“That’s why you want to be around me?” I clarify, fighting to keep my voice even. “Because it helps you draw?” He walks toward me with an adamant shake of his head. “No, I want to be around you because you’re amazing. You’re sweet and smart and fun. I love talking to you. The way we can spend an entire night talking about everything and nothing, I’ve never had that sort of connection with anyone before. You don’t just shine, Calliope, you blind me with it.”
