"Of course I like it," I assure him, letting him lead the dogs away. While he fastens their leashes, because of course he's thought of that too, I take a moment to look around. My birthdays have always been casual affairs, and I've always liked it that way. This though-- this is something else. My cheeks heat up and I smile to myself, taking in the picnic and the streamers from the trees.

"It's romantic," I tell him a little breathlessly. "I never had any idea just how much I like romance."

I turn to him with a helpless smile, shrugging one shoulder as I reach out for his hand. "Maybe I just really like you."