Closed to bargain_batman

[talentedscavenger]

[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.]

Comments

[talentedscavenger]

[Out of the corner of her eye, Rey spotted someone coming towards her. She was prepared to put on a fake smile and give off a classic, 'fuck off' vibe if someone was going to try and chat her up. Just because she was sitting alone didn't mean people could come up to strike up a conversation. Unless it was an employee, then they deserved as much empathy and kindness as she had. Being a barista was a hard job, not something to look down upon at all.

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.

[bargain_batman]

[ Her greeting made him chuckle as he settled in the seat. A part of him wanted to reposition to an angle where it'd be easier to scan his sector but that was his fault from watching in the distance. The smile she gave him made him lose some of the anxiety that he refused to acknowledge feeling. ]

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.

[talentedscavenger]

[Rey didn't hesitate to reach out to Diego's offered hand. Her hand slipping into his, giving it a good squeeze as one does with formal handshakes. The calluses weren't offer putting, and reminded her of the ones she had from years of working with cars and other scraps of metal. The gloves she wore didn't prevent all the calluses from forming. Now, what rough skin she had on her hands was minimal from going to the gym.

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.

[bargain_batman]

Actually, I might grab a water. Hold that thought.

[ 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. ]

[talentedscavenger]

Yeah, sure, take your time.

[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!]

[bargain_batman]

[ He could feel her eyes on him which from what Diego could remember, was a good sign. She showed up but it was ingrained in him to question if someone was actually interested in him ...of if they were up to no good. Rey was definitely good. He actually worried about her in the dating scene and the assholes out there who might try to take advantage of her. Yet now that they met, could he keep an eye on her without looking like he was stalking her?

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. ]

[talentedscavenger]

[It hadn't occurred to Rey that a "friend" could be an 'ex' who wanted to stay in her life in the hopes of restarting a relationship. She hadn't been lying about not being in a relationship before--it was all sort of complicated. If she thought about it too much, it would hurt her heart more than her head. She thought Diego was being genuine in his question.]

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.

[bargain_batman]

[ Rey had his undivided attention. His hands folded in front of him and he casually leaned forward over them as if she pulled him into the conversation. Initially, he didn't like the direction of the conversation. Her friend the pilot who co-owned the cat loved the skies as much as he loved movies... Diego could feel jealousy creeping up but he swallowed it down.

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.

[talentedscavenger]

[Seeing Diego lean towards her seemed to be a good sign. It meant he was listening and engaged. He wasn't having a conversation to merely reply, but trying to understand her and the background she had. A rather colorful, and sad background that left parts of her feeling broken and shattered. Time and poor coping skills helped to ease those wounds, but she was trying to unlearn a lot of those bad habits.

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.]

[bargain_batman]

Kind of. [ He answered when Rey asked if she was that easy to read. A smile had started to tug at his lips, growing from the smirk he’d held.

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. ]

[talentedscavenger]

[While Diego looked handsome with a smile on his face, a smirk seemed to suit him more. It didn't bother Rey to know she was easy to read. Ben always told her she needed to work on her poker face, and Diego was unknowingly reinforcing the idea.]

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.

[bargain_batman]

[ Instincts made him reach out and put his hand over hers when Rey had extended it over the table. The move was as much to find comfort as it was to provide it, still feeling the need to apologize for stepping into her life. It was amazing to find someone that didn’t think he was a prick or asshole. They’d just met but he didn’t stop feeling as if she deserved better.

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. ]

[talentedscavenger]

[ Warmth bloomed in Rey’s chest feeling Diego’s hand on top of hers. It wasn’t a spark or twinge of electricity when they first shook hands, but there was something between them. Something that made Rey want to reach out and take back his hand when he began to pull back.

Was love at first sight truly a thing? Or was it just luck that they managed to find someone who was just as touch starved as them?

But, ah, he wanted to meet up again.]

Meeting at a park would be nice. [ Rey was going to suggest they could do a run, but quickly shut that idea down. It wouldn’t be a good date if they ended up sweaty and a mess. And maybe Diego hated cardio. ]

Could bring bird seed and feed the pigeons. [A small joke, nothing that she was attached to.

Their next meet up could be a date or not a date. The ball was in her court, but that didn’t feel right? No, maybe she was getting a head of herself. ]

I would like it to be something both of us could enjoy…and I wouldn’t mind if it was a date. [Just putting it out there, and if he wanted to be friends then she would be okay with that.

Though, to do that she would have to do something else. Rey grabbed her phone and pulled up the contacts list and held it out for Diego to see her number.]

…and that’s my number, if you wanted to text or call outside of Tinder.

[bargain_batman]

Sure.

[ He agreed to feeding pigeons, not realizing it was a joke. It seemed that Rey was an animal lover which made sense given the feeling he had that she was inherently good. Diego wondered how she would feel about him never having had a pet. Their father wouldn't allow it and when Number Two left home, he could barely take care of himself much less a helpless animal.

His smile grew when she voiced not minding if it was a date. Then slowly grew crooked as she took out her phone and pulled up a phone number. Diego lifted a hand, awkwardly scratching at the back of his head. ]

I didn't bring my phone. I... didn't want anyone to interrupt us.

[ He shifted to a side, pulling out a small notepad and pen from a back pocket. ]

I can write it down, if that's okay. I'll call you as soon as I get back to the phone?

[ His cheeks were warm and probably held a tint of red to them. Not being a fan of technology was finally biting him on the ass. ]

I'm not good at using the phone. --It's new.

[ The whole concept of a cell phone was new but that was difficult to explain that he wasn't from this universe. His family had been responsible for the destruction of one and they found themselves 5 years in the future of a universe that had so much more in the way of technological advances, like mobile devices.

If anything, his biggest frustration with Klaus putting Tinder on his phone had more to do with Diego not fully comfortable navigating an iPhone than being contacted by strangers.

He also wasn't a fan of his siblings being able to track him by the device. It did seem like a handy feature if anyone was in trouble but no way would Diego want to chance that on the first date he'd had in a few years. Diego hoped Rey didn't find it strange that he didn't have the phone on him. ]

[talentedscavenger]

Oh. [Interesting. Maybe Diego was busier than Rey initially thought? People had their phones attached to them at all times--be it in their hand, or somewhere on their person. Rey was trying to do better at enjoying the present than through a phone screen, but easier said than done.]

Sure, I don't mind. [He could write down her phone number, though in hindsight she could've asked for his. At least he would call her later...or at least she hoped he would.] And if you need help with your phone, I could help you. [She worked in the tech industry and could do some troubleshooting if something wasn't working well, or if he needed help in understanding how to navigate his new device.]

I've messed around with mobile devices before. Easier to work on than cars. [She nearly bit her tongue then, slipping in a detail about herself that she wasn't too entirely proud of. Best to keep the conversation moving.]

But, um, yeah, give me a call or text when you have your phone. [Probably taking forever with updates and such. That was always the problem with new phones, so she couldn't exactly blame him for not bringing it along.

The coffee in her cup was now cold from their conversation, something she didn't mind in the least. Their meeting was going to come to an end soon. It wouldn't take long for Diego to write down her number and slip her phone back into her pocket. Was it wrong that Rey wanted their meet up to last longer? No, she shouldn't push her luck. She was already leaving a good impression with him (or so she hoped). Best to stop while she was ahead.]

I meant it though...I've had a really good time meeting you, Diego.

[bargain_batman]

[ His heart sank briefly at her initial reaction until she was agreeable to him writing her phone number down. Diego was glad she didn't ask for his as he didn't know it. Rey would be the first person that wasn't his siblings or the boxing club who would have his number, the latter receiving his number also courtesy of another sibling. His eyes picked up and smiled to match his lips when she offered assistance at working his phone. ]

I'd like that. I'm better with with moving parts.

[ He was better with cars than screens. Hopefully, she wouldn't think of him as an idiot. ]

I usually check it when it makes sounds and I see the numbers show up on an app. That's how I saw the Tinder message.

[ Notifications. Diego wasn't firm on the lingo yet but he did appreciate text messages over phone calls. He had his phone silenced most times, ever vigilant about being able to infiltrate any suspicious activity without detection. ]

If you didn't have to go, I'd actually walk you over and take you up on showing me how the phone works. [ He quickly straightened up to correct himself. ] Show me the ins and outs besides answering calls and texts.

[ He also thought they'd talk for longer then realized how creepy it was what he'd just told her. ]

I'll just bring it on the date.

[ Diego quickly picked up the glass of water and polished it off. ]

[talentedscavenger]

[No, Diego wasn't an idiot. He had yet to question Rey on her tech skills, or if she really knew what she was doing. Which sadly happened often in such a male dominated industry--both in the car and tech worlds.]

Yeah? [She was fighting back a blush, wishing she hadn't brought up the whole cars thing. It would've lead to more questions and more baggage to unpack.] Same, it's kind of fun to take things apart to see how they work and then try to put it all back together again.

[A bit harder with codes and computer programs, but it was all the same at the end of the day.]

Oh...do you live close by? [Not that it was creepy that he brought it up, but since they were talking about it, she could show him the ins and outs of his new phone. Though, she needed to be careful considering she barely knew him and going to his place on a first date was usually a bad idea. Rey didn't need to end up as a headline on the news...

But, she felt like she could take a chance with him? Maybe?]

I don't have anywhere else I need to go. I mean, later on I need to feed BB, but that's a few hours from now. [For fuck's sake, why did she always do this? Dance around a subject and hope the other person could just read her mind?]

If your place isn't too far of a walk, I wouldn't mind helping you. [An excuse to continue their conversation and hang out more. Maybe even find a way to have her hand brush against his. Touch starved didn't cover it--she wasn't starving as much as she was famished.]

Otherwise, I'd probably wander over to a bookstore and add more items on my 'to be read' list.

[bargain_batman]

[ It was one thing that Diego did give his adoptive father credit for; he was many things but not sexist. Women could be anything that men could be. The siblings didn't fight any differently when training, regardless of gender. So he wouldn't bat an eye over anything Rey said she was capable of doing.

But did he want her to see the dilapidated building where he resided with his siblings? Sure, it was a building in the city that they shared and not the boiler room of a boxing gym like he lived in before. He had his own space in the basement, for the most part when Klaus didn't let himself in. Diego wasn't sure how his siblings would react to a stranger showing up.

In the end, it was technically nothing that any of them really had a say in. He wasn't bringing Rey in yet, just bringing her by. ]

Just a few blocks from here. Not far.

[ A beat. ]

There's a park across the street if you wanna wait for me there while I get the phone.

[ Diego rose to his feet and extended a hand to Rey. If they were going to have a date, it couldn't be too forward to hold her hand as they walked. Would it? His hand wouldn't hold hers too firmly in case she chose to pull away when they walked. ]

[talentedscavenger]

Yeah, I wouldn’t mind waiting.

[It would give her the chance to tell Rose that the date was going well. Plus, update her location so if anything happened, Rose would know. Not that anything would happen…she hoped.

Rey got up to her feet, not expecting to see an offered hand. For a moment, she was stunned to see Diego offer her his hand that she didn't know what to do. The hesitation lasted for a split second, with Rey soon slipping her hand into his. A shiver ran down her spine, excited and nervous that their date was still ongoing.

And well, it was nice to hold his hand. When was the last time she’d done that?

Rey pushed in her chair and grabbed her coffee. A quick detour to the trashcan to toss out their cups and they headed out. All the while continuing to hold Diego's hand. She wasn’t going to pull away any time soon.

Funny, they had entered the café as strangers and now they were....something more than strangers? Something else for Rey to think about later in her one bedroom apartment. She followed Diego's lead towards the direction of his home.]

I live a few blocks in the other direction, it’s nice. The weather has hasn’t been too warm either..

[An attempt at (albeit awkward) small talk. ]

[bargain_batman]

[ His smile widened when she agreed and joined him. All the anxiety over ruining her life had started to quiet down, enjoying her company. He didn't allow himself to think of the worst as they walked. Diego made a mental note of the direction she resided in. It was a nicer part of town than where the Hargreeves were holed up in.

Yet they did team up to find a suitable place, assisting financially or physically in making the building habitable. It was the main reason Diego was broke. He'd need to take on a fighting match to fatten up his wallet after all the expenses he'd had between somewhere to live and a cell phone. ]

Really? I thought I heard on the radio that it's been warmer than usual for this time of year.

[ His eyes caught sight of his sister Allison in the distance but avoided locking eyes with her. It was too soon for Rey to meet his family. Number Two was sure that his sister wasn't ready to have a stranger insert herself in their lives. ]

Just a turn on Madison and you'll see the park. It'll just take me a second to get phone and meet you out in the ark.

[talentedscavenger]

[Rey bashfully ducked her head, tucking a strand of hair behind an ear with her other hand.]

Has it? I'm in an office and it always feels like it's freezing. The warm or warmer weather is incredible after spending hours in a refrigerator. [The brunette joked, hoping to smooth over her misstep. She could've sworn the weather had been cooler--just the perfect mix of warm and cool. Nice enough to go about the day with a sweater and not feel the need to take it off.

She didn't realize they were approaching one of Diego's siblings. He did say he was adopted, so anyone on the street could be a relative of his, but Rey didn't know. If he were to throw her into the deep end of meeting his family that would make her so nervous and awkward---more so than she was now. Besides, wouldn't it be too soon for that?]

Madison--oh, that street? [She looked over at the traffic light, noting the name and nodded.] Yeah, I can meet you at the park. I'll see if I can find a bench or table. [From the distance, she could see it was a wide open area with a few playground items (swings, a slide) and a path for walking around the entire place.

But, to go to the park she would have to let go of his hand. Rey hesitated for a split second, finding it difficult to let go, until she gently pulled her hand back.]

I'll see you soon. [Rey gave Diego a soft smile and walked ahead of him. She followed his directions, turning on Madison and went towards the park. It wouldn't take her too long to find a place to sit and update Rose on her date.

Hopefully Diego wouldn't take too long.]

wow, no more tired tags. My typos are haunting me

[bargain_batman]

[ What she said about the cold office made sense. Diego didn't think anything of it other than finding it cute when she ducked her head. He hadn't been out a lot during daylight hours other than picking up supplies for repairs on their shared apartments so he only went by what he'd heard on the radio.

It was tempting to give her cheek a kiss before parting but reconsidered, thinking a real kiss should come first. It wasn't the right moment or setting and the last thing he wanted his sister to possibly witness if it went wrong. Diego gave Rey a nod and smiled back as she headed to the park before stepping into a light jog to his place.

He reached the front door in time with Allison and opened it for her. ]

So what did the doctor say? You had that appointment today, right?

[ Allison ducked her head down at Diego's greeting, pulling out her cell phone and typing on it. ]

I don't have my phone. I'm getting it now.

[ She made an annoyed face and showed him her screen.

I'm healing well but need to give it at least one more week to make sure my vocal chords have the best chance to heal. What are you dressed up for?

Diego read the screen and had a defiant look. ]

I'm meeting someone. That's why I need to get my phone. I didn't even realize you had that appointment today. I thought Vanya was going with you to that.

[ Allison immediately started typing on her phone again and held the screen for Diego.

Viktor!

Diego gave a single nod. ]

So he's serious about that then? Viktor.

[ Diego repeated the name to remember it. He gave Allison a squeeze on her shoulder. ]

I wasn't sure if it was just because of what happened. As long as he's happy. But hey, I need to get my phone and run. Text me if you need anything.

[ He headed to the stairwell that went down as his sister gave him a wary look, curious as to what Diego was up to and not saying. However, she wasn't curious enough to keep pressing the issue and headed up to her apartment.

Number Two managed to miss running into anymore siblings, quickly grabbing the device he'd left on the table in his place and locking the door on his way out before another trot to the park. The warmer weather he'd been talking to Rey about was causing him a light sheen of sweat as he had stepped into a light run while dressed all in black. ]

Hey.

[ He greeted at seeing her on the park bench. It was a nice, mostly quiet area for the city park. The fountain and playground were further in. Only the occasional person walking or jogging by would pose any distraction. Diego didn't worry about any siblings dropping in as everyone were still busy with settling in their apartments and the city. And Luther went for his runs early in the day.

Diego slid into the space next to Rey, handing over his phone to her. ]

Got it off the charger so it should be ready to work on.

I feel that. I should get more sleep, but haha what is that?

[talentedscavenger]

[The concrete bench wasn't the most comfortable thing to sit on, but it was better than nothing. Rey took out her phone, a smile creeping on her face as she read some of Roses' text messages.]

No SOS? Alright, Rey, you got this!

30 minutes in and silence? Wow, proud of you! Unless you're dead, please don't be dead.

[Rey started to send an update, explaining how she was at a park and sent her location to Rose. She explained things were going well, even emphasized it with a smile emoji. Her phone flashed to see her friend calling her, but quickly hung up.]

Sorry! Butt dialed--BUT OMG! I'll need deets, a complete play by play, and a picture. Tinder pictures don't mean crap.

[Rey was about to send another text when she heard someone approaching her. The smile on her face widened, looking up to see Diego sliding next to her.]

A full battery? Great. Though, you might need an internet connection for some of the updates--but we can cross that bridge when we get there. [Rey asked to see Diego's phone, just to show him the basics of where things were and what settings he'd want.

She was patient in explaining things to him, as not everyone was tech savy. Hell, some of her managers still had trouble figuring out how to send something to printer 1 and not printer 2 at work. She made sure to pause and ask if he had any questions before moving onto the next task.

In the midst of explaining how his iPhone worked, Rey scooted closer to the point where her thigh touched his. Every now and then she found her gaze lingering on his face and then lips. Too soon for a kiss? Probably. Focus, she told herself, ending the last bit of explanation with putting her phone number in his contacts list.]

Now, you can text me or call whenever you'd like. [Smooth, Rey. Real smooth. Poe might be a bit proud of you for that.]

I hear you do a lot of that when dead so it can obviously wait. xD

[bargain_batman]

[ He didn't think of anything at finding Rey on her phone. Diego noticed that seemed to be a trait for most in this world. A part of him found it easy to see when someone wasn't up to any good, seeing them observe others for an easy mark. It made his job easier to help others.

Rey was easier to follow than the videos Klaus and Van--Viktor tried to get him to watch. Number Two was convinced that Apple should've stuck to produce in the beginning but his date made things simple without making him feel stupid in the process. She set up his Face ID which had been fun after changing his pass code so Klaus wouldn't get into his phone again.

That was particularly important now if he was in a relationship. Was dating a relationship? It was the start of one, Diego thought. He kept a glance at her features when she spoke and had to quickly remind himself to focus so she didn't have to repeat herself. She didn't seem to judge that he couldn't remember his email address set up for the Apple ID on the phone but not for the email account on his phone.

She had gone through all the preliminary steps that most people do when first getting a phone that he must have skipped. Diego had slipped an arm around her on the bench so he could sit close to watch the screen, shielding her from any cold breezes that might pass by as sunset was approaching. The street lights still hadn't switched on as she concluded he could call or text her whenever he liked so maybe he hadn't kept her out too late. ]

You might regret that. [ He chuckled in response and took the iPhone back, slipping it into a pocket which caused Diego to inadvertently lean more into Rey. His eyes quickly glanced at her then back to his pocket as he returned to a comfortable distance on the bench.

An older woman walked a small yorkie who wore a matching vest to the coat her owner wore. Diego could swear she was smiling at him and Rey from a distance. ]

Incoming. [ Diego whispered to Rey as the woman and her dog grew closer. ]

You two are adorable. You should kiss her already! Even with my cataracts, I can see you two thinking about it as I walked Trixie by you earlier--all huddled over the phone. Even at my old age, I knew what you were having her show you about the iPhone--you're not fooling anyone, young man. Thank you for giving an old lady something to smile about!

[ She didn't introduce herself or wait for either to comment on what she said as she continued on the path in front of the bench. Diego felt his cheeks grow warm and was unable to stop smiling at the teasing. For a second, he thought the woman was going to stand there until they kissed. He was glad that wasn't the case. Their first kiss didn't need to have any spectators. ]

She's not wrong. I should at least take you to dinner or a movie first.

[ His mouth said one thing but his eyes looked to hers with another sentiment. ]

Clearly it should wait! Or I should be paid for sleep...I'll take the later.

[talentedscavenger]

[At some point they would have to talk Tinder--if either of them should keep their profiles up or take them down. This was just a first date and there were so many unknowns. If they were a good fit for one another, or if this was all just...something to pass the time. Ben told her to move on, and she was trying! Getting on Tinder was the first step, and going out with someone from the platform was another. She was making some leaps and bounds--so she should slow down, right? Not fly too close to the sun?]

I doubt that. [Rey told him, holding back a chuckle. She was on the verge of leaning closer--but Diego pulled away. She barely had the chance to process what he said when he created space between them that she was ready to look around to see what the issue was.

Oh. Oh. An old woman with a yorkie who had to comment on the two. Rey felt her cheeks warm up from the compliments the other was giving them. Was it that obvious they were into one another? Two people who had experienced loss, heart break, and struggled with self worth. She ended up looking at the ground, wishing she could make herself invisible for a split second.

Diego was quickly learning how much Rey disliked having the spot light on her. He seemed to be enjoying it though. Rey didn't look up until she heard the old woman and her dog walk away. She peaked up from her lashes to see Diego grinning like no other, whereas Rey was flustered and blushing like no tomorrow.]

I don't know about that. [She muttered, trying to gain back some of the confidence she had earlier and shake off her embarrassment.] There's no formal rule about when to kiss someone. As long as both parties want it and it's not under duress. Or, in exchange for something else...

[Rey was rambling again, a clear sign she was nervous but a pause and a deep breath helped to steady her nerves. He could kiss her--fuck, she wanted him to kiss her and she didn't know how to tell him that without sounding like an ass. Poe would probably lean in to steal a kiss, or Rose would say something coy and flirty.

Rey? All she could do was look down at Diego's lips again and then back up into his soulful brown eyes.]

You should probably kiss me before I ramble about something else.