"Oh, that's not flirting," he said, his voice low and smooth. Despite the suave nature of his tone, his expression was earnest and affectionate, and he reached up with his free hand to brush her hair back. "That's just being honest."
He laughed deeply, resting his forehead just under her neck as he pulled her close. "Trust me. I know what flirting is."
He laughed a little, looking up at her. "Uh.... your father must've been a rogue, because he stole the stars and placed them in your eyes..."
He looked down for a moment, a frown on his mouth. “When it counts, you are, I think,” he said quietly.
He looked up at her, his face softening as he considered her. “You’re so...” He fell silent, considering her. “You’re like the sun, Calliope. I’m serious, you just... you change everything.”
His face may have fell a little and he looked uncertain, his gaze flickering away. “I am... not good at being clear with my emotions,” he said hesitantly. “I’m sorry. It’s something I’m working on.”
"I'm glad I know now," she said gently, reaching up and running a hand through his hair. "I'm glad you like me."
