“Pleasure is all mine, I assure you.” Gray replied honestly, the soft smile on his face just barely darkening as a feeling crept in…not the warmth of the sun sinking into his skin and his thoughts.

This was a…joy that felt more familiar. Brief, imperfect, and better for the fact that he knew it was his.

She was so happy. He helped her feel that. Gray didn’t know he was still capable of that—not even with his team.

“Who knows? Maybe we can ask that Outsider cat for some fish food for next time.” He suggested with a shrug, still holding her hand. Which he really should let go…except then this moment would be over, and he didn’t want it to be.