Page 69 of Paws & Order

"It wasn't a question."

I stare at the cupcake. The cupcake stares back. I'm pretty sure it's enchanted.

"I don't trust that look."

"It's harmless."

That is exactly what someone says before turning you into a frog.

Clover laughs. "It's not a love potion."

"Good."

"It just lowers inhibitions."

I pause. "That is not better."

"Relax." She waves a hand. "If you don't want the cupcake, don't eat it.”

I should leave it. Instead, I tuck it into my tote.

Clover grins like a woman who already knows how this story ends.

Outside, the wind smells like saltwater and rain. The walk back to Town Hall should clear my head. It doesn't. Because my phone buzzes again.

Cassian: Busy?

I type back before I can overthink it.

Me: You offering to help with the rough day?

The response comes immediately.

Cassian: Always.

Cassian: Dinner tonight? I'll bring something.

My stomach does an embarrassing little flip.

Three weeks ago, I would've spent an hour decoding that message. Now I know exactly what it means. He wants to see me. The realization still makes me smile.

Cassian arrives just before sunset. Two knocks before the door opens. Like always. He's wearing dark jeans and a charcoal henley with the sleeves pushed up. The man makes running errands look criminally attractive.

His eyes meet mine. Immediately soften. Every single time.

"Hey." The low warmth in his voice settles somewhere beneath my ribs.

"Hey."

He steps inside, and try not to stare.

Fail. Completely.

His mouth twitches. The jerk.

"Long day?"

"The council spent thirty minutes debating banner colors."