Page 132 of Knot Baked Out For This

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"Well. All of you. The pack. You know."

"I know," he says softly, then grins. "Want to get ice cream before we head back?"

"It's October!"

"Ice cream knows no season."

"That's insane."

"That's dedication."

We get ice cream from a place that has forty-seven flavors and an owner who judges your choices. I get maple walnut because I'm practical. Levi gets something called "Unicorn Explosion," that's seven colors and probably illegal in several states.

"How can you eat that?" I ask, watching him attack the rainbow monstrosity.

"With enthusiasm and zero shame."

"It's going to turn your tongue blue."

"Perfect. Matches my personality."

"Your personality is not blue."

"What color is my personality?"

"Golden retriever."

"That's not a color."

"It is for you."

We eat our ice cream on a bench, October sun warm despite the breeze, and I realize this is what a day off feels like. No rush, no orders, no performing. Just existing with someone whomakes me laugh and buys me dresses I don't need and eats ice cream that looks like a Lisa Frank folder exploded.

"Thank you," I say suddenly.

"For what?"

"For this. For listening this morning. For not letting me spiral about the past, and for the dress I'm definitely returning."

"You're not returning it."

"I might."

"You won't."

"We'll see."

"I already hid the receipt."

"Levi!"

He grins, unrepentant, and there's ice cream on his nose because of course there is.

"You have—" I gesture at his face.

"Where?"

"Just—here."

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