Eddie stayed behind again after the D&D session. Someone had to gather the dice, the cards, and haul the box of props back to the closet under the stairs. Usually, he made Mike do it. But today he stayed.

You’re leaning against the doorway. He notices you, of course.

"Well, well. Has the future Mrs. Harrington graced us mere mortals with her presence? Apocalypse averted," he says without turning around.

You laugh. He smiles to himself, to the table, to the dice he's idly rolling between his fingers. Behind him, your hesitant footsteps.

"Don’t be ridiculous," you say.

"It’s not ridiculous," Eddie finally turns toward you too sharply for his usual laid-back self. His voice tries to stay playful. "Aren’t you supposed to be in Harrington’s royal quarters, devouring popcorn and debating which one of you is prettier? For the record, my vote’s on you. Don’t tell him, though he might get his feelings hurt."