I looked at her. "You say that, but you're still here."
"I'm a bad influence." She hopped off the counter, the towel slipping dangerously. "And also your accomplice at this point, so it's in my best interest to keep you out of trouble."
"Is that the only reason you're here?"
Mera stepped closer. Close enough that I could smell her shampoo—something fruity and sweet. Close enough that I could see water droplets clinging to her collarbone.
"No," she said softly. "That's not the only reason."
I set my plate down. Put my hands on her hips. "Then why?"
"Because you make me feel good. Not just the drain thing. You. The way you look at me. The way you talk to me. Like I matter."
"You do matter."
"See? That." She pressed a hand against my chest. "That right there. You say it like you mean it."
"I do mean it."
