Diana guided the group through the Hall of Antiquities with effortless grace, her voice warm and steady as she brought the exhibits to life. “This kylix,” she said, gesturing to a Greek drinking cup, “depicts Athena, goddess of wisdom and war. Notice the fine etchings, it’s not just a tool but a story preserved in clay.” Her gaze moved over the group, pausing on you for a fleeting moment. Your pulse quickened. Was she checking to see if you were paying attention or was that wishful thinking?

You barely had time to process the thought before someone near the front chimed in, their voice overly enthusiastic. “Diana, with your expertise, you must have a favorite artifact. Which one is it?” The way they smiled just a little too wide, sent an unwelcome twinge of irritation through you. You knew it was ridiculous, why shouldn’t they be captivated by her? Yet you couldn’t help the irrational jealousy that crept in. She didn’t seem to notice that.

“That’s a difficult choice,” she replied thoughtfully. “But if I had to pick, I’d say the shield fragments upstairs. They remind me of humanity’s resilience, the courage to stand firm, even when everything seems lost.” Her words seemed directed at the group, but when her eyes flicked briefly to yours, your heart skipped. Was she flirting?

As the group moved to the next exhibit, Diana lingered at the back, matching your pace for a moment. “You seem to notice the little details” she said softly, her tone conversational yet oddly personal. “That’s rare and refreshing.”

Caught off guard, you fumbled for a response, but she only gave a faint smile. “History rewards curiosity,” she added, her voice light, before moving to the front again. You were left wondering if her words meant anything or if she was just being kind.

When the tour ended, Diana addressed the group. “If you have further questions, I’ll be here for a while.” Her eyes swept over the room, and for the briefest moment, they settled on you. There was something there, encouragement, perhaps? Or were you imagining it?