Nah, the challenge is part of the fun. [ He smiles at her, his response is equally light hearted but there's truth there too. He's never been one to turn away just because something is hard, and he appreciates a challenge when life presents it. When she returns the sentiment, that she feels lucky to have met him too, his smile widens, clearly very happy to hear it. ]
I'm just more interested in you. [ Is his sincere response to her mention of him not first asking about the vigilantes she knew. He'd been curious; but it was something that was pushed to the back of his mind the moment she'd mentioned being in an accident.
He takes one of her hands in his as she begins to speak, and there's a gentle but intent focus to the way he listens; both his eyes and in his touch convey that he's here and that whatever support she might want is something he's ready and more than willing to give. He nods when she mentions the way it had been a kind of rebellion - dealing to keep the lights on, something bad but something that was hers. He understands it because he hadn't been a perfect teenager either. He hadn't gone through the circumstances that she was describing, but he knows what it's like to want to rebel, and to want to use whatever you had to numb the pain. And losing her mother at such a young age, it makes his chest tight just thinking of how absolutely devastating it had to have been for her. And how unsupported she'd been.
His thumb moves across the edge of her hand, rubbing along her palm when she pauses. His expression shifts when she mentions the big fight she'd gotten into with her dad and brother; his brow furrowing. Everything goes from bad to so much worse, and even though he can sense where the story might end; it's still utterly gut wrenching to hear her say it. His face hides nothing of what he's feeling. There's no trace of judgement or blame there, only compassion and sadness for what she's been through. There's understanding there as well, he hasn't lost family members like this; but he does understand loss and grief all too well. ]
I'm so sorry. For everything you've been through. [ There's a weight of genuine emotion to his words, and his hand wraps around hers tighter as he says them. Her last words circle in his mind a couple times, and he's quiet for a moment, just trying to figure out the best way to convey what he wants to say. Because it's clear that she blames herself, for all of it. And he just... does not agree with that. ]
I have no doubt you're amazing at what you do. But you don't need to atone for anything. [ It's gentle, but firm; and he knows that even him saying this is unlikely to chip away at the self-blame, because he's also felt that too, and knows how deep it can go, how it can warp every thought you have of yourself. ] You were just a kid when you lost your mom. Then you had to... take care of everyone, while nobody was taking care of you. You, or your brother. If there's blame to be placed here, it's on your dad. He should've been there. I'm not saying there's a right way to go through grief... there's not. It's a mess, and it changes you in ways you... can't predict. [ He pauses a moment, again hoping he's not overstepping with his opinion. ] But, you know, he just... should have been there.
[It's a good thing he thinks the challenge is part of the fun, because challenge is embedded in the bedrock of her day to day life. The work she does and the company that she keeps means that her life can be dangerous and scary, but she wouldn't have it any other way. She suspects he knows more than a little bit about what that feels like himself. And then he goes on to say he's more interested in her, and she just smiles for a moment, leaning in to drop one more kiss on his mouth.] Come on, I can only be so charmed. [It's a playful admonishment. She doesn't doubt that he means it, which is...unaccountably sweet.
She appreciates the way that he listens too. Telling this story never gets easier. Part of her feels like she's stuck back in that wrecked car again every time she dredges it up. And she knows that it's because she's always - hesitant, to share this part of her life with others. Worrying that flaying open the ugly parts of her soul will make it so that everyone pushes her away. Part of her thinks she'd deserve it. The rest knows that self-flagellation won't do anyone any good.
So there's maybe a little apprehension mingling in there with the sadness. With the undeniable honesty, quiet and raw and bleeding into each syllable. It doesn't feel like she deserves his compassion or understanding, but she knows that's just the hurt part of her. She can take a breath and appreciate the fact that he's still just - steadily and uncompromisingly himself. She gives his hand a squeeze, trying to silently convey her gratitude for that point of connection.
His reaction, kind and solid as it is, does allow some of the tension that's crept into her shoulders to drain out again. She watches him in silence for a moment, trying to figure out how she wants to reply.] Thank you. It's...two things can be true. My dad wasn't there. He's still not there. He...failed us, in a lot of ways. But I'm still the reason Kevin is dead. Nothing can change that. But I can work hard and just try to be a little bit better every day, you know? [Her free hand, resting on his shoulder, smooths at the fabric of his shirt as she takes a moment to gather her thoughts.] Thank you. For listening. And for being - very you while you listened. [She's smiling a little as she says it.] I, uh, don't tell a lot of people about that part of my life. [It's true, but she's not sure why she tacks it on there. Maybe just to share in that moment of emotional vulnerability. To let him know that she understands what it means that he'd shared his worries about his scars with her.]
[ Her playful admonishment is met with a very content sound as she kisses him; he smiles into it as well.
His gaze takes in her expression, watching for every small shift; and when he thinks he notices her shoulders drop down a bit, he takes that as a positive sign. He hasn't let go of her hand, and lets his other hand smooth across her forearm as he listens to her response. It breaks his heart a little, knowing she's had to go through this. It felt incredibly cruel that things like this happened, period. But he knows it's unfortunately a part of life; having seen terrible things happen to people he cares about and watching how they dealt with the fallout was never easy. He'd like to say after over a decade in the service that he's gotten better at it, but it still hits him just as hard. All he could really do was be a source of solidity and support, offer help in the ways he could.
He just nods with a small grin when she thanks him for listening, that grin widening a little at the 'being very you' part. ]
I'm glad you told me. [ His tone is warm as he reaches up to touch her face, just a brush of fingertips for a moment as his gaze holds hers steadily. He feels honored that she did, that she trusted him with this. It's not easy, putting the most fragile and delicate parts of yourself in someone else's hands; not knowing exactly what was going to happen. That kind of vulnerability was difficult. Good thing then that they were both the type that didn't back down from things that were challenging. ]
I've, uh... I've lost friends, during missions. People I've counted as family. [ He glances down a moment, then his eyes lift back to hers. ] And it... that kind of pain never really leaves you. Not that I'd want it to, because if it did it'd feel too much like... [ He breathes out, shaking his head a little. ] I don't know, that I was forgetting them. So this is just... me saying that I understand how grief changes things. It changes everything. And I get what you're saying - that two things can be true. I just... I'm in your corner, is what I'm getting at.
[ There's a small smile on his face as he looks at her, squeezing her hand again as he leans forward to press his lips against hers; taking a moment to emphasize his words with the gesture. ]
You still comfortable like this? We can move if you want. I mean, I'm still gonna velcro myself to you, just as a fair warning. [ He teases lightly, fairly certain she's noticed by now he's a pretty touch based kind of person. Not that he doesn't give people their space if and when it's needed, of course. This is just his way of checking in. ]
[It is an unfortunate part of life. She can remember telling Frank that sometimes it feels like life is just fighting not to be alone. There's still days that she feels like that. There will always be days like that. But she relishes the moments like these, too. An unexpected connection with someone that she's very much looking forward to getting to know better.
Her head tips a bit, leaning in to that graze of fingertips against her cheek, and she gives his hand another squeeze.] Me too. [She'd hardly been planning to - spill out all the messiest parts of her life for him. But there's something almost like relief in it. In knowing that he's seen the darkest corners of her life and he's still here. Still looking forward to learning more.
She listens, her eyes searching his, when he talks about the people that he's lost. When he takes a breath, she interjects with a quiet but sincere,] I'm sorry that you know what that feels like. [It's part of life. An inevitable part of life, even. But she can tell that there's loss that weighs on him just as heavily as the loss that she feels. So she leans in, meeting him for that kiss. Her head turns after so she can press another on his cheek, letting her lips linger there for just a moment. Like she's trying to pour her gratitude that they were able to share this moment into a simple gesture.
When he questions if she's comfortable, she leans back so she can smile at him. The idea of him velcroing himself to her startles a laugh out her.] You're really sweet velcro. [She's comfortable. Moreover, she's in no rush to get him out of her apartment. So instead, she lets out a thoughtful hum, considering him for a moment.] What would you have done today if you didn't come over here? You can't defer that one to me, the answer is 'case research.'
[ There's a look of gratitude and acknowledgement in his eyes when she says she's sorry that he knows what it feels like. He's sorry they both knew grief too well, but there's a part of him (perpetual and occasionally obnoxious optimist that he is) that looks at the pain and tries to make something useful out of it, since there was no turning back time and trying to prevent the losses that had happened. He tries to look at the grief as something that reminds him, on a daily basis, how important the connections in his life are; and to never take anything for granted that he's been given.
The sound of her laugh is a wonderful thing, and it draws a chuckle from him. ] You say that now, but just wait until you try to get up and do something and I'm still just---[ He then attempts to demonstrate the velcro effect by leaning forward, wrapping his arms around her and clutching tight like he's about to fall off a tall building or something. He leans into being ridiculous when he's at his most comfortable, so really, it's her fault he's like this.
As he pulls back, his hands rest atop her thighs and her question pulls a thoughtful look from him. ] Hmm, what would I have done without this incredibly gorgeous woman offering to make me pancakes as motivation to get my ass out of bed after drinking way too much tequila... [ He does actually have to think about it for a second. It's a weekend off for him, and those were never very predictable. It usually depended on the type of week he'd had, when it came to what he wanted to do with his rare bits of time off. ]
I'd have stayed in bed, kept the blinds closed and tried to sleep it off. Probably wake up at eight in the evening and be full of energy. [ A slight chuckle. ] Then I'd go for a run and sweat out the rest of the hangover, shower, eat something greasy and go back to bed. I'm going to be a great role model, can you tell? [ Teasing, because he thinks he's got at least a couple years before he has to worry about that sort of thing; right now his name isn't well known and he's going to enjoy his relative anonymity for as long as he can. ]
No two weekends off are exactly the same for me. Sometimes I make so many plans I barely see the apartment other than to sleep. Other times I just wanna crash on the couch and watch movies.
[There is something in that, in the idea that grief is just love that's just continuing in a different form. Nothing will ever replace the people that are gone. But at least the love for them is still there. Existing in a hundred different ways, like when she listens to the music her mother loved. Or when she sees someone smirk the way that Kevin used to when he knew he was about to win an argument. Like - echoes of their lives that can still be heard as long as people remember them.
Karen finds she's having a hard time not smiling as he answers her comment about him being velcro. And she can't help the laugh that bubbles up out of her when he wraps himself around her, trapping one of her arms between them. The other hooks around so she can run her fingers back through his hair, a look of fond amusement on her face as he lets go.] Don't threaten me with a good time, Torres.
[Her hands shift to rest on his shoulders, and she can feel the warm press of his hands on her thighs as he mulls over her question. The corner of her mouth quirks a little at that quick flirtation that comes with his answer, her hands sliding back so she can wind her arms loosely around his neck.
There's a considering look on her face as she listens to him outline what his weekends off look like, but it might not surprise him to find out that she's caught on that joke about him being a role model. She's still smiling a little when he winds up his answer.] First, I know you were joking about the role model thing. But uh, just in case there was a little bit of - worry in there. I think you're going to make a great role model. I can tell from the news coverage I've seen that you work means a lot to you. And I can tell just from talking to you that you care about the world and the people in it. You're going to do a great job.
[It's worth saying. He's so sincere and generous that she finds herself wanting to make sure that he gets to experience that same kind of support in return.] But for today, if you want to crash out and watch some movies, we can. I should warn you that I don't have a TV so I use my tablet screen when I watch things. [She sounds amused as she admits it, one shoulder lifting in a shrug.]
[ He's glad his demonstration of the Torres velcro effect has been so apparently well received, and her look of fond amusement is something that causes him to have the immediate thought that he wishes it was possible to take a picture of that, of her in this particular moment. There's just something about it that's so bolstering that he wants to etch it into his memory. And if it'd been a picture he'd have wanted to carry it with him, especially during weeks long missions where he ended up having a lot more losses than wins. But he thinks he can content himself with drawing up his particular memory, knowing it would inevitably lead to reminding him of other fond moments during this morning and this day in general.
And while he'd been teasing about the role model comment, there was also a bit of truth there too. Because of course it would matter to him - being seen as a positive influence, especially when it came to people younger than him. It was another part of the responsibility of his job, and he wanted to make sure he handled that with care and consideration. He's touched by her words, and by the fact that she'd made a point to stop and provide him with that reassurance of her belief - that he'd do a good job at this. ] Thank you. [ There's a warmth of sincerity in his tone and his gaze as he looks at her. ] I appreciate hearing that. It's something I worry about sometimes, but... yeah, I do really, genuinely care about the people in this world. I just wanna do right by them.
[ A warm laugh rises from his chest when she mentions watching movies on a tablet screen. ] Funny you should say that, because the last ....three, I think, movies that I've watched have all been from my tablet. And I've got a big TV so I don't have any excuse for my behavior. [ He dips his head a little in mock shame. ] I mean, other than it's just more comfortable being able to watch something without leaving my bed. [ He chuckles a bit at himself because he's realizing he's successfully painted a very not superhero image of himself to her, starting last night with his texts and all throughout this morning with the serenading, and etc. He's reminded of that meme of 'you could have been cool and mysterious, but instead...' Not that he minds, he'd much rather share this side of himself with her than try to be cool. And he very much likes the idea of staying in with her today and relaxing together. ]
That does sound incredibly appealing though. Another good idea of yours. [ She's proven to have so many of those. He gives her thighs a squeeze as he leans in to press a kiss to her lips, lingering there a moment as he takes the opportunity to shameless flirt with her. ] So long as we can pause every so often if I get distracted by you.
[Karen likes it when people are true to themselves. Comfortable in their skin. It's something that she strives for, but she spent so many years feeling like she was just haunting her own life. She knows that there are always things that people feel insecure about, or worry about. But there's an ease to the way he carries himself that's really appealing. The way he leans in to the opportunity to do something a little silly just for the sake of doing it. It's certainly not going to be the only time he finds her looking at him fondly.
Case in point, some of that fondness is still lingering in the way that she smiles at him when he talks about why being a good role model is important to him. There's a genuine warmth in the way he speaks about it that's impossible to fake. She shifts one of the arms she has curled around him, just so her fingers can lightly trail through the hair at the nape of his neck.] You're going to do great. [There's a certainty to the way that she says it. And she'll elaborate on it if he asks how she can be so sure.
That warm laugh of his is more charming than it has any right to be, and she just grins when he talks about how there's no excuse for his tablet watching behavior. Maybe the image he's painting isn't superhero like, but it is real. And she likes real. A lot more than she likes cool or mysterious. Getting to know the truest version of a person is a privilege, and she's absolutely looking forward to learning more about him.
She can't pretend that she doesn't feel a little jolt when his hands squeeze her thighs, and she returns the kiss, tipping her head to capture his mouth again for another few moments before he leans back to flirt in a way that brings that hint of pink back to her cheeks.] Wow, you're an outrageous flirt. [There's teasing humor in it, as if she'd just noticed. She unwinds her arms so she can run her hands down along his shoulders and arms, taking his hands in hers.] I think we can come to an arrangement. [She gets off of his lap, giving his hands a gentle tug so he'll stand and join her.] Come on. Tablet's in my room. [She's going to have to turn the record player off on the way. And she recognizes that watching a movie in bed is probably going to be akin to playing with fire. Which she doesn't mind. Getting comfortably sprawled out in bed to enjoy his company is just as appealing.]
[ The way she looks at him and her particular tone of voice when she says those words - that he's going to do great; it sinks in, past the layer of occasionally nagging self doubt that crops up despite his best efforts. And he sort of tucks it into the back of his mind, to ask her about a bit later. For now though, he just smiles warmly as a way of thanking her. She strikes him as such a naturally supportive person, and given he endeavors to be that kind of person to others as well; he can't help but think the combination of this trait in both of them is a very good sign of things to come. ]
I have no idea what you're talking about. [ At her outrageous (accurate) accusation of him being an outrageous flirt, he manages to feign a look of innocence; but it's somewhat ruined by the way his eyes fall to her lips again and the way his palms slide along her thighs for a moment while she's running her hands down his shoulders and arms. Like he just can't help himself. And it's true, he'll flirt with her any chance he gets.
He stands when she gives his hands a tug, he doesn't need any convincing when it comes to joining her in her room. The idea of stretching out and watching something together is so very appealing in a variety of ways. He's very much a guy that likes to cuddle, so even if that's all that happened, it's a far better way to watch a movie than sitting on a couch. But also, yeah, who is he kidding here, it's definitely playing with fire. He wonders at what point he'll ask her to pause the movie, if he'll get at least fifteen minutes in before becoming distracted. ]
So is this arrangement a.. 'from the desk of Karen Page' type official document? Because I'll sign it without even reading the fine print, my better judgement is thoroughly compromised.
[ His tone is easy and teasing as he gathers up their glasses of water and waits for her to turn the record player off; then follows her toward her room. ]
Oh, I'm sure. You're the picture of innocence here. [She's chuckling as she answers, enjoying that guileless look on his face. Almost as much as she likes the way it fades when his eyes and his hands wander. He's incredibly distracting in a way that she finds undeniably appealing.
She smiles when he lets her pull him to his feet easily, glad to find that they're on the same page. She takes a moment to get the record off the player and puts it back in the sleeve, tucking it back in on the shelf.
When she turns back to him, she listens to his question, her brows arching. One hand runs over her mouth to hide a smile.] I promise I'll try not to take advantage of your compromised judgment. But you should always read the fine print. Especially in officially documents I give you. [There's a mischievous glimmer in her eyes as she takes her glass of water from his hand.] I work with really good lawyers.
[Her head tips a bit to indicate the way down the hall, and she leads him into her room. The overhead light is off, but the window shade is half open. The room is dimly lit by the diffused gray light coming in from the overcast day. The room itself is small the way the rest of the apartment is, but she's made good use of the space. It's a little less neat in here than it had been out in the living room and kitchen. There's some jewelry and a taser on top of the dresser, a cardigan tossed over the bed's foot board, and a pair of heels on the floor over by the window. The closet door is closed, with a lanyard dangling from the doorknob.
There's a plush throw rug underneath the queen sized bed, which is only partially made. She's clearly picked the bed dressing for comfort - there's a soft looking duvet and silky sheets, and a few more pillows than are strictly necessary. There is also a notable lack of side tables and she lets out a laugh, setting her glass down on the top of the dresser.] Uh, sorry. You can put your glass on the floor in case you want a drink, I guess?
[Bending down, she gets her tablet out of the bag by the dresser and then gets into bed. With a smile, she pats the mattress next to her.] Come on, get comfortable. [She figures the verbal invitation is worth it, as a reminder that she's welcomed him in here. She leans back against the pillows as she turns the tablet on.]
Got it, read all fine print. [ He remarks with a nod, the same spark of mischief in her eyes is mirrored in his.
The soft, grey light that filters in from the window in her room casts the space in a cozy sort of feeling; especially with the very inviting looking bedding and pillows. He takes note of the unmade status of the bed with a small grin, thinking that his own bed probably looks like a tangled mess of sheets and duvet currently (still getting used to the bed meant moving around a lot while he slept) - as he'd forgotten to make it before heading out the door. His eyes scan the small details, eventually landing on the taser atop her dresser next to the jewelry. ] Good choice. [ He recognizes the particular model, and just like the extra locks on her door he can appreciate the fact that she's clearly no stranger to making her own space as safe as possible.
He sets his glass down on the floor with a chuckle; far enough away that neither of them will accidentally trip over it. He grins at her invitation, and settles in beside her, taking a moment to appreciate the cushy-ness of the duvet, the silky sheets, and the pillows propped up behind them. ] Oh damn, you went all out. This is really nice. [ He shifts so he can wrap an arm around her shoulders and pull her close as he settles back against the pillows. There's definitely a unique kind of intimacy in the fact that this is the first time he's seeing her room, and laying in her bed; but there is something so natural about the feeling of having her close like this - he's both incredibly comfortable and also feeling that same spark of anticipation that he'd felt earlier when their kiss had taken a more heated turn.
His free hand rests atop her forearm, thumb brushing against her skin while he turns his head to look over at her with an amused grin. ] I'm just thinking of the state of my bed right now in comparison, and realizing I may have to make a couple changes.
Hm? [Her head turns to follow his gaze when she hears him say 'good choice,' and she smiles when she realizes he's looking at the taser on top of her dresser.] Thank you. Sorry, I usually put that away when I get home. I got in late last night. [Well, she gets in late most nights. It wouldn't take much of a stretch of the imagination to call her a workaholic. Or paranoid, considering it's not the only weapon in her apartment. Hell, it's not even the only weapon in her room - it's just that her hand gun is tucked away in a drawer with the safety on, and the mace is clipped to the keys that she leaves by her front door. She can't even comfortably call it overkill, considering how often all three have come in handy. If she's going to be a magnet for trouble, she's at least going to be well armed when it inevitably arrives.
Karen is already making a mental note to buy a bedside table as he gets settled in on the other side of her bed. It feels like an oversight in hosting duties, now that he's letting his glass rest on the floor for retrieval. Part of her is tempted to go grab the ottoman out of the living room, but it's cushy enough that she's not entirely sure a glass will stand up on it.
Thankfully, his compliment on her choice of bedding is a distraction enough from that train of thought. She smiles over at him, leaning in against his side as she feels the warm weight of his arm settle around her shoulders.] I don't have a lot of indulgences, but having a comfortable bed is definitely one of them. [It's nice, to have somewhere to crash that she can just let all the tension of the day seep away.
The feel of his arm around her, with his fingers gently brushing her skin, is distracting now that they're both stretched out in her bed. It's a good kind of distraction. The kind of thing she wouldn't mind happening on a regular basis. She glances up at him with a quick grin when he makes a comment about his bed.] What kind of changes are we talking about?
[It's quiet for a moment as she considers the movie options. She turns in towards him, shifting so she can let her arm curl around his back.] Oh, hear me out - [it's clear an idea has suddenly popped into her head, and after typing in a few letters, she opens up The Princess Bride. A little mix of everything and a happy ending - which she's pretty sure is the perfect vibe for a hungover, rainy morning.] What do you think?
Oh no need to apologize, it's good to know you've got some decent backup. [ That's one way to describe a taser. A taser and mace were really underrated methods of incapacitating someone in his opinion, because it didn't matter how big and bad someone was, nobody took a face full of mace or a taser to the side with grace; both were brutal. And even both paired with a hand gun is still not what he'd consider overkill; not living in the city at least.
His fingers continue to idly trace along her arm while he's thinking out loud about how to upgrade his own sleeping set up. ] Well I definitely need a better duvet. This one's very comfy. And I don't know, I'm kinda partial to having this many pillows. [ He huffs a chuckle at the thought, considering he'd gone so long being accustomed to using a backpack as a pillow. Apparently all it took was experiencing Karen's particular brand of luxury (ie - more than two pillows) for a few moments to covert him. In reality, it's equal parts that her bedding is really nice and also that her bed happens to include her; the key element here. There's a softer, more earnest tone as he continues with the main reason behind the bedding upgrade - ] I guess I'm just thinking ahead you know, I want to make sure my own space is at least as comfy when the roles are reversed and it's me making you hangover pancakes.
[ Ending it on a slightly teasing note, but the sincerity of the statement remains. He likes the idea of thinking ahead a little, especially where it involves her. ] I do have good sheets though, [ he adds, ] they were the first thing I bought, when I was getting everything together for the apartment. Got the highest thread count known to man, and was not disappointed.
[ So at least in that department his bedding is pretty up to par. He glances toward the tablet screen, and when The Princess Bride pops up he does not bother hiding his enthusiasm. His eyes light up and a wide smile stretches immediately across his face ] Are you kidding me, that's a classic! I haven't seen it in... forever. Perfect choice, [ he punctuates the statement by pressing a kiss (or two) against her temple, the arm around her giving her a tight squeeze before he settles back against the pillows. ] When's the last time you watched it?
[Karen appreciates the casual way he refers to the taser as decent backup. Because that's exactly what it is. She has people in her life that would take a bullet for her. Hell, they'd probably insist on it if she gave them half a chance. But she won't. This is her life - it's messy and dangerous and scary but she knew that would be the case getting into it. And it's never going to stop her from pulling threads and turning evidence over. She'll paint a target on her back a thousand times over if it'll help make the city a better place for the people in it. Her life is dangerous, but she's cautious. And if she goes down, she's going to go down swinging.
Those concerns do mercifully feel about a million miles away, with the gentle patter of the rain on the window and the warmth of his body close against hers. If she wasn't already distracted, that remarkably sweet idea about planning ahead to have her over his place would certainly do the trick. That comment earns a smile, and she leans in to drop a kiss on his cheek.] You know, I'd be happy to come over even if I wasn't hungover. Especially now that I know you treated yourself to the good sheets. [It really does make a surprising amount of difference when it comes to getting a good night of sleep. After a beat, she tacks on,] I got the duvet in a bargain bin sale at a store that was going out of business. It might be the best sale find I've ever made.
[His obvious delight in her movie suggestion is charming enough that all she can do is chuckle a little. Her head tips, leaning in to the press of his lips against her temple.] Oh, three or four years, I think? We got to talking at the office about when we thought the 30th anniversary of the movie was and then it turned out we were off by a good five years. I ended up watching it anyway.
[And there's no good place to prop the tablet up. So after a moment of consideration, she shifts forward and accordion folds the duvet cover at the foot of the bed. It lets her lean the tablet against the foot board, and elevate it a bit above their feet. She's feeling pleased with her solution as she hits play. A smile lingers on her lips as she glances back over her shoulder at him so she won't misjudge where he is, and she leans back in against him, her head tipping in to rest on his shoulder.
She might be a workaholic, but she can still recognize that this is a much nicer way to be spending her morning.]
[ When it comes to the realities of leading a dangerous life, Joaquin is all too familiar with what that entails. And the more he gets to know Karen the less he thinks of her as a civilian; which is an interesting shift that doesn't often happen with people he meets. Granted, he would take a bullet for her without hesitation; but there's something about her that is inherently... capable, might be the right word. He gets the sense she'd fight like hell against any threat to her or someone she cared about. Not that people not in the service (or the superhero business) weren't capable, it's just that there was this line between a 'normal person' and someone who was familiar with risk, danger, or combat beyond just the occasional brush with a bad situation. The non-civilians, for lack of a better word, tended to have a different awareness of the world, something that came only from having experienced dangerous or difficult situations on a semi regular basis.
Needless to say, it was just easier overall for him to feel like he could be himself around someone that was at least a little familiar with what his line of work entailed; and that was definitely Karen. So it's no wonder, he thinks, that he's ended up feeling so comfortable around her. ]
I was gonna say, I can just make you pancakes without you needing to be hungover. [ He remarks with a soft chuckle. ] Or chilaquiles, if you feel like something more savory. [ The hangover pancakes she'd made him he's not sure he can replicate exactly (they were the perfect size and fluffiness okay), but he's a good cook, there's plenty of things he'd be happy to make. That and he does like the idea of waking up with her and making breakfast together - there was something about that brief image in his head that makes his hand squeeze her shoulder in response. Like a warmth that couldn't be contained without some kind of physical response on his part. ]
Wow, it's really been out that long? It's absolutely in my top five favorites. [ When she hits play and leans back against the pillows, he wraps his arm around her again; pressing a kiss to the top of her head as she settles it against his shoulder. There's a slow, content sigh that leaves his chest as the movie starts playing; the rain softly falling outside and the distant sounds of the city below fade into the backdrop and for this moment in time it's as if the rest of the world beyond her apartment fails to exist.
When they get to the part where Westley is fighting Inigo, an amused grin tugs at the corner of his lips. ] I've definitely dressed up as this guy for Halloween when I was younger. [ He gestures toward Westley on the screen.
As the movie continues to play out, he laughs at the familiar dry humor sprinkled here and there into certain scenes, and is proud of himself that he managed to make it at least over fifteen minutes before he notices the hand that's been tracing along her forearm and wrist has settled itself across her lap; and there's a sliver of bare skin between the hem of her shirt and the waistband her pants that he can feel beneath his palm. It's too tempting not to let his fingertips skim across that soft surface. ]
[Karen's world view has irrevocably shifted after everything went down with Union Allied and Fisk. She can't imagine going back to the way her life was before. Just sort of - drifting aimlessly from job to job, letting the world slip away around her. Letting herself get lost in the tidal ebb and flow of city life. This, what she does now, is undeniably a lot more dangerous. But it's so much more fulfilling. She likes the feeling of doing the hard work, of making a positive change in the world. It's risky. But she can't imagine protecting herself from that risk when she knows she's uniquely positioned to do something about it.
It helps too, knowing that he's been in the field. That he understands the risks inherent in a life that involves fighting back against injustice. She's met people that seem to understand it conceptually, but there's a difference between conceptual understanding and first hand knowledge.
The way he chuckles about her not needing to be hungover to go over makes her smile. Though she's quick to tip her head so she can look at him, her excitement evident in her expression.] Listen, I will re-arrange my schedule if you want to make me chilaquiles. Literally name the time and I will be there. [There's no bad time for chilaquiles. But if pressed, she would admit that she finds the idea of waking up for breakfast with him equally appealing.
She's pleased when he expresses his approval for the choice of movie. Though she does tack on,] I'm not going to ask you for your top five favorite movies now, but I am going to ask you that eventually. [Just as a fair heads up. She's content to lean in against him, enjoying the quiet companionship of the moment. And then she laughs a little, smiling to herself at his Halloween confession.] I can see it. That would make a great costume for you now, too. [All the black, the face mask? Absolutely dashing.
The movie is comfortably familiar, and she's laughing quietly too at some of the jokes she half remembers. And then she feels the way his fingertips run lightly across the skin of her side in a way that sends an immediate shiver rippling through her skin. Her head lifts so she can look at him, the corner of her mouth twitching in a half smile.] That was definitely longer than fifteen minutes. [Which deserves recognition of some kind, so she leans in, pressing a few slow, idle kisses along his jaw line.]
[ He chuckles at her offer to re-arrange her entire schedule for the promise of chilaquiles, smiling over at her as he responds. ] At least now I know a sure fire way to get you to take a break from work. They're amazing too, I'm not even gonna try to be humble about it. [ Half the credit to his mom for the recipe of course, but he's still going to brag just a little. They were a good bargaining chip - has Karen been working for a week straight with little to no breaks? Chilaquiles. It's the perfect solution, and he won't hesitate to utilize this in the future. ]
Good, because I want to know your top fives too. [ This gives him time to actually think about what's currently on that list and if he needs to revise it for more recent movies - not that he actually gets enough time to keep up with what's come out in the past year or so, but sometimes he'd make exceptions if a movie really caught his eye.
He lets out a quiet laugh at her comment about wearing that costume now, and the idea of dressing up as Westley again (provided she obviously joined him as Buttercup) is pretty amusing. He files that away as an idea for later, Halloween wasn't anytime soon but who said they had to wait until then to be ridiculous.
With her so close to him, he registers that subtle shiver and can't help but grin a little when she looks up at him. ] Don't get too used to it. [ He murmurs teasingly, realizing he really should have set the bar lower - maybe ten minutes, something like that. His eyes slip shut with a pleased sound when her lips move along his jaw line, and his fingertips slip beneath the hem of her shirt to travel across her waist; the warmth of his palm brushing over the curve of her hip. ] Your skin is really soft. [ It's quiet, his voice sounding a bit more husky as he shifts to better continue to explore along her waist and hip. ]
You have to promise not to abuse that power. [Karen almost manages to caution him seriously, though the effect is somewhat ruined when she trails off into a laugh.] Especially if they're that brag-worthy. [It really is the perfect solution to pull her away from a case, especially once she's several days deep into her research. It's usually around day three that she really starts losing track of things like 'time' and 'eating regular meals.' It'll be hard to resist the promise of perfect homemade chilaquiles. Getting to see him at the same time feels like it will be a pretty significant bonus too.]
I was hoping you wouldn't hold me to answering that question too. Movies are a little easier than music, at least. [By a very, very small margin. She's going to have to do a mental review of her all time favorites as well. And will doubtlessly realize in the process that it's been years since she's set foot in a movie theater.
And he is far too distracting for her own good. The sound he makes when her lips press against his jaw only serves to encourage her further. She's already lost track of the movie, her attention instead diverted between the feeling of his hand on her hip, the warmth of the skin under her lips. She's making a slow trail back towards his ear, and when she hears the way his voice has gone husky again, her teeth catch his earlobe to give it a light, teasing tug. She rolls onto her side, leaning closer in against him. One hand rests on his stomach and runs slowly up to his chest as she murmurs against his ear,] you are a...really tempting distraction from this classic movie.
[ He'd started to lose track of the movie the moment his hand began to wander across that small sliver of bare skin, but now he is completely unaware of it - the only thing he's focused on is the path of her lips as they slowly make their way toward his ear. When she gives his lobe a slight tug with her teeth there's a noticeable rise of goosebumps across his skin, his pulse practically sky-rocketing in response. He swallows, letting out a slow exhale when she leans in and moves her hand along his stomach and chest.
It feels like the wiring of his body is just particularly sensitive for some reason, maybe it's the atmosphere - quiet, intimate, no distractions but the two of them. Or maybe it's just her. Her, and all the built up anticipation from before combining with this moment as well. ]
Good thing we've both seen it already. [ His response is in the same low tone, a quick flicker of a grin across his face as he shifts for a brief moment to reach toward the foot of the bed and turn the tablet off. Technically he could have paused it, but he knows himself well enough to know that he has no intention of shifting his focus back to a movie after the direction things have begun to take. He'd much rather keep touching her, and feeling her hands on him.
He settles back against the pillows, and pulls her close the way she had been - on her side and leaning into him as he reaches for her, drawing her closer so he can capture her lips in a slow, heated kiss. His hand wanders further beneath the hem of her shirt, skimming over her stomach and sliding upward, thumb brushing along the underside of her bra. And it's then that he breaks from the kiss to murmur, soft and eagerly against her lips - ] I want to feel more of your skin against mine. [ He kisses her once more, before pulling away just enough to tug his shirt up and off his chest, discarding it off the side of the bed as he pauses a moment; waiting to see if she'll be comfortable doing the same. Either way, he's more than warm enough to not be wearing it right now. Especially if it means feeling her hands against his skin without the barrier of fabric in the way. ]
You make a compelling counterpoint. [Karen admits when he points out they've both already seen the movie. He's really good at that. Or maybe it's just being compelling in general. Like she'd told him earlier, she's not someone that has a particular timeline for intimacy in her head. But she does usually have self discipline in spades. It's part of the determination that makes her so formidable as a PI. And yet there's just something about him that keeps pulling her in. It's not often that she feels like she clicks with someone so immediately, but there's an undeniably appealing spark of something there.
When he settles back after turning off the tablet, she doesn't need any encouragement to lean back into him. Her arm curls around him as she indulges in that kiss and the way it's making the warmth between them steadily climb again. Her fingertips trail down along the side of his neck and over his shoulder, and there's no hiding the shiver that skates through her skin again, chasing the path of his fingers up to the band of her bra in the front.
She can't help but chuckle a little at his words, smiling against his mouth as she presses another kiss there.] Unreasonably hot, [she murmurs in return, as a call back to what she'd said earlier. Her hand runs up along his side as she watches him peel his shirt off, feeling the warmth of his skin under her hand. She appreciates the confidence in his gesture, after that earlier hesitation about his scars. The way her eyes wander over him make it clear that he makes a very appealing picture.
And she can't resist moving back in, kissing her way down from his jaw and neck, her lips lingering with warm intention against his skin. She drops a final kiss on his shoulder before tugging her shirt off, and the smile is back as she tosses it off the side of the bed. She leans back up against him, feeling acutely aware of all the places his skin is pressed against hers. Her lips brush against his, her voice low and warmly teasing.] Looks like we both might be full of good ideas.
[ There's a satisfied grin and a breath of a chuckle when she calls him 'unreasonably hot', enjoying that more than he probably should. And while he may have felt a second's worth of wondering what her reaction to seeing his scars in full might be; that's chased away almost immediately when he sees the look on her face. Fortunately, he doesn't have anything to worry about there. There's no slightly pained expression (what he's used to seeing), she's just checking him out - and he does not mind in the slightest.
When her lips travel down along his jaw and neck, warm against his skin, it's a wonderful sort of tease of sensation just before she pulls back to tug her shirt off. Joaquin is pretty shameless by nature, and the way his eyes roam over her after she tosses the shirt to the side is nothing short of shamelessly appreciative.
His arms wrap around her with a hum of approval as the heat and softness of her skin presses against his. That brush of her lips has him chasing after her mouth, managing to utter - ] You are fucking gorgeous, [ just before capturing her lips in a kiss. One that takes very little time before it becomes more heated, his fingers resting beneath her chin while his other hand presses flat against the small of her back, fingers splayed. With a brush of his tongue against her lower lip, he deepens the kiss with a low, eager sound.
Kissing her like this is just more fuel to the fire; he feels every inch of where his skin is connected to hers, and he's greedy for even more. After a few, slow moments of just leaning into the passion building from that kiss, his fingers bump up against the band of her bra, very much wanting to unfasten and take it off, but first asking (just to be sure) - ] This okay? [ He pauses with his fingers at the hooks, his mouth still hovering close to hers, his breathing a little quicker now. ]
[There might come a time that she'll want to get a look at his scars in another light. With a different type of intimacy. Karen has more compassion than she knows what to do with on most days. She's familiar enough with the different shapes scars can take that the reveal might not cause her to look pained. But she is interested in making sure that he's able to take care of his skin. That they aren't uncomfortable, or tight in the way that burns can feel when they're still newish. For now, she's content to let her mouth and her hands trail over him without hesitation, lavishing that attention anywhere she can reach.
The way his gaze takes her in once her shirt is off is just unfairly distracting. She can feel that swoop in her stomach again, equal parts heat and attraction and affection. He calls her fucking gorgeous and she hums a soft, content sound into his mouth as she kisses him with languid intention, trying to wordlessly pour her interest and desire into him. Her fingers curl gently into his hair while her other hand trails slowly up and down his back. The press of her fingertips there on his skin is warm and meandering, though she lets her nails ghost along the same path every so often, feather light.
She can feel the press of his fingers near where her bra fastens shut, and she can't help but close what little gap remains between them. The side of her foot brushes against the side of his shin, and then she lets her leg drape over his, bringing their hips tantalizingly close together. His question is met with a shaky inhalation, and her eyes meet his as she lets out a breath of a laugh.] I'm going to if you don't. [Her voice is quiet, but there's a playful hint of a challenge in it as she unwinds her arms from around him so she can pull them through the straps of her bra.]
[ Everything she gives into the kiss he takes greedily from her, giving back his own expression of interest, raw desire, and affection as well. It's significantly more intense than their previous kisses, there's an undercurrent of longing that he doesn't bother trying to conceal; as if he can't get enough of her.
Her fingertips roaming his skin send little shivers of anticipation through him, particularly when her nails scrape barely there paths along the surface - pulling a breathy sort of groan from him when their lips part for the briefest of moments. When she drapes her leg over his, he's quick to wrap a hand around her thigh, squeezing tight as his hips instinctively press forward to meet with hers. With her body flush against him like this, his heartbeat thuds against his chest and he feels almost dizzy with how much he wants her. They're not just playing with fire at this point, it's a full on blaze that only increases with each touch.
Her response to his question draws a huff of a chuckle from him, and he needs no further encouragement than that; with a quick twist of his fingers he's got the fastening undone. Once it's off he pulls her tight against his chest, a low sound leaving his lips as he kisses her again; that skin against skin rush hits him all over, a faint tremble of pleasure passing through his body as his lips begin to travel down her jaw and to her neck.
When he finds the flutter of her pulse point, he breathes her name against her skin - reverent and eager. The hand gripping her thigh slides upward, a slow drag from thigh to hip, caressing the dip of her waist and up until his palm cups her breast; thumb brushing feather light across her nipple. ]
[Karen's going to find it really hard to peel herself away from him. It seems like an impossible feat, with the urgency behind that kiss. This has definitely gone far beyond playing with matches.
She likes the little shivers she can feel rippling after the path of her hands almost as much as she likes the confident way his hand trails from her thigh up to her breast. Her fingertips press more firmly against his back, and she can't help but arch her hips, rubbing herself up against him in a way that makes her breath catch in her throat. All of her nerve endings feel like they're alight and sensitive, like she's too conscious of everywhere she can feel his hands and body and mouth. Her pulse is hammering quickly, and there's a deeper pink flush settling in to her skin.
When he exhales her name, she makes a low hum of acknowledgement, and she lets her hand dip further down. The tips of her fingers trail lightly against his skin, just along the inside of his waistband, tracing a line across his back and around his hip. Almost like she's questioning if that's an okay step to take. Her other hand curls in his hair, fingertips rubbing against his scalp, as she lets out a shaky breath. All she can seem to focus on is him, which is a real feat for a woman that usually has about a hundred things running through her mind at once. Her voice is a low, appreciative murmur as she says,] God, you're amazing. [Not just for the extremely distracting and promising making out and what it seems to be leading toward, but just - for showing up exactly as himself. He's so genuinely and unabashedly himself in a way she can't help but appreciate.]
[ He doesn't think he's ever going to get tired of seeing the way that flush spreads across her skin, it just makes him want to kiss every inch of her; and the way she reacts by arching her hips against his has him groaning against her neck - a heady spark of arousal traveling along every nerve ending. He nips against her skin lightly, hips pressing against hers in encouragement as his thumb rolls across her nipple, more pressure this time, exploring what she likes best based on her responses.
The combination of her hand buried in his hair, while the other teases slowly along the waistband of his pants is driving him more than a little crazy; his breathing ragged as he drags his mouth from her neck down along her collarbone. His hips shift a little closer to her, eager to feel her touch and not shy about it either. Her skin feels noticeably warmer beneath his lips, that flush of color having brought heat along with it; and he murmurs a hum at her words, half a smile forming across his lips as he continues to kiss a path across her collarbones, dipping lower. ]
You're incredible. [ It's a half formed whisper, something beyond just desire in his tone then - like he's having a hard time believing any of this isn't just a really vivid, really amazing dream that he's about to wake up from. But the warmth and softness of her body against his, beneath his mouth and his touch is a constant reminder that it's not actually a dream. She's real, and he's just very lucky to have met her - like he'd said before. Everything about her was intriguing to him, like a bunch of puzzle pieces he couldn't wait to figure out how each fit together, and right now he's just lost to how amazing it feels to give a physical expression to that particular feeling. ]
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I'm just more interested in you. [ Is his sincere response to her mention of him not first asking about the vigilantes she knew. He'd been curious; but it was something that was pushed to the back of his mind the moment she'd mentioned being in an accident.
He takes one of her hands in his as she begins to speak, and there's a gentle but intent focus to the way he listens; both his eyes and in his touch convey that he's here and that whatever support she might want is something he's ready and more than willing to give. He nods when she mentions the way it had been a kind of rebellion - dealing to keep the lights on, something bad but something that was hers. He understands it because he hadn't been a perfect teenager either. He hadn't gone through the circumstances that she was describing, but he knows what it's like to want to rebel, and to want to use whatever you had to numb the pain. And losing her mother at such a young age, it makes his chest tight just thinking of how absolutely devastating it had to have been for her. And how unsupported she'd been.
His thumb moves across the edge of her hand, rubbing along her palm when she pauses. His expression shifts when she mentions the big fight she'd gotten into with her dad and brother; his brow furrowing. Everything goes from bad to so much worse, and even though he can sense where the story might end; it's still utterly gut wrenching to hear her say it. His face hides nothing of what he's feeling. There's no trace of judgement or blame there, only compassion and sadness for what she's been through. There's understanding there as well, he hasn't lost family members like this; but he does understand loss and grief all too well. ]
I'm so sorry. For everything you've been through. [ There's a weight of genuine emotion to his words, and his hand wraps around hers tighter as he says them. Her last words circle in his mind a couple times, and he's quiet for a moment, just trying to figure out the best way to convey what he wants to say. Because it's clear that she blames herself, for all of it. And he just... does not agree with that. ]
I have no doubt you're amazing at what you do. But you don't need to atone for anything. [ It's gentle, but firm; and he knows that even him saying this is unlikely to chip away at the self-blame, because he's also felt that too, and knows how deep it can go, how it can warp every thought you have of yourself. ] You were just a kid when you lost your mom. Then you had to... take care of everyone, while nobody was taking care of you. You, or your brother. If there's blame to be placed here, it's on your dad. He should've been there. I'm not saying there's a right way to go through grief... there's not. It's a mess, and it changes you in ways you... can't predict. [ He pauses a moment, again hoping he's not overstepping with his opinion. ] But, you know, he just... should have been there.
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She appreciates the way that he listens too. Telling this story never gets easier. Part of her feels like she's stuck back in that wrecked car again every time she dredges it up. And she knows that it's because she's always - hesitant, to share this part of her life with others. Worrying that flaying open the ugly parts of her soul will make it so that everyone pushes her away. Part of her thinks she'd deserve it. The rest knows that self-flagellation won't do anyone any good.
So there's maybe a little apprehension mingling in there with the sadness. With the undeniable honesty, quiet and raw and bleeding into each syllable. It doesn't feel like she deserves his compassion or understanding, but she knows that's just the hurt part of her. She can take a breath and appreciate the fact that he's still just - steadily and uncompromisingly himself. She gives his hand a squeeze, trying to silently convey her gratitude for that point of connection.
His reaction, kind and solid as it is, does allow some of the tension that's crept into her shoulders to drain out again. She watches him in silence for a moment, trying to figure out how she wants to reply.] Thank you. It's...two things can be true. My dad wasn't there. He's still not there. He...failed us, in a lot of ways. But I'm still the reason Kevin is dead. Nothing can change that. But I can work hard and just try to be a little bit better every day, you know? [Her free hand, resting on his shoulder, smooths at the fabric of his shirt as she takes a moment to gather her thoughts.] Thank you. For listening. And for being - very you while you listened. [She's smiling a little as she says it.] I, uh, don't tell a lot of people about that part of my life. [It's true, but she's not sure why she tacks it on there. Maybe just to share in that moment of emotional vulnerability. To let him know that she understands what it means that he'd shared his worries about his scars with her.]
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His gaze takes in her expression, watching for every small shift; and when he thinks he notices her shoulders drop down a bit, he takes that as a positive sign. He hasn't let go of her hand, and lets his other hand smooth across her forearm as he listens to her response. It breaks his heart a little, knowing she's had to go through this. It felt incredibly cruel that things like this happened, period. But he knows it's unfortunately a part of life; having seen terrible things happen to people he cares about and watching how they dealt with the fallout was never easy. He'd like to say after over a decade in the service that he's gotten better at it, but it still hits him just as hard. All he could really do was be a source of solidity and support, offer help in the ways he could.
He just nods with a small grin when she thanks him for listening, that grin widening a little at the 'being very you' part. ]
I'm glad you told me. [ His tone is warm as he reaches up to touch her face, just a brush of fingertips for a moment as his gaze holds hers steadily. He feels honored that she did, that she trusted him with this. It's not easy, putting the most fragile and delicate parts of yourself in someone else's hands; not knowing exactly what was going to happen. That kind of vulnerability was difficult. Good thing then that they were both the type that didn't back down from things that were challenging. ]
I've, uh... I've lost friends, during missions. People I've counted as family. [ He glances down a moment, then his eyes lift back to hers. ] And it... that kind of pain never really leaves you. Not that I'd want it to, because if it did it'd feel too much like... [ He breathes out, shaking his head a little. ] I don't know, that I was forgetting them. So this is just... me saying that I understand how grief changes things. It changes everything. And I get what you're saying - that two things can be true. I just... I'm in your corner, is what I'm getting at.
[ There's a small smile on his face as he looks at her, squeezing her hand again as he leans forward to press his lips against hers; taking a moment to emphasize his words with the gesture. ]
You still comfortable like this? We can move if you want. I mean, I'm still gonna velcro myself to you, just as a fair warning. [ He teases lightly, fairly certain she's noticed by now he's a pretty touch based kind of person. Not that he doesn't give people their space if and when it's needed, of course. This is just his way of checking in. ]
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Her head tips a bit, leaning in to that graze of fingertips against her cheek, and she gives his hand another squeeze.] Me too. [She'd hardly been planning to - spill out all the messiest parts of her life for him. But there's something almost like relief in it. In knowing that he's seen the darkest corners of her life and he's still here. Still looking forward to learning more.
She listens, her eyes searching his, when he talks about the people that he's lost. When he takes a breath, she interjects with a quiet but sincere,] I'm sorry that you know what that feels like. [It's part of life. An inevitable part of life, even. But she can tell that there's loss that weighs on him just as heavily as the loss that she feels. So she leans in, meeting him for that kiss. Her head turns after so she can press another on his cheek, letting her lips linger there for just a moment. Like she's trying to pour her gratitude that they were able to share this moment into a simple gesture.
When he questions if she's comfortable, she leans back so she can smile at him. The idea of him velcroing himself to her startles a laugh out her.] You're really sweet velcro. [She's comfortable. Moreover, she's in no rush to get him out of her apartment. So instead, she lets out a thoughtful hum, considering him for a moment.] What would you have done today if you didn't come over here? You can't defer that one to me, the answer is 'case research.'
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The sound of her laugh is a wonderful thing, and it draws a chuckle from him. ] You say that now, but just wait until you try to get up and do something and I'm still just---[ He then attempts to demonstrate the velcro effect by leaning forward, wrapping his arms around her and clutching tight like he's about to fall off a tall building or something. He leans into being ridiculous when he's at his most comfortable, so really, it's her fault he's like this.
As he pulls back, his hands rest atop her thighs and her question pulls a thoughtful look from him. ] Hmm, what would I have done without this incredibly gorgeous woman offering to make me pancakes as motivation to get my ass out of bed after drinking way too much tequila... [ He does actually have to think about it for a second. It's a weekend off for him, and those were never very predictable. It usually depended on the type of week he'd had, when it came to what he wanted to do with his rare bits of time off. ]
I'd have stayed in bed, kept the blinds closed and tried to sleep it off. Probably wake up at eight in the evening and be full of energy. [ A slight chuckle. ] Then I'd go for a run and sweat out the rest of the hangover, shower, eat something greasy and go back to bed. I'm going to be a great role model, can you tell? [ Teasing, because he thinks he's got at least a couple years before he has to worry about that sort of thing; right now his name isn't well known and he's going to enjoy his relative anonymity for as long as he can. ]
No two weekends off are exactly the same for me. Sometimes I make so many plans I barely see the apartment other than to sleep. Other times I just wanna crash on the couch and watch movies.
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Karen finds she's having a hard time not smiling as he answers her comment about him being velcro. And she can't help the laugh that bubbles up out of her when he wraps himself around her, trapping one of her arms between them. The other hooks around so she can run her fingers back through his hair, a look of fond amusement on her face as he lets go.] Don't threaten me with a good time, Torres.
[Her hands shift to rest on his shoulders, and she can feel the warm press of his hands on her thighs as he mulls over her question. The corner of her mouth quirks a little at that quick flirtation that comes with his answer, her hands sliding back so she can wind her arms loosely around his neck.
There's a considering look on her face as she listens to him outline what his weekends off look like, but it might not surprise him to find out that she's caught on that joke about him being a role model. She's still smiling a little when he winds up his answer.] First, I know you were joking about the role model thing. But uh, just in case there was a little bit of - worry in there. I think you're going to make a great role model. I can tell from the news coverage I've seen that you work means a lot to you. And I can tell just from talking to you that you care about the world and the people in it. You're going to do a great job.
[It's worth saying. He's so sincere and generous that she finds herself wanting to make sure that he gets to experience that same kind of support in return.] But for today, if you want to crash out and watch some movies, we can. I should warn you that I don't have a TV so I use my tablet screen when I watch things. [She sounds amused as she admits it, one shoulder lifting in a shrug.]
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And while he'd been teasing about the role model comment, there was also a bit of truth there too. Because of course it would matter to him - being seen as a positive influence, especially when it came to people younger than him. It was another part of the responsibility of his job, and he wanted to make sure he handled that with care and consideration. He's touched by her words, and by the fact that she'd made a point to stop and provide him with that reassurance of her belief - that he'd do a good job at this. ] Thank you. [ There's a warmth of sincerity in his tone and his gaze as he looks at her. ] I appreciate hearing that. It's something I worry about sometimes, but... yeah, I do really, genuinely care about the people in this world. I just wanna do right by them.
[ A warm laugh rises from his chest when she mentions watching movies on a tablet screen. ] Funny you should say that, because the last ....three, I think, movies that I've watched have all been from my tablet. And I've got a big TV so I don't have any excuse for my behavior. [ He dips his head a little in mock shame. ] I mean, other than it's just more comfortable being able to watch something without leaving my bed. [ He chuckles a bit at himself because he's realizing he's successfully painted a very not superhero image of himself to her, starting last night with his texts and all throughout this morning with the serenading, and etc. He's reminded of that meme of 'you could have been cool and mysterious, but instead...' Not that he minds, he'd much rather share this side of himself with her than try to be cool. And he very much likes the idea of staying in with her today and relaxing together. ]
That does sound incredibly appealing though. Another good idea of yours. [ She's proven to have so many of those. He gives her thighs a squeeze as he leans in to press a kiss to her lips, lingering there a moment as he takes the opportunity to shameless flirt with her. ] So long as we can pause every so often if I get distracted by you.
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Case in point, some of that fondness is still lingering in the way that she smiles at him when he talks about why being a good role model is important to him. There's a genuine warmth in the way he speaks about it that's impossible to fake. She shifts one of the arms she has curled around him, just so her fingers can lightly trail through the hair at the nape of his neck.] You're going to do great. [There's a certainty to the way that she says it. And she'll elaborate on it if he asks how she can be so sure.
That warm laugh of his is more charming than it has any right to be, and she just grins when he talks about how there's no excuse for his tablet watching behavior. Maybe the image he's painting isn't superhero like, but it is real. And she likes real. A lot more than she likes cool or mysterious. Getting to know the truest version of a person is a privilege, and she's absolutely looking forward to learning more about him.
She can't pretend that she doesn't feel a little jolt when his hands squeeze her thighs, and she returns the kiss, tipping her head to capture his mouth again for another few moments before he leans back to flirt in a way that brings that hint of pink back to her cheeks.] Wow, you're an outrageous flirt. [There's teasing humor in it, as if she'd just noticed. She unwinds her arms so she can run her hands down along his shoulders and arms, taking his hands in hers.] I think we can come to an arrangement. [She gets off of his lap, giving his hands a gentle tug so he'll stand and join her.] Come on. Tablet's in my room. [She's going to have to turn the record player off on the way. And she recognizes that watching a movie in bed is probably going to be akin to playing with fire. Which she doesn't mind. Getting comfortably sprawled out in bed to enjoy his company is just as appealing.]
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I have no idea what you're talking about. [ At her outrageous (accurate) accusation of him being an outrageous flirt, he manages to feign a look of innocence; but it's somewhat ruined by the way his eyes fall to her lips again and the way his palms slide along her thighs for a moment while she's running her hands down his shoulders and arms. Like he just can't help himself. And it's true, he'll flirt with her any chance he gets.
He stands when she gives his hands a tug, he doesn't need any convincing when it comes to joining her in her room. The idea of stretching out and watching something together is so very appealing in a variety of ways. He's very much a guy that likes to cuddle, so even if that's all that happened, it's a far better way to watch a movie than sitting on a couch. But also, yeah, who is he kidding here, it's definitely playing with fire. He wonders at what point he'll ask her to pause the movie, if he'll get at least fifteen minutes in before becoming distracted. ]
So is this arrangement a.. 'from the desk of Karen Page' type official document? Because I'll sign it without even reading the fine print, my better judgement is thoroughly compromised.
[ His tone is easy and teasing as he gathers up their glasses of water and waits for her to turn the record player off; then follows her toward her room. ]
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She smiles when he lets her pull him to his feet easily, glad to find that they're on the same page. She takes a moment to get the record off the player and puts it back in the sleeve, tucking it back in on the shelf.
When she turns back to him, she listens to his question, her brows arching. One hand runs over her mouth to hide a smile.] I promise I'll try not to take advantage of your compromised judgment. But you should always read the fine print. Especially in officially documents I give you. [There's a mischievous glimmer in her eyes as she takes her glass of water from his hand.] I work with really good lawyers.
[Her head tips a bit to indicate the way down the hall, and she leads him into her room. The overhead light is off, but the window shade is half open. The room is dimly lit by the diffused gray light coming in from the overcast day. The room itself is small the way the rest of the apartment is, but she's made good use of the space. It's a little less neat in here than it had been out in the living room and kitchen. There's some jewelry and a taser on top of the dresser, a cardigan tossed over the bed's foot board, and a pair of heels on the floor over by the window. The closet door is closed, with a lanyard dangling from the doorknob.
There's a plush throw rug underneath the queen sized bed, which is only partially made. She's clearly picked the bed dressing for comfort - there's a soft looking duvet and silky sheets, and a few more pillows than are strictly necessary. There is also a notable lack of side tables and she lets out a laugh, setting her glass down on the top of the dresser.] Uh, sorry. You can put your glass on the floor in case you want a drink, I guess?
[Bending down, she gets her tablet out of the bag by the dresser and then gets into bed. With a smile, she pats the mattress next to her.] Come on, get comfortable. [She figures the verbal invitation is worth it, as a reminder that she's welcomed him in here. She leans back against the pillows as she turns the tablet on.]
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The soft, grey light that filters in from the window in her room casts the space in a cozy sort of feeling; especially with the very inviting looking bedding and pillows. He takes note of the unmade status of the bed with a small grin, thinking that his own bed probably looks like a tangled mess of sheets and duvet currently (still getting used to the bed meant moving around a lot while he slept) - as he'd forgotten to make it before heading out the door. His eyes scan the small details, eventually landing on the taser atop her dresser next to the jewelry. ] Good choice. [ He recognizes the particular model, and just like the extra locks on her door he can appreciate the fact that she's clearly no stranger to making her own space as safe as possible.
He sets his glass down on the floor with a chuckle; far enough away that neither of them will accidentally trip over it. He grins at her invitation, and settles in beside her, taking a moment to appreciate the cushy-ness of the duvet, the silky sheets, and the pillows propped up behind them. ] Oh damn, you went all out. This is really nice. [ He shifts so he can wrap an arm around her shoulders and pull her close as he settles back against the pillows. There's definitely a unique kind of intimacy in the fact that this is the first time he's seeing her room, and laying in her bed; but there is something so natural about the feeling of having her close like this - he's both incredibly comfortable and also feeling that same spark of anticipation that he'd felt earlier when their kiss had taken a more heated turn.
His free hand rests atop her forearm, thumb brushing against her skin while he turns his head to look over at her with an amused grin. ] I'm just thinking of the state of my bed right now in comparison, and realizing I may have to make a couple changes.
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Karen is already making a mental note to buy a bedside table as he gets settled in on the other side of her bed. It feels like an oversight in hosting duties, now that he's letting his glass rest on the floor for retrieval. Part of her is tempted to go grab the ottoman out of the living room, but it's cushy enough that she's not entirely sure a glass will stand up on it.
Thankfully, his compliment on her choice of bedding is a distraction enough from that train of thought. She smiles over at him, leaning in against his side as she feels the warm weight of his arm settle around her shoulders.] I don't have a lot of indulgences, but having a comfortable bed is definitely one of them. [It's nice, to have somewhere to crash that she can just let all the tension of the day seep away.
The feel of his arm around her, with his fingers gently brushing her skin, is distracting now that they're both stretched out in her bed. It's a good kind of distraction. The kind of thing she wouldn't mind happening on a regular basis. She glances up at him with a quick grin when he makes a comment about his bed.] What kind of changes are we talking about?
[It's quiet for a moment as she considers the movie options. She turns in towards him, shifting so she can let her arm curl around his back.] Oh, hear me out - [it's clear an idea has suddenly popped into her head, and after typing in a few letters, she opens up The Princess Bride. A little mix of everything and a happy ending - which she's pretty sure is the perfect vibe for a hungover, rainy morning.] What do you think?
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His fingers continue to idly trace along her arm while he's thinking out loud about how to upgrade his own sleeping set up. ] Well I definitely need a better duvet. This one's very comfy. And I don't know, I'm kinda partial to having this many pillows. [ He huffs a chuckle at the thought, considering he'd gone so long being accustomed to using a backpack as a pillow. Apparently all it took was experiencing Karen's particular brand of luxury (ie - more than two pillows) for a few moments to covert him. In reality, it's equal parts that her bedding is really nice and also that her bed happens to include her; the key element here. There's a softer, more earnest tone as he continues with the main reason behind the bedding upgrade - ] I guess I'm just thinking ahead you know, I want to make sure my own space is at least as comfy when the roles are reversed and it's me making you hangover pancakes.
[ Ending it on a slightly teasing note, but the sincerity of the statement remains. He likes the idea of thinking ahead a little, especially where it involves her. ] I do have good sheets though, [ he adds, ] they were the first thing I bought, when I was getting everything together for the apartment. Got the highest thread count known to man, and was not disappointed.
[ So at least in that department his bedding is pretty up to par. He glances toward the tablet screen, and when The Princess Bride pops up he does not bother hiding his enthusiasm. His eyes light up and a wide smile stretches immediately across his face ] Are you kidding me, that's a classic! I haven't seen it in... forever. Perfect choice, [ he punctuates the statement by pressing a kiss (or two) against her temple, the arm around her giving her a tight squeeze before he settles back against the pillows. ] When's the last time you watched it?
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Those concerns do mercifully feel about a million miles away, with the gentle patter of the rain on the window and the warmth of his body close against hers. If she wasn't already distracted, that remarkably sweet idea about planning ahead to have her over his place would certainly do the trick. That comment earns a smile, and she leans in to drop a kiss on his cheek.] You know, I'd be happy to come over even if I wasn't hungover. Especially now that I know you treated yourself to the good sheets. [It really does make a surprising amount of difference when it comes to getting a good night of sleep. After a beat, she tacks on,] I got the duvet in a bargain bin sale at a store that was going out of business. It might be the best sale find I've ever made.
[His obvious delight in her movie suggestion is charming enough that all she can do is chuckle a little. Her head tips, leaning in to the press of his lips against her temple.] Oh, three or four years, I think? We got to talking at the office about when we thought the 30th anniversary of the movie was and then it turned out we were off by a good five years. I ended up watching it anyway.
[And there's no good place to prop the tablet up. So after a moment of consideration, she shifts forward and accordion folds the duvet cover at the foot of the bed. It lets her lean the tablet against the foot board, and elevate it a bit above their feet. She's feeling pleased with her solution as she hits play. A smile lingers on her lips as she glances back over her shoulder at him so she won't misjudge where he is, and she leans back in against him, her head tipping in to rest on his shoulder.
She might be a workaholic, but she can still recognize that this is a much nicer way to be spending her morning.]
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Needless to say, it was just easier overall for him to feel like he could be himself around someone that was at least a little familiar with what his line of work entailed; and that was definitely Karen. So it's no wonder, he thinks, that he's ended up feeling so comfortable around her. ]
I was gonna say, I can just make you pancakes without you needing to be hungover. [ He remarks with a soft chuckle. ] Or chilaquiles, if you feel like something more savory. [ The hangover pancakes she'd made him he's not sure he can replicate exactly (they were the perfect size and fluffiness okay), but he's a good cook, there's plenty of things he'd be happy to make. That and he does like the idea of waking up with her and making breakfast together - there was something about that brief image in his head that makes his hand squeeze her shoulder in response. Like a warmth that couldn't be contained without some kind of physical response on his part. ]
Wow, it's really been out that long? It's absolutely in my top five favorites. [ When she hits play and leans back against the pillows, he wraps his arm around her again; pressing a kiss to the top of her head as she settles it against his shoulder. There's a slow, content sigh that leaves his chest as the movie starts playing; the rain softly falling outside and the distant sounds of the city below fade into the backdrop and for this moment in time it's as if the rest of the world beyond her apartment fails to exist.
When they get to the part where Westley is fighting Inigo, an amused grin tugs at the corner of his lips. ] I've definitely dressed up as this guy for Halloween when I was younger. [ He gestures toward Westley on the screen.
As the movie continues to play out, he laughs at the familiar dry humor sprinkled here and there into certain scenes, and is proud of himself that he managed to make it at least over fifteen minutes before he notices the hand that's been tracing along her forearm and wrist has settled itself across her lap; and there's a sliver of bare skin between the hem of her shirt and the waistband her pants that he can feel beneath his palm. It's too tempting not to let his fingertips skim across that soft surface. ]
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It helps too, knowing that he's been in the field. That he understands the risks inherent in a life that involves fighting back against injustice. She's met people that seem to understand it conceptually, but there's a difference between conceptual understanding and first hand knowledge.
The way he chuckles about her not needing to be hungover to go over makes her smile. Though she's quick to tip her head so she can look at him, her excitement evident in her expression.] Listen, I will re-arrange my schedule if you want to make me chilaquiles. Literally name the time and I will be there. [There's no bad time for chilaquiles. But if pressed, she would admit that she finds the idea of waking up for breakfast with him equally appealing.
She's pleased when he expresses his approval for the choice of movie. Though she does tack on,] I'm not going to ask you for your top five favorite movies now, but I am going to ask you that eventually. [Just as a fair heads up. She's content to lean in against him, enjoying the quiet companionship of the moment. And then she laughs a little, smiling to herself at his Halloween confession.] I can see it. That would make a great costume for you now, too. [All the black, the face mask? Absolutely dashing.
The movie is comfortably familiar, and she's laughing quietly too at some of the jokes she half remembers. And then she feels the way his fingertips run lightly across the skin of her side in a way that sends an immediate shiver rippling through her skin. Her head lifts so she can look at him, the corner of her mouth twitching in a half smile.] That was definitely longer than fifteen minutes. [Which deserves recognition of some kind, so she leans in, pressing a few slow, idle kisses along his jaw line.]
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Good, because I want to know your top fives too. [ This gives him time to actually think about what's currently on that list and if he needs to revise it for more recent movies - not that he actually gets enough time to keep up with what's come out in the past year or so, but sometimes he'd make exceptions if a movie really caught his eye.
He lets out a quiet laugh at her comment about wearing that costume now, and the idea of dressing up as Westley again (provided she obviously joined him as Buttercup) is pretty amusing. He files that away as an idea for later, Halloween wasn't anytime soon but who said they had to wait until then to be ridiculous.
With her so close to him, he registers that subtle shiver and can't help but grin a little when she looks up at him. ] Don't get too used to it. [ He murmurs teasingly, realizing he really should have set the bar lower - maybe ten minutes, something like that. His eyes slip shut with a pleased sound when her lips move along his jaw line, and his fingertips slip beneath the hem of her shirt to travel across her waist; the warmth of his palm brushing over the curve of her hip. ] Your skin is really soft. [ It's quiet, his voice sounding a bit more husky as he shifts to better continue to explore along her waist and hip. ]
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I was hoping you wouldn't hold me to answering that question too. Movies are a little easier than music, at least. [By a very, very small margin. She's going to have to do a mental review of her all time favorites as well. And will doubtlessly realize in the process that it's been years since she's set foot in a movie theater.
And he is far too distracting for her own good. The sound he makes when her lips press against his jaw only serves to encourage her further. She's already lost track of the movie, her attention instead diverted between the feeling of his hand on her hip, the warmth of the skin under her lips. She's making a slow trail back towards his ear, and when she hears the way his voice has gone husky again, her teeth catch his earlobe to give it a light, teasing tug. She rolls onto her side, leaning closer in against him. One hand rests on his stomach and runs slowly up to his chest as she murmurs against his ear,] you are a...really tempting distraction from this classic movie.
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It feels like the wiring of his body is just particularly sensitive for some reason, maybe it's the atmosphere - quiet, intimate, no distractions but the two of them. Or maybe it's just her. Her, and all the built up anticipation from before combining with this moment as well. ]
Good thing we've both seen it already. [ His response is in the same low tone, a quick flicker of a grin across his face as he shifts for a brief moment to reach toward the foot of the bed and turn the tablet off. Technically he could have paused it, but he knows himself well enough to know that he has no intention of shifting his focus back to a movie after the direction things have begun to take. He'd much rather keep touching her, and feeling her hands on him.
He settles back against the pillows, and pulls her close the way she had been - on her side and leaning into him as he reaches for her, drawing her closer so he can capture her lips in a slow, heated kiss. His hand wanders further beneath the hem of her shirt, skimming over her stomach and sliding upward, thumb brushing along the underside of her bra. And it's then that he breaks from the kiss to murmur, soft and eagerly against her lips - ] I want to feel more of your skin against mine. [ He kisses her once more, before pulling away just enough to tug his shirt up and off his chest, discarding it off the side of the bed as he pauses a moment; waiting to see if she'll be comfortable doing the same. Either way, he's more than warm enough to not be wearing it right now. Especially if it means feeling her hands against his skin without the barrier of fabric in the way. ]
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When he settles back after turning off the tablet, she doesn't need any encouragement to lean back into him. Her arm curls around him as she indulges in that kiss and the way it's making the warmth between them steadily climb again. Her fingertips trail down along the side of his neck and over his shoulder, and there's no hiding the shiver that skates through her skin again, chasing the path of his fingers up to the band of her bra in the front.
She can't help but chuckle a little at his words, smiling against his mouth as she presses another kiss there.] Unreasonably hot, [she murmurs in return, as a call back to what she'd said earlier. Her hand runs up along his side as she watches him peel his shirt off, feeling the warmth of his skin under her hand. She appreciates the confidence in his gesture, after that earlier hesitation about his scars. The way her eyes wander over him make it clear that he makes a very appealing picture.
And she can't resist moving back in, kissing her way down from his jaw and neck, her lips lingering with warm intention against his skin. She drops a final kiss on his shoulder before tugging her shirt off, and the smile is back as she tosses it off the side of the bed. She leans back up against him, feeling acutely aware of all the places his skin is pressed against hers. Her lips brush against his, her voice low and warmly teasing.] Looks like we both might be full of good ideas.
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When her lips travel down along his jaw and neck, warm against his skin, it's a wonderful sort of tease of sensation just before she pulls back to tug her shirt off. Joaquin is pretty shameless by nature, and the way his eyes roam over her after she tosses the shirt to the side is nothing short of shamelessly appreciative.
His arms wrap around her with a hum of approval as the heat and softness of her skin presses against his. That brush of her lips has him chasing after her mouth, managing to utter - ] You are fucking gorgeous, [ just before capturing her lips in a kiss. One that takes very little time before it becomes more heated, his fingers resting beneath her chin while his other hand presses flat against the small of her back, fingers splayed. With a brush of his tongue against her lower lip, he deepens the kiss with a low, eager sound.
Kissing her like this is just more fuel to the fire; he feels every inch of where his skin is connected to hers, and he's greedy for even more. After a few, slow moments of just leaning into the passion building from that kiss, his fingers bump up against the band of her bra, very much wanting to unfasten and take it off, but first asking (just to be sure) - ] This okay? [ He pauses with his fingers at the hooks, his mouth still hovering close to hers, his breathing a little quicker now. ]
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The way his gaze takes her in once her shirt is off is just unfairly distracting. She can feel that swoop in her stomach again, equal parts heat and attraction and affection. He calls her fucking gorgeous and she hums a soft, content sound into his mouth as she kisses him with languid intention, trying to wordlessly pour her interest and desire into him. Her fingers curl gently into his hair while her other hand trails slowly up and down his back. The press of her fingertips there on his skin is warm and meandering, though she lets her nails ghost along the same path every so often, feather light.
She can feel the press of his fingers near where her bra fastens shut, and she can't help but close what little gap remains between them. The side of her foot brushes against the side of his shin, and then she lets her leg drape over his, bringing their hips tantalizingly close together. His question is met with a shaky inhalation, and her eyes meet his as she lets out a breath of a laugh.] I'm going to if you don't. [Her voice is quiet, but there's a playful hint of a challenge in it as she unwinds her arms from around him so she can pull them through the straps of her bra.]
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Her fingertips roaming his skin send little shivers of anticipation through him, particularly when her nails scrape barely there paths along the surface - pulling a breathy sort of groan from him when their lips part for the briefest of moments. When she drapes her leg over his, he's quick to wrap a hand around her thigh, squeezing tight as his hips instinctively press forward to meet with hers. With her body flush against him like this, his heartbeat thuds against his chest and he feels almost dizzy with how much he wants her. They're not just playing with fire at this point, it's a full on blaze that only increases with each touch.
Her response to his question draws a huff of a chuckle from him, and he needs no further encouragement than that; with a quick twist of his fingers he's got the fastening undone. Once it's off he pulls her tight against his chest, a low sound leaving his lips as he kisses her again; that skin against skin rush hits him all over, a faint tremble of pleasure passing through his body as his lips begin to travel down her jaw and to her neck.
When he finds the flutter of her pulse point, he breathes her name against her skin - reverent and eager. The hand gripping her thigh slides upward, a slow drag from thigh to hip, caressing the dip of her waist and up until his palm cups her breast; thumb brushing feather light across her nipple. ]
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She likes the little shivers she can feel rippling after the path of her hands almost as much as she likes the confident way his hand trails from her thigh up to her breast. Her fingertips press more firmly against his back, and she can't help but arch her hips, rubbing herself up against him in a way that makes her breath catch in her throat. All of her nerve endings feel like they're alight and sensitive, like she's too conscious of everywhere she can feel his hands and body and mouth. Her pulse is hammering quickly, and there's a deeper pink flush settling in to her skin.
When he exhales her name, she makes a low hum of acknowledgement, and she lets her hand dip further down. The tips of her fingers trail lightly against his skin, just along the inside of his waistband, tracing a line across his back and around his hip. Almost like she's questioning if that's an okay step to take. Her other hand curls in his hair, fingertips rubbing against his scalp, as she lets out a shaky breath. All she can seem to focus on is him, which is a real feat for a woman that usually has about a hundred things running through her mind at once. Her voice is a low, appreciative murmur as she says,] God, you're amazing. [Not just for the extremely distracting and promising making out and what it seems to be leading toward, but just - for showing up exactly as himself. He's so genuinely and unabashedly himself in a way she can't help but appreciate.]
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The combination of her hand buried in his hair, while the other teases slowly along the waistband of his pants is driving him more than a little crazy; his breathing ragged as he drags his mouth from her neck down along her collarbone. His hips shift a little closer to her, eager to feel her touch and not shy about it either. Her skin feels noticeably warmer beneath his lips, that flush of color having brought heat along with it; and he murmurs a hum at her words, half a smile forming across his lips as he continues to kiss a path across her collarbones, dipping lower. ]
You're incredible. [ It's a half formed whisper, something beyond just desire in his tone then - like he's having a hard time believing any of this isn't just a really vivid, really amazing dream that he's about to wake up from. But the warmth and softness of her body against his, beneath his mouth and his touch is a constant reminder that it's not actually a dream. She's real, and he's just very lucky to have met her - like he'd said before. Everything about her was intriguing to him, like a bunch of puzzle pieces he couldn't wait to figure out how each fit together, and right now he's just lost to how amazing it feels to give a physical expression to that particular feeling. ]
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