You were flipping through your guidebook when you felt him sidle up beside you, too close, like always.

“Still trying to memorize the ruins before we get there?” he drawled, peering over your shoulder. “Cute. But completely unnecessary.”

You rolled your eyes. “Some of us like to be prepared.”

“Mhm,” he hummed, leaning in until his lips were nearly at your ear. “Is that what this is? Preparation? I thought maybe you just liked the idea of me correcting you in front of the group.”

You shot him a look. “You’re insufferable.”

He grinned wider, eyes twinkling. “And yet… here you are. Still standing next to me. Still listening to every word I say. Almost like you enjoy it.”

You tried to step away, but he matched you, stride for stride.

“Tell me to stop,” he said, voice low now. “Tell me to go bother someone else. Just say the word.”

You opened your mouth—hesitated.

That grin? It turned absolutely wicked. “Exactly what I thought.”

He turned on his heel, sauntering ahead with a smugness that radiated off him like heat.

“C’mon, sweetheart,” he called over his shoulder. “Try to keep up.”