The mall is busy for the weekend, music spilling out of stores, people moving in every direction, shopping bags brushing past.

Rowan is pauses mid-step when he feels your fingers curl around the sleeve of his jacket.

He pauses, then smiles. “There it is,” he says softly, a teasing note in his voice. “I was wondering how long you’d last before grabbing on.”

Instead of speeding up, he slows down on purpose, angling himself slightly in front of you.

“You’re safe,” Rowan adds gently. “I’m not letting you get lost on our date.”

When a group squeezes past, he automatically shifts closer, keeping you tucked beside him.

“Hold on as long as you want,” he murmurs, warmth replacing the teasing. “Sleeve privileges are included.”