talentedscavenger | Closed to bargain

[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.]

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From:

talentedscavenger

[Time flew by quickly for Rey. One moment she was replying to a Tinder profile, the next she was meeting Diego in person and communicating with him on the phone or in a text message. So far, it seemed like their baggage went well together. They were able to understand different aspects of one another's past, and were taking baby steps towards an official date.

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.]

From:

bargain_batman

Now I kind of regret not making this dinner.

[ 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. ]

$talentedscavenger: (Modern\\Shy grin)$

From:

talentedscavenger

[Rey let out a soft chuckle, bowing her head a little at Diego's words. Normally, she didn't like wearing her hair down, feeling it would get into her eyes and go everywhere. It was one of the reasons why she kept her hair tied back at work, or whenever she was out and about. Rose taught her how to add a few products in her hair to make it more manageable. She looked a bit more presentable, and well...Diego certainly enjoyed it too.]

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.]

From:

bargain_batman

[ They were getting close to a month but everything still felt so new to Diego. He tried not to think about how long it had been since he'd made any attempt at dating. It had been the reason Klaus had set him up on the dating app. In the end, it was a blessing in disguise. He also wasn't the only sibling who Klaus tried to throw in the dating pool but Number Two didn't think about that in the moment.

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. ]

From:

talentedscavenger

Ahh, one of those places I'd have to wear a fancy dress and heels? [Rey inquired, unsure if she had anything that could fit the bill. While she made good money, she didn't really spend it on herself. She was frugal when it came to her apartment, groceries and clothing.

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?

Edited Date: 2024-11-15 10:45 am (UTC)

From:

bargain_batman

Mmm. Heels. [ He repeated in a low voice that held a slight growl in approval. Diego chuckled softly immediately after.

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?

From:

talentedscavenger

[A pleasant shiver ran down Rey's spine hearing Diego's low voice. The slight growl made her heart flip, bringing her back to their first kiss. The temptation to keep going, and hear more of that voice. A faint blush rose on her cheeks as Rey tried to stay calm.]

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.]

Edited Date: 2024-11-16 01:16 pm (UTC)

From:

bargain_batman

[ Diego tensed at the driver's commentary. On the one hand, it wasn't often that people in New York meddled in someone else's affairs. It was nice that someone voiced concern on behalf of a stranger. Yet Number Two felt judged by the statement. If he was clean cut and white, would the guy have made the same question? Rey had spoke up and put an end to the concern, helping ease Diego's tension. ]

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.

From:

talentedscavenger

[Rey wanted to believe there was good in people and believed the driver was looking out for her best interest. At least they spoke up, but at the same time…they shouldn’t have had to. She assigned the blame to herself for not being aware of her surroundings.

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. ]

Edited (Grammar and words are hard) Date: 2024-11-17 01:21 am (UTC)

From:

bargain_batman

[ His hand that held hers gave Rey an affectionate squeeze. It was an effort to comfort her as she seemed concerned with how to dress for the dinner date. Fortunately, he hadn't called the favor in and she didn't need to worry about going out. He was more than happy to come over to her place. ]

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. ]

From:

talentedscavenger

[Well, Rey managed to avoid one potential hazard and walked straight into another one. Instead of worrying about how she'd look for dinner, she had to remember what she had in her fridge and if it would be enough to make a nice meal and not something a starving college student would instantly inhale.]

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.]

From:

bargain_batman

You? What mistake did you make? He's the one sticking his nose where it didn't belong.

[ 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. ]

From:

talentedscavenger

I asked where we going. I was flustered and not thinking clearly. [This felt familiar—calming a cute guy with a short temper. Rey squeezed Diego’s hand again.] You tend to have that effect on me.

[It was hard to concentrate at times when they talked. Multi-tasking seemed impossible as all of Rey’s focus was on him. To say she was smitten would be an understatement.]

I’m okay. You’re okay. We probably won’t have the same driver on the way back. [She hoped her words would help release the tension bubbling in Diego.

She followed behind the hostess, staring the location was fine and sat down. Jenny placed the menus and wrapped silverware in front of them. ]

Mike will be your server. You two cuties enjoy!

[Was it possible to get diabetes from someone’s voice? The sweet saccharine voice was a bit grating, but Rey couldn’t hold it against Jenny. If that was her natural voice…god help her.

Rey’s eyes looked down at the menu for a moment. The mood between them was shifting and she was starting to get concerned. ]

Are you alright? [She asked, her brown eyes searching Diego’s. Had the car ride really upset him that much? ]

Edited Date: 2024-11-17 03:38 am (UTC)

From:

bargain_batman

[ Jenny looked ready to break out in cartwheels and pom poms, Mike looked like the physical representation of a typical hipster. As long as they gave Diego and Rey great customer service without interrupting their date longer than necessary, Number Two enjoyed all their time together, unknowingly about to ruin the planned lunch. ]

Yeah. Why?

[ He stopped looking at the menu and kept his eyes locked on Rey. Had his scanning their surroundings in the cafe bothered her? Was it still about the Uber driver? Or did he do something else that had gone over his head? His head cantered to a side while waiting for her response when Mike appeared with a tray that held 2 glasses and a pitcher of water. ]

Can I interest you in some filtered water? We also have sparkling and lemons. The lunch special is fish and chips. The fish is a haddock and the fries are from scratch.

[ Diego panned to Mike then looked back at Rey. ]

Can you give us a minute?

Edited (html fail) Date: 2024-11-17 04:50 am (UTC)

From:

talentedscavenger

Because--

[Rey didn't have time to finish her sentence as Mike came by with a tray that held 2 glasses and a pitcher of water. He was going over the specials and Diego seemed quick to cut the poor server off.]

Mm, we'd like a few minutes, please.

[Another small smile on her face, looking up at Mike to silently apologize for Diego's attitude. Mike didn't seem phased by it, opting to put down the water glasses.]

Alright, well, I'll come back with some bread and butter while you two decide.

[Mike took the opportunity to check on another table, leaving Diego and Rey alone with one another. Her gaze fell back to the menu for a moment, trying to gather her thoughts. She was attuned to when people's moods shifted--picking up on the subtle cues from differences in tonal pitch, and body language. A wonderful side effect from living through trauma.

Was she over reacting? Over thinking? No, she could tell there was something wrong.

Maybe he was looking around the room for an exit. Probably ready to ditch you, or he saw another ex and wants to speak to them. Why was her mind her own worst enemy at times? No, she would not listen to those insecurities. Things would be okay.]

You just seem on edge. [Not angry, or upset. Rey wasn't about to ask him to calm down (as that never works and only seems to have the opposite effect), but she needed to know what was bothering him. The last thing she wanted was for him to snap at the server--they had a tough enough job as is.]

If this is too much... [She gestured around them, the café filled with people talking loudly and children crying or letting out shrieks of laughter.] We could head somewhere else. I don't mind. [If there was something heavy on his mind then being in a loud and lively place might not be a great idea.

Hopefully her concern for him wouldn't be misconstrued as she wanted to leave.]

From:

bargain_batman

[ Mike headed off with Diego watching him for a moment before turning to Rey who was already looking at him. Number Two held a furrowed brow; one of confusion, not anger. He exhaled and let his cheeks fill with air as if he were attempting to decompress. Rey was kind and trying to accommodate him whereas his ex would've read him the riot act for being rude. He didn't want to compare things to his failed relationship but ultimately it scored well for his new love interest.

His shoulders fell as he responded to what she said. ]

I just wanted to be able to talk without people listening or interrupting. It seemed like the driver thought I wasn't good for you and... We don't have to talk. This is fine.

[ Diego relented and looked to his menu. He was ruining what he considered to be their first real date. It wasn't as if there was something pressing that they needed to talk about. A part of him didn't want to rush dating while another was stuck thinking about the kiss in the park. His dry spell seemed to be influencing his thought process which was why it had been a good idea to continue meeting and spending time in public spaces.

It felt that in the moment, Rey might have been staring at him in an effort to process his behavior which made Diego want to keep his eyes on the menu longer. And then, out of the corner of his eye, he caught sight of a busboy losing control of a serving tray that held stacks of glasses and plates--all careening to fall on the squealing toddler in a highchair. The busboy likely had slipped on something the baby had dropped on the floor.

Diego immediately spread his hands out in the direction of the falling items and appeared to direct them away from the unsuspecting baby, toward an empty section of the floor. Just as fast, Number Two brought his hands back to the table in an effort to limit anyone from realizing that he just controlled the falling objects. The busboy was profusely apologizing and the toddler cried from the sudden scare but being tucked away in the cafe, only Rey had a front row at what Diego did.

Great. If anyone was going to leave, it likely would be her after what she witnessed. His chin was close to his chest while he slowly peered up to see what his date might look like. Maybe she thought he was going to help and the trajectory of falling items happened to move over a couple of feet on their own? It was wishful thinking. ]

From:

talentedscavenger

[Diego took a breath, trying to decompress. A very good sign, which soon felt like a step back when he told her they didn’t have to talk about it. She let out a sigh, gaze drifting down to the menu. Her appetite starting to flee.

Heaven help her but she couldn’t leave well enough alone. She looked back up at her partner. ]

It’s going to be awkward if we don’t talk…but okay. And I don’t care what the driver thought of us. I’m here with you.

[That’s all that should matter, right? That she wanted to be here with him in this moment and didn’t care what others thought.

Holding back her tongue, she started to scan the area, wanting to people watch when everything suddenly changed. A weird sequence of events that could’ve ended badly and—

Did Diego make those plates and glasses move?!

Everyone was fine, the busboy was apologizing and cleaning things up. Rey needed to process what she just saw but Diego was right, she got up from the table…

And went to try and help the busboy. Rey wasn’t trying to get away from him, but more concerned for what just happened. Goes to show she was one to run towards helping others than turning the other cheek.

Rey was mindful of the broken glass and sharp edges of plates. She was there for a few seconds until Jenny came by with a broom and dustpan to sweep up the broken pieces.

Heart pounding, Rey moved back to her table with Diego and sat across from him. She started to wipe her hands on the napkin. A bit flustered but not…freaked out?]

…so…super hero training. That…was real?

Edited (HTML on phone is an evil thing ) Date: 2024-11-17 10:33 pm (UTC)

From:

bargain_batman

[ It wasn't a good sign that she left the table. Diego assumed the worst, feeling that Rey needed to distance herself from him. She'd misunderstood what he previously said; he didn't mean that they wouldn't talk at all, just not talk about the serious subjects that were on his mind. The confusion was a glaring example of his inability to effectively communicate when his emotions were involved. He could talk about books, movies, music and current events but when it came down to his feelings... it was the one thing that would bring back his stutter.

He straightened up in his seat and readied himself for when Rey returned. Her question didn't surprise him yet Diego didn't answer right away. Mike made a reappearance with bread. He gave Rey a wide grin. ]

Thanks for helping with that. We've told him not to use those server trays. I don't think he'll do that again. Are you ready to order?

[ Diego looked to Rey, biting down any response to anyone at the moment. He felt anything he said would be wrong so instead, he'd follow her lead. If she ordered, he'd follow suit. If she needed more time, he'd wait. His hands unconsciously toyed with the bundled silverware left on the table. ]

From:

talentedscavenger

[Rey was hoping Diego might say something, anything, but Mike suddenly appeared again. She couldn't fault the server for doing his job, but the timing was bad.]

Ahh, a few more minutes? And a new napkin and moist towelette, if you have those?

[Rey asked, to which Mike nodded his head. He walked away from the table back to the kitchen and came out with what Rey had asked for. He set both items down in front of her.]

Thanks, just, five more minutes and we should have an idea of what we need.

Cool, I can do that. If you need me to go over the specials again, I can--

[Rey quickly shook her head, offering another polite smile and waited for Mike to leave. She tore into the small package to take out the wipe to clean her hands.]

When you said training, I thought you meant martial arts, or archery. Didn't think you meant like actual super hero things. [She murmured, unsure if Diego wanted to say anything.

He probably should say something before Rey rambled on.]

From:

bargain_batman

It was martial arts. And archery. Fencing. Fighting with a staff. Boxing. Throwing knives...

[ Diego was sure he was forgetting something but wasn't up for a trip down memory lane but Rey deserved to know who she was exclusively dating. Slowly, he sunk into his seat as his eyes fell to the wrapped set of utensils. ]

At noon on October 1st, 1989... there were 43 kids born to mothers who hadn't started the day being pregnant. My father adopted 7 of us within a week of our mothers giving birth. I don't know. how he knew we'd have abilities but he did. Yet we all were given the same training. For the most part. Klaus can see and talk to the dead. He didn't do much fighting. Viktor... our father isolated him. But none of us went to school. We were privately instructed by our father and trained.

[ A sad look overtook his features as he finally looked at Rey. Five had disappeared. Ben had died. The siblings might have only reunited for weddings and funerals but that was before surviving the end of the world. Diego didn't get along easily with his siblings but he wouldn't abandon them. ]

Allison got married and had Claire. She didn't come out like any of us. She's... normal.

[ Maybe it would mean something to Rey that she didn't have to worry about possibly having an abnormal kid with him. ...Not that he was thinking of having kids. That was a future he didn't dare to dream about. He'd be happy just having someone. ]

I don't know if this is something I should've said on day one. I... wanted to tell you. I didn't know how.

From:

talentedscavenger

[Rey said nothing as Diego explained himself. She took note of how his body language changed as he revealed more of his past. Unable to look at her, making himself smaller to take up less space. Her heart ached hearing how he and his siblings were raised. Was his father just...creating an army of his own? For what purpose? There were more questions, but she chose not to ask. Clearly, it was painful for Diego to talk about his past.

Did she dare explain what she had to endure? No, now wasn't the time. He was being honest with her and she needed to give him as much time and grace as he needed. ]

Thank you for telling me. [Rey began, reaching out across the table for his hand. If he didn’t reach out to her, that was okay. She wouldn't fault him for it. ]

It's a lot to take in, and I'll need time to process it. [Which wasn’t a bad thing. She wasn’t outright saying she was leaving, only time to let everything sink in. Still, she needed to reassure him more.]

Diego… [Rey murmured, her brown eyes searching for his.] If you're thinking I'm walking away, I'm not.

[His background certainly explained why he scanned rooms or wanted specific seats in restaurants. He was used to watching his back and walking into danger. She wasn't going to get upset or angry over a past he couldn't control--he had been a baby when he was adopted. Rey wasn't going to hold that against him.

But...would he hold certain things about her past against her? There were things she wasn't too proud of and kept under wraps, but he deserved to know too. Later, when they got over this small hurdle, she could tell him.]

I want to see where this goes, Diego. However long it lasts...I want to enjoy this time together, with you.

[A bit sappy? Probably. There was sincerity in her words and she hoped he wouldn’t pull away.]

Edited Date: 2024-11-18 07:11 pm (UTC)

From:

bargain_batman

[ His hands stopped playing with the wrapped set of utensils and sandwiched her offered hand between them. It was a comforting gesture but Diego wasn't sure if it was a sign of support or goodbye. As Rey continued to talk, it didn't sound like the latter. His hands were loose over hers if she wanted to slip hers out from between them.

Emotions ran high under the surface, the way they often did when he thought back to his childhood. Diego gave a silent nod in acknowledgement at Rey's conclusion. He was torn between believing she was only delaying the inevitable and that maybe they had a chance at working out. All his cards needed to be on the table for her to make an informed decision. ]

I'd like that. But there's something else that you should know about me...

[ Number Two unconsciously squeezed his hands together. His eyes dropped to look at her hand between his then looked up. ]

...I patrol the streets at night. I help people when cops don't. Or can't. It's the one thing I could do with what I was taught.

[ He wouldn't call himself a vigilante or a hero. There was no glamorizing what he did, not in his eyes. It was a responsibility. A duty. One that cost him his last realationship. ]

From:

talentedscavenger

[Rey let out a slow, controlled breath when she felt both of his hands come over hers. Her fingertips brushing against his, sliding along his digits until hers filled the spaces between his. She waited patiently for him to continue, sensing how much tension and anxiety he had underneath that calm façade.

Hopefully Mike would pick up on the serious conversation between the two of them and wouldn't intrude. If he did, Rey would be the first to ask for more time.

When Diego continued on, laying all of his cards on the table, Rey didn't pull back. She squeezed his hand in return, her eyes never leaving his. Her eyes softened as understanding and concern graced her features. He was a vigilante then? Someone who took justice into his own hands--Trying to make the world a better place without the red tape, her mind chimed in. He was putting himself in harm's way, and while he was more than capable of taking care of himself (his fighting match proved as much), it didn't mean the concern she had for him lessened.

After several seconds of silence, Rey was the first to break eye contact, looking down at their joined hands then back up at Diego.]

If you're looking to me to ask you to stop what you're doing, I won't. [Rey began, keeping her voice low and soft.] Your choices are your own, and I won't stand in the way of them. If you need to get patched up, I'm pretty handy with a first-aid kit. [Among other things, but she didn't need to tell him all of that. Not yet.]

I do think you can do more than acting as agent outside of law enforcement, but that's a decision you need to make. [Rey wasn't going to get upset and demand he change his habits. They were together but not officially a couple? Not boyfriend and girlfriend or partners. They were still trying to figure out what it was between them, and she had no right to dictate how his life should go.

She squeezed his hand again, bringing up her other hand to wrap around one of his.]

I just ask, if you get hurt, please don't hide it from me. If you need to make a phone call to pick you up from the hospital or anywhere, I'm here. [If he needed someone in his corner aside from his siblings, he had her.]

From:

bargain_batman

[ It was the nicest thing anyone had said to him, out of everyone he dated. Granted, he wasn't innocent in some of his failed relationships. He had met Eudora in the premise of becoming a cop. Diego had wanted to help people but became disenchanted with the police academy when learning about all the paperwork involved. All the red tape didn't help people.

Yet he carried enormous guilt over Patch finally doing things his way since it cost her life. So there was an ache when Rey not only said she wouldn't ask him to stop, but she'd help him. However, the offer was only to render him aid if he was hurt. Diego gave her an awkward grin. ]

I don't do hospitals. I hate needles. So I might take you up on that.

[ She might find his admission funny given the tattoo on his wrist and nipple piercing. Or maybe it made sense that he only had one of each. Granted, he didn't have the piercing when shirtless for the fight but the way things were going, she'd eventually see it.

His hands held hers affectionately, rubbing his thumbs over them. ]

But I'll call you as soon as I can if anything serious happens. You don't have to worry. I've been doing this for almost half my life. Since I left home at seventeen. The organized fights are just practice. And a way to make a few bucks.

[ He offered a sheepish grin again, having confessed to a source of income being the matches he took part in. Yet it was also true when he'd told her about working security. Viktor had gotten him and Luther jobs as bouncers but the work was just a couple of nights a week. ]

Speaking of, we probably should get lunch before it runs into dinner.

From:

talentedscavenger

I don't blame you...hospitals are never fun. [Sadness touched her eyes recalling the number of nights she spent by Ben's bedside the days leading up to his passing.]

I have my phone on me at all times, and I'm a light sleeper, so I shouldn't miss any texts or calls.

[It was easier to offer to patch Diego up if he needed it. Easier to explain away how she was good with stitches and bandaging wounds compared to some of the skeletons in her closet. Later, she told herself, later she would be honest with Diego and share some of the dark spots in her life.

Hopefully, it wouldn't change his opinion of her.]

Ahh, and here I was thinking you wanted to show off. [Rey teased in return, squeezing his hands again before pulling away. She pushed the basket of rolls in his direction.]

Not a bad idea, but I don't know what I should get. [If she got fish and chips would that be a bit too cliched for the woman from the UK? Plus it was super oily too and could stain her clothes. Her eyes scanned the menu again, ultimately landing on a chicken Cesar salad.

You could eat more, you know. It's okay. Ben's voice drifted through her mind, forcing her to push the menu away from her.

Growing up with limited resources meant there were plenty of nights where she went to bed hungry. Many days when she went to school or work with very little in her stomach. Trying to unlearn some of those bad habits was something she'd have to deal with for the rest of her life. She was doing better at least. She wasn't eating just enough to keep her going, but enough to feel full and satisfied....but if she over ate, her body would greatly protest.]

I think I know what I want. We just need--

Hey guys, finding everything okay?

[Damn, Mike suddenly popped out of no where. Thankfully he hadn't interrupted their conversation earlier. Rey looked over to Diego, waiting for confirmation if he was good to order. ]

I think we're good?

[ooc: Handwave lunch and they head to her apartment?]