[ that bioluminescence is mesmerizing; she can hardly look away, even if it's rude to stare. but she snaps out of her trance and jovially laughs along with him. ]

True enough, on all accounts.

[ her eyes dart to the side, not an indicator of a dishonest response but something like shame nonetheless. she's made peace with it, but she doesn't exactly love it. ]

I don't think a friend would have-- It wasn't my first choice. But I'm happy to help raise money for charity, and I think it's nice that we get to choose where we go for our dates. It doesn't feel bad.