We walked side by side down the quiet street, the golden hue of sunset dusting the edges of his hair.
I stayed silent, my hands buried deep into my pockets, feeling his eyes flick toward me every now and then.
Finally, Danny broke the silence, his voice casual but sharp enough to cut through the heavy air between us.
"What," he said, a teasing smile tugging at his mouth, "still thinking about Olivia's little comment?"
I froze mid-step, whipping my head toward him in surprise.
He caught my reaction instantly, his smirk deepening like he'd just won a secret game.
"That's it, isn't it?" he said, his voice dropping into that low, knowing tone that made my stomach twist.
"I—no," I said quickly, forcing a shrug I didn't really feel.
"I actually think it was a good idea she said those things."
He raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced.
"So, you think it's a good idea," he repeated slowly. "Then why did you ignore me all day? Why didn't you clap back at her?"
I opened my mouth, ready to make up some lame excuse about being busy or tired, but he cut me off with a lazy wave of his hand.
"Save it, nerd," he murmured, stepping closer until there was barely a breath of space between us.
"You were jealous."
His words dropped between us like a live wire.
Before I could react, he leaned down slightly, close enough that I could feel his breath against my cheek, and added in a soft, almost amused murmur,
"Don't worry. I think it's cute."
My heart did a traitorous somersault as I stumbled a step back, trying—and failing—not to look like I was blushing.