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Rogue’slow chuckle fills my ears. “Nice shot. Your aim’s getting better.”

“Getting better? I’ve always been this good.” I stick my tongue out even though he can’t see me. “You’re just mad because I’m about to break your kill streak record.”

“In your dreams.”

The match timer counts down as we clear the map together, our characters moving in sync.Rogueand I met in a random lobby, but his skill caught my attention. Now, we’re an unstoppable team.

“So, how’s the convention prep going?” he asks between firefights.

“Just finished my Aloy costume, actually.” I grab a handful of chips from the bowl next to my keyboard. “The armor pieces were a pain to make, but worth it. Even got the bow looking perfect.”

“Horizon Zero Dawn? Nice choice.”

“Yeah, figured I’d do something different than my usual League costumes. Plus, she’s badass.” I wipe my fingers on my sweatpants. “You should come to GamerCon, you know. It would be cool to finally meet my gaming partner in person.”

“Not really my scene.” His voice takes on an edge I can’t quite read.

“Come on, it’ll be fun! There are tournaments, panels, merch...” I lean back in my chair. “Plus, you can see my cosplay in person instead of just the progress pics I keep sending.”

“Those pics have been... interesting.” My cheeks heat at the tone of his voice.

“Well, there are still tickets available if you change your mind. You already have the Ghost costume you sent me photos of.”

The sound of gunfire interrupts as another player rushes our position. I take them down with a clean headshot.

“I’ll think about it,”Roguesays after a moment. “When is it again?”

“In two weeks. Friday through Sunday at the convention center downtown.” I bounce in my seat. “Please say you’ll come? I need someone to watch my back while I navigate the vendor hall in full armor.”

His laugh sends a shiver down my spine. “Always looking out for you. Let me check my schedule.”

My phone buzzes on the desk,Jenna’ssmiling face lighting up the screen.

“Sorry, Rogue. I have to take this.” I switch to my phone. “Hey, Jen!”

“Girl, where are you? We were supposed to meet for coffee like twenty minutes ago!”

I glance at the time and curse. “Shit, sorry! Got caught up in a match withRogue.”

“Of course you did.”Jenna’seye roll is practically audible. “You better not be late for the costume fitting tomorrow. I’m not letting you walk around GamerCon with unfinished armor.”

“I’ll be there.” I start gathering my things. “Hey,Roguemight actually come this year!”

“Mhmm. Just like he was ‘thinking about it’ last year.”

“He seemed more interested this year.”

“Kira, sweetie, he’s been stringing you along about meeting up for how long now?”

“It’s not like that.” I pull on my shoes while balancing the phone. “We’re just gaming friends.”

“Right. Gaming friends who flirt constantly and send each other cosplay pics.”

“I gotta go,Rogue,” I speak into my headset. “Thanks for the matches!”

“Later,Mischief.” His voice still has that edge to it.

I disconnect and grab my bag. “He’s different from what you think, Jen. You should hear how he talks about game mechanics and strategy. The guy’s brilliant.”