms, pretending to think. “Hmm. I don’t know… you do talk a big game, Hot Shot. Can you back it up? I’d hate to waste my time on something mediocre.”

Theo’s eyes narrow playfully. “Oh, come on. What do I have to do to prove myself? Let Valkyrie tackle me into the lake to prove my worth in some dramatic display of manly sacrifice?”

I glance at the water pretending to consider it. “That would be entertaining.”

“I’m sure it would.” He drops his voice just enough to send a shiver down my spine. The way he stares into my eyes makes it impossible to look away. “Please. Say yes, Selene.”

I should say no. I should keep things uncomplicated, especially after how my last relationship ended. I’ve always been careful, always the one to walk away first. But… I don’t want to. Not this time.

“Fine,” I say, rolling my eyes for good measure. “One date.”

Theo’s grin is immediate, victorious. “You won’t regret it.”

I shake my head, but I can’t fight my smile. “We’ll see about that, Hot Shot.”

Walking along the lake we find a picnic table near the water, the sun warms the wood beneath us. Valkyrie, thoroughly soaked, sprawls beside us on the ground, panting happily.