Evie’s eyes widen a bit as the words left my mouth. “Z…”

“Tell me you don’t feel it. Tell me it’s just me and I’ll leave now.”

“And if…if I do feel it? The pull? The need?”

I stared at her for a few moments without saying a word. Leaning in, I kissed her lips gently, barely pressing against them. As I leaned back, I smiled. “Take responsibility. Remember, you’re the adult in this. I will defer to my elders.”

Her surprise was quickly replaced by laughter. 

“As ...