Maeve doesn't even look at him, and Steve wonders if maybe he ruined this. Maybe she'll realize that he isn't worth the trouble. Or maybe it will be fine. He thinks the chances of that are higher if they both get a little space right now.

"Okay," he breathes out, pausing in front of her and then leaning down to press a kiss to her forehead, murmuring quietly. "I love you."

It feels important to remind her of that, because nothing that's happened tonight changes that in the slightest. After kissing the top of her head, he straightens up and heads for the front door, picking up his backpack with a sigh.