The change in his voice was noticeable, and she frowned in concern as he seemed to struggle with finding the right words. But when he did... She couldn't stop the smile that curled up the corners of her lips, because it was the sweetest invitation she'd ever received, and there was no way in hell that she could say no that. He couldn't have many other people to ask, not when he was still so new to this time, and she couldn't let him spend the day alone.

"I'd love to spend your birthday with you, Steve," she assured him. "I'm sure you'll be perfect company, and if not, the fireworks will undoubtedly make up for it." There was more than a bit of teasing in that last part, and she decided against admitting that she'd be hoping a little for a different kind of fireworks between them. Eventually. Maybe.

She cleared her throat a little before grabbing the refilled punch bowl and nodding toward the open door to indicate he should follow her as she headed out to return the bowl to its rightful place on the table. "Now, for a very serious birthday question," she began, giving him a pointed look. "What's your favorite kind of cake, sugar?" Because what was a birthday celebration without cake?