It’s been a few weeks now—weeks of horror movies, diner stops, and a whole lot of not talking about whatever this thing between you and Van is. You’ve settled into a routine of circling each other, pushing and teasing but never quite saying what either of you mean.

Which is why you’re at her movie store now, ready to wander between shelves with no real intention of renting anything.

Van clocks you immediately, eyes flicking up from her magazine as the bell chimes. “Didn’t know we were doing visits today.”

You lean against the counter. “What, I need an appointment now?”

She snorts. “No, but you could at least pretend to be here for a movie.”

“Why would I do that when bugging you is more fun?”

Van rolls her eyes, setting down her magazine. “Alright, what’s it gonna be? Gonna ask for Titanic just to watch me suffer?”

You grin. “I was considering asking you to reenact Jurassic Park for me, but Titanic sounds good.”

Van groans. “Oh my god.”

You lean in. “I think it’s romantic.”

She levels you with a flat look. “You would.”

You shrug. “What can I say? I love a tragic love story.”

Van starts to argue but then hesitates, something flickering in her expression. Instead, she just sighs, shaking her head.

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” she mutters.

Your grin widens. “What was that?”

“Nothing.”

“Ohhh, so you do think I’m cute?”

Van glares, but her ears are turning red.

“Get out of my store,” she grumbles.

You don’t plan on it.