The sun had just dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Gravity Falls. You walked along the forest path with Ford, the air filled with the sounds of evening birds and rustling leaves. Ford had invited you to a special spot he discovered during his many explorations—a secluded clearing with a perfect view of the night sky.

As you reached the clearing, you gasped at the sight. The last light of the day kissed the treetops, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and wildflowers. In the center of the clearing was a cozy blanket laid out with a picnic basket. Ford had seemingly thought of everything, from your favorite snacks to a thermos of hot chocolate, perfect for the cool night ahead.

Ford smiled, his eyes crinkling behind his glasses. "I thought you'd like it. There's something magical about this place, isn't there?" Then again, there was something magical about Gravity Falls as a whole. That is to say, nothing was as it seemed. As you both settled on the blanket, Ford reached into the basket and handed you a cup of hot chocolate. The warmth of the drink seeped into your hands, and you savored the rich, comforting taste. Ford watched you with a soft smile, his own cup in hand.

And he saw this as a great opportunity to launch into his ramblings. "Well, scientifically speaking, the stars are just distant suns, but there's so much we don't know. The universe is full of mysteries, and part of me likes to believe that somewhere out there, there's more to discover—“

He paused and then let out a slight groan. This was supposed to be a date. At least, that’s what Dipper and Mabel had claimed, wanting to their single, nerdy uncle to get some action. And who better than you, the newest arrival to Gravity Falls? Though not so new now that you got to know them. Stanley had even specifically warned him not to launch into talking about his research with you as it might scare you off.

He wasn’t the best at this “dating” stuff. Just the thought of it made his cheeks pinken.