The first thing that Derek noticed as Stiles scrambled into the passenger seat of the jeep was how unusually full of energy he was. Stiles was usually energetic anyway, but it was unexpected after such a long day and a therapy session. Still, Derek wasn't complaining, because as irritated as he could pretend to get at the boy, a happy Stiles left a warm tingle in his heart, the same place where a sad Stiles seemed to create a bottomless ache. Stiles practically bounced in his seat as Derek turned the keys in the ignition. Unable to resist the childish urge, the werewolf reached out and ruffled that teen's hair. Stiles pulled back and stuck his tongue out at Derek, coaxing a rumbling laugh his chest, dissolving his usually-sullen expression into a smile. Stiles beamed back, enjoying the simplicity of the good mood between the two of them. He bounced a bit again before stating as a question, "Taco Bell?" At this point he could practically hear Derek's eyes roll, but sure enough, Derek swung a hard right as they passed the fast food joint.
Stiles met Derek's eyes over a bite of his Crunchwrap. Derek laughed and pointed, causing Stiles to frantically swipe at his mouth until he wiped away the nacho cheese that had been smudged on his chin. Then Derek stopped laughing and their eyes locked and it was too much, making Stiles blurt out, "We need to talk," then taking in Derek's crestfallen look, before adding, "No, not like that. I just have something I need to tell you. Not here though." He was met with a swift nod, but the breadth by which Derek broke the speed limit driving home told a different story than the calm composure plastered on his face.