Offering

Warmth and worry suddenly returned to his eyes as he said, "Sounds like you've been through a lot."

May's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she nodded. "Yeah, it's been tough. I didn't want to burden you with all of this. That's why I said no back then."

Nathan then said, "So what now? Why did you finally agree to go out on a date when we've barely seen each other in the past year?"

May paused, letting out a sigh. "I guess you could say it's because I got cocky."

Nathan raised an eyebrow, curious. "Care to explain?"

She took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly. "I'm sure you heard about that summoner who was all over the internet. You know, the one who summoned that dragon... or was it a drake? I think his name was Alister."

The air around Nathan suddenly changed. Although there was barely any change to his facial expression, it made May feel uneasy. He tightened his grip on her hand as he said, "Alister?" His tone was sharp and dangerous.