"Six was a wonderful time in my life. I try to keep it alive at all costs, thank you very much," she said. "Have I ever told you that you look just like a black Clark Kent?"
Theo adjusted his glasses.
"Yes, every time you're trying to sweet-talk me into being your cheerleader. I've got your back during this meeting; no need to butter me up." He frowned at her. "Today, that is."
She grinned at him and snagged her doughnut, just as the mayor and his secretary walked into the room.
"Why, exactly, are we here this early, Theodore?" Mayor Emmitt boomed out, before investigating the pink doughnut box.
"You have a trip to San Diego scheduled for the climate change conference this afternoon, and so—"
"Yes, yes, I know, let's get on with it. Stella, what's this thing about delinquent teenagers?"
She locked eyes with Theo, took a long sip of her coffee, and flipped open her laptop.