Kept Going Back And Forth On If I Should Reply - Blog Posts
the message behind rafael’s words only deepens kennedy's amusement. it’s such a stark contrast to everything she’s ever known. she’s used to plotting, to blending grit and determination with a little bit of elbow grease to get what she wants. the simple idea that sometimes all she had to do was ask? that feels almost foreign to her— even for something as inconsequential as having rafael buy her a drink. “careful— give me too much power and i can't promise i won't let it go to my head” she replies, a hint of mischief finding its way in their eyes as they tap a cautionary finger on his chest. when rafael leans in, kennedy does too, smiling at his critique. “you’re only saying that to make me feel better!” they holler over his shoulder, allowing themselves to be pulled in by rafael's familiar and ever so careful lead.
the bar is not nearly as loud as the dance floor but it’s still lively enough to warrant them staying close. any more yelling as kennedy fears they won't be able to use their voice tomorrow. “wait— that is the cutest thing ever!" fondness flickers in her expression at the mention of rafael's parents. "i’ll have to hold you to that dance another time, then. preferably when we’re less likely to get elbowed in the face. oh— i'll just have a tequila sunrise or something." they should probably follow rafaels lead and stick to nursing a beer for the night but they have never been a fan of them. prefers their flavored cocktails. their index finger hooks onto the strap of his wings, careful not to snap the elastic as she fixes it over his shoulder. “nice costume, by the way. … icarus? no — wait, don’t tell me.” their eyes narrow as they try to place it. “the guy from saltburn?” the one that people swear looks like kieran but kennedy thinks it's just the height.
"all you need to do is ask and i'll obey, kennedy. i'm only semi - oblivious." he's always been a compliant person; the spotter, the watcher, the willing. won't put himself into a risky position, but won't let his friends walk into danger alone, either. almost too eager to accompany them; like it's his duty. rafael's smile only widens as kennedy laughs, his gaze drifting upwards as purple and orange hues wash over them. "and between the two of us -," leans in, eyes falling onto her again, "- i don't think half the people in here know how to dance - to anything. but -" his hand finds her wrist, gentle as he guides her away from the floor and towards the bar. always delicate - always cautious. "- your wish is my command. personally - i'd love to waltz across the room with you. i know a thing or two, y'know - my parents were big on that stuff. probably didn't want me to embarrass them at my first school dance."
