The group fell into a sudden, awkward silence. Even the night air seemed to pause.
Phoebe blinked. Megan raised a brow. Keith looked mildly alarmed.
Craig never offered rides. Ever.
Merlina stared, caught off guard by the sudden vulnerability behind his steady eyes.
Her heart jumped again, like the first time she saw him in the theater, only heavier this time.
"Oh," she said, trying to sound casual. "Okay. Yeah. That… works."
Craig nodded once, slipping his hands into his pockets.
Phoebe equally raised an eyebrow, then smirked. "Well, now I'm starving. Barsea awaits!"
As the group began to disperse, Merlina fell into step beside Craig, her pulse fluttering.
She didn't know what the car ride would bring. Or what she was ready to say.
Louis turned to Merlina. "I'll text you when I get home."
Before she could reply, he leaned in and kissed her. Quick, casual, and just a little too public.
