The smile you wear is convincing—almost. You’ve fooled everyone else, but Patrick just tilts his head, watching you with those sharp blue eyes, seeing straight through you. “You know…” He leans back, twirling a teacup in his hands. “You don’t have to pretend with me.” The words are casual, but the way he says them—soft, knowing—makes something in your chest tighten. You open your mouth, but no words come out. Patrick just nods, like he expected that. Like he’s been there before. Then, with a small smile, he pushes the tea toward you. “Here. Drink. If nothing else, at least let me take care of this moment.” And somehow, that’s exactly what you needed.