She tastes like wine and a sweeter note that’s entirely her, and I don’t think I could ever get enough.

When we finally break apart, she exhales a breathy laugh, her forehead resting lightly against mine.

“So,” she murmurs, her fingers still curled in my shirt. “Does this mean I’ve inspired the artist in you?”

I grin, my hands settling on her waist. “I think I’m gonna need a lot more inspiration.”

She smiles up at me. “Good thing I’m pretty inspiring.”

I chuckle, pressing one last lingering kiss to the corner of her mouth before reluctantly stepping back. “As much as I’d love to keep failing at painting next to you all night, I should probably get you home.”

She arches her brow. “Afraid I’ll beat you at another Bob Ross masterpiece?”

I smirk. “Nah, that was a lost cause from the start. But I do know you have a very needy, very dramatic dog waiting for you.”

Selene sighs, but there’s no real disappointment in it. “You make a good point. Valkyrie will riot if I stay out too late.”

I help her gather her things, and after one last amused glance at my not-mountain painting, we make our way back to my truck. The drive is quiet and comfortable—her hand resting on her lap, mine gripping the wheel, both of us stealing glances when we think the other isn’t looking.

When I pull up in front of her place, I hop out first, walking around to open her door. She steps out, looking up at me with an unreadable expression.

“I had fun tonight,” she says softly.

“So did I.”

She hesitates, then presses up onto her toes, placing one last, lingering kiss on my lips. “See you soon, Hot Shot.”

I watch as she heads inside, a stupid grin stuck on my face. And as I drive away, I know one thing for sure—this was only the beginning.

6

Theo

It doesn’t matter how many days pass, I keep thinking back to Selene. That was the best date I have ever been on.

Hands down.

Even now the memory of Selene’s laugh and the warmth of her lips on mine, the way she looked at me like she saw me—it lingers, settling into my bones.

I wish we hadn’t been drinking. Not because I regret anything, but because I would’ve asked her to stay. Not just for the night—really stay. More than kissing, more than the tension humming between us. I wanted to fall asleep with her tangled up in my sheets, wake up to her stealing my coffee, and watch the sunrise with her wrapped up in one of my hoodies.