( Night Sky searched his expression, tilted her head like she was trying to really hear the words he said. She wasn't exactly an expert in reading people, but when she honed in, she liked to think she could discern insincerity, at the very least.

And he seemed sincere enough. Her gaze softened. She nodded. )

It's okay. I just — I never want to push, you know? Especially not someone I like.

( she could be both of those things, she nearly argued — insistent and caring — but did not see the point. ) I hope you include yourself in that, sweetness. You do a lot for people, and you deserve to be cared for like you care for them.