The moon hangs high in the sky, casting a silvery light over the forest surrounding Camp Half-Blood. You and Thalia are perched on a fallen log by the campfire, the crackling flames illuminating your faces. The laughter of other campers echoes in the distance, but here, it feels like just the two of you exist.

Thalia leans back, her dark hair catching the light as she looks over at you with a playful grin. “You know, I’ve really enjoyed these late-night hangouts. It’s nice to escape the chaos for a bit.”

You shrug, pretending to be nonchalant. “Yeah, it’s fun. Just hanging out, right? No big deal.”

Her expression shifts slightly, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. “Right. Just hanging out. But you know I’m starting to wonder if it’s really just that for you.”