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bargain_batman
Sep. 30th, 2024 04:48 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
[ooc: Continue from here]
[After an awkward introduction on Tinder, Rey was pleasantly surprised to find out Diego was located not too far from where she lived. A weird coincidence, and she wasn't going to look into further. No need to let her mind go down that rabbit hole. She could hear Finn's voice in her mind, gently teasing her that, "Things happen for a reason, you know."
God, she was going out to meet someone willingly for the first time since Ben's death. A year of grieving, and therapy to help her get back on her feet. Sort of. Grief wasn't linear, and god she wished it was. It would have made things easier, to go through each step and check it off some sort of list. There were good days, and bad days. So far, the number of good days had out numbered the bad ones.
Giving herself another pep talk, she left her home and headed to the agree upon meeting location; a small coffee shop further in the city. Plenty of people coming and going.
The scent of coffee and hot chai wafted through the air as Rey entered. A quick scan and she found no sign of Diego. Guess she got there first. She pushed down feelings of nervousness in favor of grabbing a quick cup of drip coffee and finding a seat.
So that's where Diego would find her, head bowed reading something on her phone. A young woman wearing a blue cable knit sweater, jeans and black boots. Her shoulder length hair was down in soft waves--she had put in some effort into her appearance.]
[After an awkward introduction on Tinder, Rey was pleasantly surprised to find out Diego was located not too far from where she lived. A weird coincidence, and she wasn't going to look into further. No need to let her mind go down that rabbit hole. She could hear Finn's voice in her mind, gently teasing her that, "Things happen for a reason, you know."
God, she was going out to meet someone willingly for the first time since Ben's death. A year of grieving, and therapy to help her get back on her feet. Sort of. Grief wasn't linear, and god she wished it was. It would have made things easier, to go through each step and check it off some sort of list. There were good days, and bad days. So far, the number of good days had out numbered the bad ones.
Giving herself another pep talk, she left her home and headed to the agree upon meeting location; a small coffee shop further in the city. Plenty of people coming and going.
The scent of coffee and hot chai wafted through the air as Rey entered. A quick scan and she found no sign of Diego. Guess she got there first. She pushed down feelings of nervousness in favor of grabbing a quick cup of drip coffee and finding a seat.
So that's where Diego would find her, head bowed reading something on her phone. A young woman wearing a blue cable knit sweater, jeans and black boots. Her shoulder length hair was down in soft waves--she had put in some effort into her appearance.]
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Date: 2024-10-01 01:00 am (UTC)Rey had been the nicest response he received. Hers also felt the most genuine. Yet he couldn't chance making a fool of himself and kept watch of the coffee shop from a distance to see if she'd actually show up. A surge of nervousness ran through him at seeing her enter the place. Maybe it was excitement? He immediately felt a pang of regret at having her look around and not see him. Diego made his way quickly over, not letting her sit for long before coming through the doors.
He wore a black henley with black jeans and boots but not his knife bandolier or any other tactical gear. His wardrobe didn't have much of a variety, however, he wore the nicest articles of clothing that he owned. ]
Hey
[ He greeted with a soft smile and took the seat across from her. ]
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Date: 2024-10-01 01:09 am (UTC)Thankfully, she didn't have to resort to those tactics. The person she had been talking to online was here. Sure, she had hoped he would come but she was partially prepared for disappointment. After all, people of her generation were taught about 'stranger danger.' And, well, some people could be dicks and lead others on.
Not in this case.
Rey lifted her head from her phone, taking in all the black Diego wore. It suited him, she wasn't sure why, but it did.]
Hi. [She greeted, giving him a soft smile in return.] I didn't bring baggage, but I did buy a coffee, hope that's alright. [A (stupid) joke, meant to help ease the tension between them. Talking online was one thing, talking in person was a different ball game entirely.]
It's really nice to meet you, Diego.
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Date: 2024-10-02 01:07 am (UTC)Coffee's good. It's what we're here for. And talking, I think.
[ He extended a hand across the table to shake in greeting. Hopefully she didn't find his calluses off-putting. Rey hadn't been bothered by the scars on his head from what he could tell. If she took his hand, Diego would be mindful to only return her strength in the grip. He'd been taught that women were equals and he was respectful unless given a reason not to be. ]
It's nice meeting you.
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Date: 2024-10-02 10:13 am (UTC)Another recommendation from her therapist--turn her anger and hurt into something productive.
In the midst of taking his hand there was a pleasant shiver that ran down her spine. Was that a spark? Something for Rey to over analyze later.
She began to pull her hand back, letting it rest on top of the table next to her coffee.]
Did you want anything? I don't mind waiting. [Since she got there early, and if he wanted something then the wait wouldn't be too bad. The line looked short for the moment.
But, ah, yeah. They were here to talk. Fuck, what could they talk about that wasn't their emotional baggage?]
Or, if you'd want to just talk...we can. I..don't do this a lot. [Nervousness hung off her words and then she realized she might need to clarify.] Meeting people from Tinder that is. I do go out of the house--errands, work, hang out with others. [Oh fuck, she was starting to ramble.
Rey paused, eyes drifting down to her coffee for a brief moment then back up at Diego. Fuck it, might as well own it.] And if you can't tell, I sort of ramble on.
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Date: 2024-10-04 12:27 am (UTC)[ Given the roughness of his hand, hers felt soft. Yet she gave a firm handshake. He enjoyed the excitement she gave off. Rey seemed genuine and a part of him worried that he'd hurt her given his track record of failed relationships. Nothing said that they couldn't be friends. In the end, that was all he had with Eudora.
He excused himself before getting too deep into his own head. It was bad enough that he'd joined her at the coffee shop and was getting a water. His finances weren't the greatest at the moment but he had no real excuse to decline meeting in a couple of hours besides the painful reality of being broke. All the same, he looked over the menu while in line then pretended he couldn't decide on any of the choices and asked for a water 'to start' with the idea that he'd return for something else.
It also allowed him to get back to Rey sooner. He hoped she might view it that way. Diego held a small smile as he slipped into his seat again. His hands remained on the table with the plastic clear cup of water between them. ]
For the record, I like the rambling. Just don't tell my brother Klaus when you meet him. I get on him a lot for it but that's what brothers do.
[ And it wasn't as if Klaus ever really listend to him but Diego didn't want to dump too much family shenanigans on Rey so soon. Diego held a smirk then continued. ]
It's his fault I was on Tinder. He keeps saying I should meet people so you have him to blame for the terrible post. So you're my first.
[ The crooked grin returned before Diego took a sip of his water, never leaving her eyes with his. ]
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Date: 2024-10-04 12:51 am (UTC)[Rey watched him get up from his seat, watching as got in line. It didn't seem unusual for someone to ask for water at a coffee shop. They served teas, and other items there, but if all he wanted to have was water then that's was fine.
She didn't know Diego's finances, and figured maybe he wasn't a tea or coffee drinker--those types of people did exist in the world...
Which made her question, how they survived the work week. A question for her to dwell on for another time. She briefly looked back down at her phone, sending a quick text to let one of her friends know where she was, and what she was doing. While Rey was fine to handle herself, and believed Diego had no ill intentions, a lot could happen between them parting and her heading back home.
He came back soon enough, slipping back into his seat to face her. She blinked a few times, caught by surprise of the mention of meeting his brother. A matter of when, not if. Maybe this was leading into new, uncharted territory, something she hadn't explored in about a year.]
That's good to know. I tend to ramble sometimes. [Ramble on and on as her thoughts went from her head to her mouth because her brain could not stop thinking. Especially when she was stressed.] But, I've heard siblings tease each other. Unless movies and books have been lying to me for all these years.
[Another joke, trying to curb the nervousness she felt. Nervousness and excitement all rolled into one.]
I will say your profile was very well written, and eye catching. Most people try to put on their more "positive" traits, but yours... [Her smile widened.] It had a lot of character. So I don't think you should blame your brother too much.
[Her gaze dropped to her coffee, debating between taking a sip or if she should explain the real reason why she was on that site. No, he said no emotional baggage. She would honor that request. Crafting an answer, she looked back up at Diego.]
More or less the same reason--meet people. Do something other than work and share the cat I co-own with a friend. Oh, and the gym. I go here and there, and run. [A beat, another moment to realize she might be coming across as one of those 'fitness' and 'overly healthy' people on social media.] J-just for fun and to clear my head. Bonus? It keeps me healthy and from yelling at people at work.
[A nervous chuckle as she brought up her coffee cup to take a quick sip. She couldn't talk if she had something in her mouth!]
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Date: 2024-10-06 03:12 pm (UTC)The thought was shoved out of his mind as he returned to sit across from Rey. It was surprising to hear her talk about the info Klaus wrote on the Tinder account. While he was sure that his brother had completely meant to put him out in the dating pool, Diego hadn't considered any of it flattering. Was character a nice word for flawed? He didn't let any of his doubt slip onto his features and kept a soft hint of a smile on his lips between a sip of water. ]
You own the one eyed orange tabby with a friend?
[ The question was immediate. How many time had he heard 'friend' when it was an ex who tried to stay in the picture. Diego could've been nicer in describing her pet. He'd never had one and barely had experience with people who owned any other than the corner store who had a rather docile tuxedo cat that he'd pet when checking out.
It was horrible to somewhat gloss over everything else she shared and honed in on that but Diego didn't handle competition well. Or disappointment. ]
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Date: 2024-10-06 03:46 pm (UTC)Mhmm. [The brunette nodded, finishing up her sip of coffee.] His name is BB, and he belongs to my friend, Poe. He's a pilot, and flies a lot. He's looking to switch careers, but he loves the skies as much as he loves movies. [There was a fondness in her voice as she talked about him, but nothing that felt like she was secretly crushing on him or anything.]
I met Poe after meeting my friend, Finn, in college. We all became very close with each other, though BB took more time to warm up to Finn than with me. [So Rey had two men in her life that she was very good friends with, and had a strong bond. Two friends she would risk her life for because they were her chosen family.
She briefly looked down at her coffee cup, her thumb brushing against the side of it as a pleasant memory danced across the surface of her mind.]
You know how I told you I have a friends who are a couple and their baggage works well together? I was referring to Poe and Finn. They have their ups and downs, as all couples do, but they work through it.
[Poe nor Finn were competition for Diego. Though, they would probably give him a run for his money in terms of protecting Rey from scummy dude-bros who'd want to date her for shallow reasons.]
But, I watch BB whenever Poe goes out of town and Finn has too many things to work on. My schedule is usually pretty flexible, so I can take care of him whenever they need. And, it's nice coming home after a long day to have someone there to greet you. Even if it's to yell at you with cute meows to feed them.
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Date: 2024-10-08 12:11 am (UTC)It was a good thing that he did, quickly learning how foolish he'd been when she explained further. Diego slowly started to sit back and relax in the seat across from Rey. She didn't seem like someone who would string him along or part of an open relationship. A part of him that stayed guarded wanted to question her but ultimately trusted the feeling he got from the brunette.
He gave a curious smirk when she went on about BB. The expression had nothing to do with the cat but what Rey had hinted to just before. ]
You might as well talk about the baggage. It's eating you up, talking around it.
[ There was a mix of teasing that hid his nerves. Delaying the inevitable would only hurt Rey and he felt in the moment that she deserved better. It wasn't right to open up to him then find that their combined baggage didn't mesh like her friends. The timeline the Hargreeves had found themselves in was confusing, to say the least. First had been the technology. Then it had been the realization that nobody knew the Umbrella Academy.
No doubt she'd reconsider her interest when learning what he did in his spare time and how he made a living. Diego could hear Klaus telling him not to sell himself short. With eyes falling to the table as he grinned and shook his head, Rey might just think he was reacting to what he'd just told her. So he picked his eyes up and started with his. ]
I'm not from around here. My siblings and I ended up here a few months ago, after... things got really bad back home.
[ His smile faded and a sadness filled his brown eyes. ]
One of my brothers got himself into a mess and it dragged another into it. My ex was a cop and she tried to help but...
[ Diego couldn't finish the sentence. He swallowed thickly, realizing it wasn't something he could talk about while out in public. He cleared his throat and shook his head as he redirected to a less messy part of his past. ]
...She was a good cop. We met while going to the police academy together but I got kicked out. She always wanted me to try it again and I wanted her to leave all the red tape out of catching bad guys. I could overlook her being a cop but she couldn't deal with me helping people out without a badge, especially after becoming a detective.
[ He shrugged his shoulders as if to dismiss the wound he felt. ]
It's not like she was the only relationship that I had, just the one I really thought would stick.
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Date: 2024-10-08 01:41 am (UTC)There was a soft chuckle from Rey, biting the inside of her cheek.]
Am I that easy to read? [She teased in return, trying to hide her nervousness and formulate the best path forward. Her baggage....fuck, that would take a long while. More than a coffee date would allow--and probably more than what her therapist would recommend.
Before she could devise that plan, Diego opened up about himself. He drew her in, being vulnerable with her when they had only known each other for a few hours.
Rey didn't press on when he paused. That look in his eyes, the way his words came to a slow halt as though he was trying to figure out a way around the sadness hanging in the air. She could feel tears pricking at the corners of her eyes.
Fuck, the single word ran through her mind. They had more in common than she thought. Either the relationship ended in a bad note (clearly, it left a scar on his heart), or he was part of the dead lover's club.
A club she never wanted to be in, and yet, here she was.
Truly, Rey should have paid more attention to the fact that Diego got kicked out of the Police Academy and "helped" in his own way. But that was the furthest from her mind. Do you feel as broken as I feel at times? The question was on the tip of her tongue, but she held it back. Instead, she leaned back in her chair, crossing one leg over the other. One hand on her knee, the other near her coffee cup.
Rey bowed her head, biting the inside of her cheek again as her hair fell in front of her face. Taking in a deep breath to steady herself, she looked up at Diego. The hand at her knee coming up to sweep back her hair.]
I can't even say he was an "ex" in the traditional sense. We were always 'on' again, and 'off' again. He was a jerk, a... [Another slow in take of breath.] A jackass. [She had to laugh at that part, recounting the many times she called Ben that.] Always grouchy, and hard to read. We were equally stubborn and were hyper independent of one another. I can say he....got me out of my shell more. Showed me I could have a future that was beyond work and staying home reading book after book.
[A future where they could actually be together if she wasn't so stubborn. So afraid to take that next step and be open with him and her feelings.
Rey paused, bringing her hand up to her face again, dabbing at the corners of her eyes.]
It sucks having abandonment issues from your parents, but to have Ben die...that really added to crappy pile.
[So, maybe their baggage mixed well? She wasn't sure. It was the first time she was able to talk about Ben outside of her therapy sessions, and not having a break down. Maybe she was getting better?
Or maybe she was saving that break down for when she was alone in her apartment with BB snuggled up next to her.]
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Date: 2024-10-11 12:48 am (UTC)There was something about her that brought some of his walls down. He’d met people who were self-centered or suffering abuse, whether at the hand of someone else or self-inflicted. She was neither. The few like her who were attractive and kind were in relationships.
Not that he’d been looking as Diego didn’t feel deserving of filling the void that was loneliness in his life. Sharing his baggage would no doubt drive her off. He’d cut himself off when it felt like too much, more than he could voice without embarrassing himself. Only it didn’t seem she’d judge him for it. He felt guilty as her eyes held back tears similar to his.
And then she shared her baggage that left him unable to speak once she finished. He drank water and heard Grace reminding him to picture the word in his mind to battle his stutter that had a habit of creeping up when emotions got the better of him. It was crazy to find someone who also knew what it was like to have someone die.
He took a deep breath, exhaling like a sigh before giving a response. ]
I’m… sorry. I think you found another jackass. Someone grouchy and hard to read.
[ Except he really wasn’t that hard to read when letting someone in. His emotions were on his sleeves around those he liked, and it was happening with Rey. Brown eyes that could turn dark with anger were soft. Timid. Fearful of not being enough. Diego quickly glanced away and cleared his throat.
He sat up, steeling himself. ]
I don’t know if I’d get you out. I’d stay inside and read too.
[ Yet his shoulders began to slump again as he questioned himself. Was he intentionally trying to sabotage meeting a kindred spirit? No, Diego hadn’t been someone different for Eudora and wouldn’t start now. He couldn’t save her but neither was he responsible for her death. Their relationship failed although his feelings had never changed. ]
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Date: 2024-10-11 03:01 pm (UTC)One of my faults, I guess. [She replied back with a soft shrug. At least she was able to hide her emotions when she was working. Throwing herself into computer code was easy to do. A way for her to remove herself from the world and focus on the task at hand. Other things, she could compartmentalize and deal with later...assuming she ever dared to open that box.
But, she did have more faults than Rey cared to list. More baggage than she wanted to talk about--with Diego and her therapist. Yet...she wasn't opposed to opening up more to the other. He seemed to know better than most (and maybe better than Ben) than the fears and insecurities she carried. On the surface, it seemed like their baggage complimented each other. It seemed like it could work--whether it be a friendship or something more.
First, they would have to get through the coffee date, and Rey hoped in sharing her loss that it wouldn't make Diego run. Maybe his ex was still alive. Maybe Rey was overthinking things again. She was prepared to apologize for oversharing when Diego spoke up. He apologize first, making Rey look confused for a moment. Another tear was pricking the corner of her eye--
Fuck, he thought he was a jackass? Who told you? That's a damn lie. Rey shook her head at him, wiping away the tear in her eye.]
No, you shouldn't be apologizing. I'm...I'm sorry. [Her smile turned weak.] I wouldn't want anyone to go through that, you know? [Losing someone so close to them. Someone they saw a future with.
Her brown eyes looked into Diego's, seeing the soft and timid look he had. She was tempted to reach across the table, to rest her hand on his and provide comfort. Would that be too forward? Probably.]
You're not grouchy...at least from how you came across online and now. [But, that could be just a farce. A mask he wore in order to protect himself. It was a possibility that all of it was a lie, a rouse to meet others...but from Rey sat, it seemed to be the truth. He was being honest with her, and that's all she could hope for.]
Diego... [Rey leaned forward, extending her hand out a little. Her palm faced down. If he wanted to reach out, he could.] I'm not comparing you to Ben. You're both different--when I first met Ben, I came close to biting his head off. [Because they nearly got into a heated argument and she was prepared to verbally check him...
Or deck him. Thankfully Poe got between them at the time.]
Meeting you though? It's going a lot better than I would've thought. [Rey told him sincerely. She paused for a moment, chewing the inside of her cheek again before asking:] If...you'd like, we could do this again? [Meet up, share coffee and talk? Of course, her brain got the better of her and she had to clarify further.] It doesn't have to be a date--that is, we don't have to date. There's no pressure to date or be friends. I... [Deep breath, Rey.] I'm over thinking again, I'm so sorry.
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Date: 2024-10-18 03:19 pm (UTC)And then she spoke about meeting again. It was good to hear that she wanted to but it also indicated that their current meeting was coming to an end. Diego gave her a quiet smile again while pulling his hand back. He gave a single nod before speaking. ]
Meeting again would be nice. Maybe at a park if the weather’s good for it.
[ Not only would there be no pressure to consider it a date if she had reservations but he wouldn’t have to figure out how to afford a meal if they went somewhere to have one. Instead of insisting she wasn’t overthinking, he only moved forward with the idea of seeing her again. ]
It can be whatever you want it to be.
[ He was starved for touch and meant what he told her. It was better to make contact with a good person than attempt a hollow date with someone for a shallow night. Diego didn't have any faith he'd be more than a good friend, especially with how much he'd felt that he failed Eudora. ]
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From:wow, no more tired tags. My typos are haunting me
From:I feel that. I should get more sleep, but haha what is that?
From:I hear you do a lot of that when dead so it can obviously wait. xD
From:Clearly it should wait! Or I should be paid for sleep...I'll take the later.
From:Meh, I've been paid to sleep in the military and as a first responder. I'll pass
From:Fair enough!
From:now a bed tester? I’d try that lol
From:LOL yes!! Bed and pillow tester, find the best combinations
From:in luxury hotels... testing if we can get a good night sleep! LOL
From:YES! With high speed wifi to boot
From:miss these 2
From:Missed them 2
From:Re: Missed them 2
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From:A week fews later
Date: 2024-11-13 04:56 pm (UTC)Though, to Rey, meeting at the café counted as an official date to her.
She made sure to keep things under wraps at work. Her personal life wasn't something she talked about to her colleagues, preferring to keep a low profile and let her work speak for herself. However, people were beginning to notice how she actually took five minute breaks to respond to a text, or how a smile came on her face as she sent off another reply.
To her friends, she looped them in on what was going on. Though, she made sure to hold back some details from Finn and Poe. Neither of them needed to know how bad she had it for Diego. Rose knew as Rey had confided in the young woman after she got home and thereafter. How she comforted Rey when she was unsure if she was doing the right, if it was okay to move on from Ben. Rey had to be reminded that this was what Ben wanted for her--for her to find someone else, and it was okay to still miss him.
With Diego, it felt like she could talk to him about anything. She enjoyed the texts he sent her, and loved hearing his voice on the phone. He didn't seem to mind the photos of BB whenever the orange tabby did something cute. More text messages, phone calls and the occasional meet ups. The first one was for a quick run, another was to learn a few defense moves. Each time Diego greeted her with a quick peck, and Rey was starting to wonder if she did something wrong. The kisses were sweet in nature, but...she missed the spark their first kiss had.
Then again, when they did have their first kiss they were close to making out. Maybe it was something she could talk to him about? Whenever she had the courage to do so. Maybe she should've said something during the first fight she watched him in? No, she had been too concerned about him after he won his match. It was something else to watch him go into a ring, get a few hits in and win. Granted, there were a few rounds, and each time she saw him get hit made her want to say something but that wasn't her world. All she could do was cheer him on from the sidelines...
Which brought them to today. An actual date between the two of them. Rey made sure that BB was back wit his parents (just in case anything happened at her apartment), and had Rose go over her outfit again. She normally didn't fret over her outfit choices, but as this was an official date...she wanted to look like she knew what she was doing.
Diego told her they were grabbing lunch, which had to mean she should dress casual. She did her hair in soft waves again, opting to go with a white collared shirt with a dark green sweater over it along with light colored jeans, and simple tennis shoes. Satisfied with how she looked, she headed out of her apartment, hoping Diego was waiting right outside her building.]
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Date: 2024-11-14 02:22 am (UTC)[ He beamed at seeing Rey. Not that she didn't always look great to him but Diego really liked when her hair was down and made no secret of it. He was dressed in black jeans with a new black sweater. It wasn't his nicest ensemble but better than what his old wardrobe consisted of. With the last of his winnings, he'd made it a point to get himself a few nice things to wear for her.
His siblings noticed something different about him over the weeks that passed. Klaus had complained about Diego not using the dating app, never realizing that his brother actually found someone on it. Rather, she found him. Allison, Viktor and Five had been the first to notice a change. It took longer for Klaus then finally Luther but Diego shot down any attempts they made to pry info from him.
Luther and Viktor respected his wishes, not asking questions at the gym or to the brunette who was rooting for their brother. Mixed martial arts weren't long matches due to the pure violence. Diego did well but took a few shots in the process. The swelling took a day to go down and he wanted to celebrate with lunch. It would be this date where he planned on asking her to a real one. Dinners were real dates, right?
He probably would've benefited from talking about his relationship with Rey than hiding it. Yet after what Viktor, Allison and even Klaus had been through... Diego wasn't comfortable talking about his dating life finally taking a good turn. Luther never had a personal life and from what Number Two could put together, neither did Five. He wished Grace was with them but also tried not to dwell on that.
Instead, he focused on Rey and listened to what she said. He learned what she liked and didn't like. He liked practicing spanish and french with her while impressing her with russian. Diego got better with his cell phone, thanks to communicating with her. He enjoyed the pictures--pics she sent of BB and herself. Now he'd gotten an Uber and would hopefully impress her with that. ]
But our ride should be here any minute.
[ He sprung for a black car, curious what the increase in cost was all about while hopeful it would give them a little privacy. Rey wasn't the only one who longed for a lip-lock but Diego remembered how uncomfortable she seemed about a public display. It was also important not to rush being behind closed doors. Diego took her hand when in reach, tugging slightly when he lowered to give her cheek a quick kiss in greeting. ]
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Date: 2024-11-14 01:21 pm (UTC)If you don't have plans later this evening, we could have dinner. BB is with Finn and Poe, so he'll be well taken care of. [Was she a little hopeful that they could spend more time together? Yes. Rey didn't want to get ahead of herself, continuing to remind herself to take baby steps. There wasn't a need to rush into things.
Her eyes glanced over Diego, noting the new sweater he had, but more importantly, checking to see how he was overall. Watching him fight in a violent sport was...different. A bit frightening, but she was there cheering him on. She didn't know his siblings were there at the match, or that they had been a few feet of each other. The young woman was more focused on watching Diego more than anything else.
She was pulled into his embrace and a quick kiss to her cheek. She returned the affection, moving to stand on her toes to kiss Diego's cheek.]
Are you doing okay? Still sore? [She asked, not processing what he said about a ride until a second later. The young woman pulled back slightly, confusion clear in her eyes.] You got us a ride? I have a car we could use. I don't mind driving.
[She preferred public transportation since it was cheaper than gas, and finding parking was always a bitch, but she didn't mind. She also had an old motorcycle, but no need to bring that up at the moment.
Within a few seconds, Diego would get a notification that the black car was coming up to them. A sleek black car pulled up. It looked like a luxury car, but Rey didn't have time to question it. Her door was opened and she was prompted to climb in. There was a murmur of 'hi, thank you' to the driver. If you want to make out, you could. Her mind snickered, making Rey swiftly clamp down on the thought. She focused on putting on her seatbelt and looked back to her date.]
You didn't have to do this, you know. [Rey told him, a slight pout on her face. Without thinking, she reached for his hand and scooted closer to him.]
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Date: 2024-11-15 02:15 am (UTC)He was glad that Rey was still mostly under wraps so he'd have time to explain his siblings to her. A smile widened on his lips when she seemed open to the idea of dinner later that night. ]
I'll see if I can get my suit out of the cleaners.
[ The place he'd been wanting to take her to would require reservations but Diego was sure he could make something work.
She fussed a little about his condition after seeing him fight which brought a smirk to his lips. ]
I'm fine. I've had worse from better, including my own brother.
[ The hired car pulled up and cut the conversation short for the time being. Diego quickly followed Rey in the car, giving the driver a look at his greeting. ]
Well now it's gonna look like we're doing it just 'cause you told us to.
[ The Uber driver gave a shrug and kept driving. Diego gave a lighthearted roll of his eyes then looked to Rey who tucked into his side. ]
You came to my fight. This is the least I can do. But I didn't know you had a car. I still have a lot to learn about you.
[ His hand lightly laced his fingers with hers in hand. ]
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Date: 2024-11-15 02:38 am (UTC)Growing up with very little she had to learn how to make food and supplies last. While she wasn't in dire straights anymore, it was an old habit she couldn't quite let go of. Spending money on friends was fine, but for herself? Rey had to find at least five reasons to justify the purchase.]
Doesn't matter. I was worried you could've broken something. [The brunette told him, trying to hold onto the concern feelings she had for him, but that smirk of his was making it hard to not give in. Was it weird that she was prepared to offer her apartment as a place for him to recuperate after a fight? Probably--they were a month into dating, and offering to take care of him could come across as clingy? Desperate?
Maybe she should have an ice pack on standby for whenever he went back into the ring. She could only hope he wouldn't get badly hurt.
Ohh, was he really trying to do a tic-for-tax with her while they were in the car?]
And you've returned my text messages, and phone calls. [Rey quipped back, being stubborn on the subject. A bit of lighthearted bantering. The brunette let out another huff, trying hard to not look like she was pouting even as she laced her fingers with his. Diego…was right, and she had no issue conceding to that fact. ]
Point made and for the record, I do drive to work.
[Was she close to letting out another huff? Maybe. Silliness aside, she brushed her thumb over the back of Diego's hand.]
I have a lot to learn about you too. Like...if you prefer dark or milk chocolate. Or if you hate the idea of chocolate all together. [A light chuckle, trying to keep the mood light and fun between them as they drove to their destination.
Rey looked down at their intertwined hands, moving to rest his hand on the top of her thigh. Should she ask him about their first kiss now? No, that might make things awkward in the car--for her and the Uber driver. No, she could find a way to ask in a casual and cool sort of way.]
Where are we going anyway?
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Date: 2024-11-16 07:32 am (UTC)The laughter simmered when she appeared concerned with the fight he had. It was sweet. His ex used to worry in a less... kind way. A part of him wondered if it'd been a good idea to have her see him fight. A louder part worried that if Rey didn't like the match, she'd like him being a vigilante even less. The dinner seemed like a good idea to let the cat out of the bag. Either it would be a romantic beginning or a romantic end.
However, her teasing about his chocolate preference managed to give Diego hope that maybe she wouldn't be as serious over him getting hurt once more time went by. ]
Now or later? [ He asked facetiously, lifting their joined hands and kissing the top of hers before lowering it back on her lap. Rey had to know where they were heading to lunch so she likely meant for dinner. Yet his quip teased that she might not know.
The driver didn't find any amusement by the last exchange. ] Wait, you're going with this guy and you don't know where? You two didn't just meet, did ya?
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Date: 2024-11-16 12:39 pm (UTC)I may or may not have a dress that could work. [And it was still early in the day that she could text Rose an 'SOS' to see if she could help with finding a different dress if the black one she had in her closet didn't work. Assuming Rey could find a way to do it discreetly.
She was half expecting him to tell her what his chocolate preference was, and half expecting him to keep teasing her. Turned out it was the latter, making the slight blush on her face deepen to a nice pink color on her cheeks. And now the driver was concerned for her.
Embarrassed? Slightly. Flustered and soon to be tongue-tied? Yes.]
No, no. We met several weeks ago. I know where we're going for lunch, just got distracted. [Rey told the driver, putting on a weak smile and trying to ease their concerns. It had slipped her mind where they were going, but it soon came back. They were going to a diner for lunch, but for dinner? She was still left in the dark.]
He's just very good at distracting me. [Rey muttered under her breath, looking back at her date. There was a playful/shy look in her eyes to show she was fine for the most part.
It didn't dawn on Rey that she could've clarified that Diego was her boyfriend, and that things were truly fine. But, they hadn't had that conversation yet. He was someone she was seeing...exclusively. Someone who made her smile, and laugh. Someone who brought more light into her life.]
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Date: 2024-11-17 12:09 am (UTC)Can you turn the music up or find something other than our conversation to pay attention to?
[ His tension might have lessened but Diego was still visibly annoyed. He wasn't necessarily possessive but didn't like a stranger impeding his time with Rey. ]
Sure thing, Buddy.
[ Soft pop that had been playing at a low volume increased which would do the job of obscuring the conversation between Diego and Rey from the driver. Jason Mraz sung I'm Yours as Diego looked to his date. His features softened and brow rose in something of an apology. She'd been nice the driver. Diego? Not so much. ]
Maybe we drive to dinner. Ever hear of The Musket Room? It's on Elizabeth Street. Someone from the gym is the sous chef there. The food is supposed to be really good.
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Date: 2024-11-17 12:28 am (UTC)Rey squeezed Diego’s hand, hoping the touch would help calm him down. She clicked her tongue and nudged him. They were in a car, and the driver could ask them to get out or worse, crash it.
A bit paranoid? Maybe.
Diego looked apologetic at least. Her thumb started to caress the back of his hand again. ]
I’ve heard of it. I’ve heard my coworkers talk about how nice it is. I don’t know if I have a dress that’ll be fit for its fancy atmosphere. [It was a damn posh place. The sort of place that executives and people with money go to for a nice time out. ]
I heard you need reservations for it too. [ Popular and expensive. If they were going to have dinner there, it would be hard to get a last minute seat. ]
If we’re unable to eat there, we could have dinner at my place? [Just tossing out ideas here. Her home was clean, and furnished. And she mentioned BB wasn’t there for the time being. ]
I have a bottle or two of wine, and I’m not too shabby of a cook. Worse case, we could make cup noodles? I kind of became a pro at that during my Uni days. [She told him with a sheepish look. ]
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Date: 2024-11-17 02:03 am (UTC)I'm sure we could get a table but... [ The smile on his lips widened, clearly excited over her offer have dinner in her place. ] ...it's been a really long time that I've had a home cooked meal. I can help.
[ The car came to a stop at the cafe they were supposed to have lunch at. ]
I'd open the door but hate to interfere in your stimulating conversation.
[ Diego lost the smile on his face as he turned his attention at the sarcastic driver, glaring at the man. ]
Whatever you say, Man. It's your tip. [ With that, Number Two reached for the door handle and pulled his door open. He led the way out without letting go of Rey's hand. She could use his grip to get out of the car if she wanted. ]
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Date: 2024-11-17 02:15 am (UTC)If you want to help, I won't say no. Though, we may have to go grocery shopping. [She admitted, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over her.
The car came to a stop and she had to stop herself from nudging Diego again. The driver was irritated and so was Diego, but she wasn't going to say anything. She unclipped her seatbelt and started to scoot over. Rey took Diego's hand and got out of the car.
The café was buzzing. There were people outside on a patio, enjoying their food and chatting away. A pretty popular place for a good meal and lively atmosphere.]
What was that back there? [Rey asked, moving to Diego's slide, her hand still in his.] There wasn't a need to get mad at the driver, I'm the one who made a mistake.
[They walked through the doors of the cafe up to the hostess stand. The petite blonde woman gave a huge grin and asked if it would be just the two of them. Rey confirmed the it was just the two of them. The question of being inside or outside was thrown, along with if they wanted to sit at a table or booth. Rey looked over at Diego for him to decide.]
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Date: 2024-11-17 03:25 am (UTC)[ Yet maybe the guy had a daughter or even a sister that made him concerned with Rey's situation. Diego understood the sentiment yet couldn't shake the feeling of being judged by the driver more than an honest interest in her safety. However, they were greeted by a bubbly blonde who was quick to seat them in the cafe. ]
A quiet spot inside. Doesn't matter if it's a table or booth.
[ Diego didn't want anymore interruptions. The day would be full of confessions and real talk. If she invited him to her place, it would be tempting to kiss her again. He dreamt about the moment almost every night. It would be easy to get carried away but he didn't want desire to distract whether or not they would really work romantically.
Jenny, the hostess, grabbed menus and napkin wrapped silverware before leading them to a table tucked away near a window--asking the two if they liked the location. ]
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From:we can switch to prose, if that helps!
From:I'm good now! Finally back on a laptop. :)
From::)
From:<3 these two dorks
From:^_^
From:Not me...about to create a playlist for them
From:can't wait to hear! ...if this week ever ends
From:/hugs/ hopefully it'll end on a positive note
From:onto dinner!
From:Re: onto dinner!
From:Re: onto dinner!
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From:yes. yes they are ^_^
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