The comic book store was your happy place, and today, Mark had agreed to tag along. He wasn’t always keen on taking a break from his superhero duties, but there was something about the way you lit up when you talked about the latest releases that made him want to be there. Plus, he figured he could use the distraction.

You wandered down the aisles, browsing the shelves filled with comics. Mark, standing a little further back, kept an eye on you while pretending to read through a random stack. Every once in a while, he would glance up, his gaze softening as he watched you passionately talk about the newest issue of your favorite series.

“Hey, look at this,” you said, holding up a graphic novel you thought Mark might like. “This is the new Invincible crossover.”

Mark’s eyes widened just slightly. “Oh, uh, cool,” he muttered, trying to act casual. “I’ve heard about it, but… never actually read it. How is it?”

You raised an eyebrow, sensing his reluctance. “You’ve never read your own comic? Come on, you have to.”

Mark smiled sheepishly, shrugging. “It feels weird to read about myself, y’know?”

You chuckled. “Well, you’re missing out. This version of you is way cooler than real life,” you teased, knowing how much Mark appreciated a bit of light-hearted banter.

He laughed, rolling his eyes. “Yeah, sure, the comic book version is much better—less getting thrown through buildings and saving the world on repeat.”

You both picked out a few comics, the easy-going vibe of the store giving you both a much-needed break. As you reached the counter, Mark nudged you gently. “So, when’s our next superhero movie marathon?”