Fantasy V.A.G.E. ( A 1x1 VillainxHero Rp)

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

Wolf only had enough time to turn his head before Liliana was on him. The surprise on his face was shadowed by the hood and his temporary mask. She grabbed his shirt and tossed him against the wall letting out a small “oof” as his back hit the wall. He felt her forearm press against his neck, and he instinctively reached up to push it off him, even just an inch so he could breathe. He locked eyes with her, if looks could kill he was sure she was doing it nice and slow making sure he felt every ounce of pain she could inflect. She began to rant and rave, telling him the risk she was taking to him, how she’s been wanting to strangle him, how if something were to happen no one in her life would know where she was. Wolf was taken aback, he had never seen her like this before, she always seemed to calm and collective. Yes, a little cocky at times but it never got to her head that she would make mistakes that could cost her, “You expect me to feel sorry for you?” Wolf suddenly says as he pushes back against her. He got in her face as he continued, “The world isn’t going to bend at your will just because you want something! Who the hell do you think you are? Just because you have powers you think everything is just going to fall in your lap. Let me tell you something Love, the world is a cruel place that will eat you up and spit you out. If you don’t keep that in mind you are just going to be another chalk outline in the streets!” It was as if Declan’s life flashed before his eyes as the words left his mouth. Everyone he cared about, the tragedy he accidentally survived, everything that led him to this moment flashed through his mind as the two sworn enemies stood in silence.

That’s when Wolf saw an opening. He quickly shoved Liliana away before a chain wrapped around her waist and pulled her away with such velocity it forced her through one of the walls of the room kicking up dirt and drywall dust into the air clouding his vision for a moment. Normally he would be cautious when he couldn’t lay eyes on the agent, especially when she was angry, however, he didn’t hear her move and was surprised to see her on the ground still when he walked through the hole. He knew she had a high pain tolerance so simply throwing her through the wall wasn’t enough to keep her on the ground like that. Which probably meant she was mentally defeated. If this was a month ago, he would reveal in this form of victory taunting her relentlessly and maybe tossing her around with his chains. However, he didn’t feel like doing that as a ping of guilt sat on his heart, so this is what you do to the women you “love”? he shook his head as he steps closer into the room, “is this what you look like when you don’t get your way, agent?” He says before he crosses his arms, “pitiful, like a spoiled child who didn’t get the toy they wanted.” he half turned towards the hole he created but kept his eyes on her, “I expected more from you, much more.” With those words said he turned around once again and walked off this time keeping his ears open and his ability at the ready just in case, she tried to attack him again and was disappointed when she didn’t.

He stepped out into the cool air, jumped to the top of one of the buildings and walked his way towards the building where he stored his clothes and bike. He felt the guilt rise up once again as the image of Liliana laying on the floor appeared in his mind. Did he go too far? Push her too far? He did have these feelings for her and yet he still taunted her, toyed with her. Should he separate himself from her? This job got a lot harder since the kiss last week. These feelings, he hasn’t felt like this since falling for…He heard a faint rumbling that cut through his thoughts. It didn’t take him long to figure out what it was and where it was coming from. He pulled out his phone from his pants and opened the screen, the brightness flash banging his eyes after getting used to the darkness. He read the text several times and each time he stopped himself from text back. Should he text her back? He just left her on the floor in the building and now he’s going to go there and play hero? Pretty pathitic of you, Declan he shook his head as his fingers tapped on the buttons of his phone, this is a bad idea, you’re missing the plot he was about to push send when she suddenly sent him the address where she was at. He recognized the address as it was the same place he just left her don’t do it, Declan. You’re just getting too involved, do your job and move on Declan quickly typed ‘I’m on my way’ before quickly getting changed into his normal outfit you’re seriously missing the plot Declan…

Declan made sure to take the long way to get to Lily. Getting to her too fast could cause her to become suspicious, although the streets where empty with how late it was so getting there too fast would still be realistic, right? He turned the corner and slowly drove down the road looking left and right trying to find her before he saw a lone figure standing near an alleyway, her gaze on the ground and then at him when she heard the engine of his bike getting closer. He stopped in front of her and jumped off his bike. He barely took off his helmet when Liliana suddenly rushed him and hugged him tightly. He was caught off guard before he slowly wrapped his arms around her and held tightly, making sure he didn’t accidently hit her with his helmet since she didn’t give him time to put it down god you’re such an asshole, Declan He felt her tremble a little and he rubbed her back to try and calm her down, “Are you ok, Lily?” Wow, you really are an asshole he suddenly heard soft sobs and felt her balling up the fabric of shirt under her fist as if she was trying to keep herself from cry, “Lily,” he says softly before he buries his head in her shoulder and just holds her. He didn’t have the words to comfort her. How could he? He was the one who caused this wasn’t he? And now here he was trying to play the part of caring boyfriend…or friend, “I’m here, Lily, I’m here.” He says as he rubs her back, “I got you.”

Once she got herself under control Declan led her back to his bike and waited until she got on before he handed her his helmet. Surprisingly, she didn’t fight him and just put it on as he got on his bike. She knew the routine; she wrapped her arms around his midsection and tapped him giving him the signal she was ready. Declan nodded and gave her hand a squeeze, it didn’t mean anything, but he felt he had to do it. The drive was nothing worth writing home about, he did take the freeway as usual, cruising through the empty freeway and missing two of the exits before taking the third which would add ten minutes to the drive, but he was sure she didn’t mind, she liked riding his bike after. Declan slowed to a stop as they reached the parking lot of her apartment building. He kicked down the stand and turned off his bike before tapping her hand to signal it was safe for her to get off. She didn’t react, in fact, she didn’t even move. Even when Declan turned his head to look at her she stayed in her position, “we’re here Lily.” He calls to her, his hand tapping her hand again but this time running his thumb along the top of her hand, along her knuckles. He saw her shoulders rise and fall before he got off and took off her helmet. She handed him his Helmit, “thanks.” He says but found himself grabbing her hand instead of his helmet it was holding. The non couple locked eyes for a moment, “Lily, what happened?” he asked a ping of guilt as he already knew the answer so he decided to change the question a little, “this week has been weird.” He chuckled trying to insert some humor, but it fell flat.

 

[Britt-21]

MangoGoGo

“Is this what you look like when you don’t get your way, Agent?” His words echoed in her mind just as if the world was nothing but an empty room. "Pitiful, like a spoiled child who didn’t get the toy they wanted.” He wasn't wrong. V.A.G.E. Had her as their golden child, one of the best agents they had and put her so high on a pedestal that now it finally hit her that she wasn't as high and mighty as she once thought. Villains didn't play by the rules, they weren't going to work with her even if it meant it would help them in the long run. “I expected more from you, much more.” Wolf slammed the nail in the coffin so hard that she was sure that the wood had split in the process. Even a Villain expected more from her than a seemingly spoiled child. "He's right..." The words came softly from her mouth as she felt like she could kick herself in the ass. Never before did she have an issue like this... But maybe her lens that she had been using was only one way and was only black and white... Maybe there was more to it than what meets the eye. Wrapping her arms around herself, she waited outside the alley with her hood down and her cloak covering her body Perhaps I need to refresh myself... Reflect... Look at everything that's changed around me... Nothing was the same as it used to be, she had Tiffany to worry about, Declan to... Well... Figure out. She wanted him, she really did. But yet she was keeping him at arms length and only bringing him in when it was convenient for her. That wasn't right.

Blue hues lowered to the ground, sometimes lifting to make sure nothing caught her off guard. The only time she did notice something different was the sound of an engine filling the air. When she had looked, she knew instantly that it was Declan. Who always dropped everything for her, would always be by her side like he said he would. James was cruel. Really, really, cruel. The man that she was falling in love with stopped in front of her and got off his bike before following that up with removing the helmet. The agent did not spare a second the moment his helmet had been removed. She had thrown herself into his arms and held him tightly as if he was going to float away from her as all the emotions finally crushed her and her body trembled here and there. He really did show... I know he told me he was on his way I just... I'm so stupid... It didn't take long for her eyes to blur up before tears began to race down her face and soft sobs escaped her lips. It seemed like she was starting to realize that maybe she was more fucked up than she had thought. Maybe she did need to reflect a hell of a lot harder than before. Fingers grasped the fabric underneath her hands as she could feel Declan's head being buried into her with his soft voice. He was seriously her kryptonite. "Declan..." Even as his name went past her lips, she had only grasped tighter and cried even more.

It took a hot minute to control herself, pull everything back into its box that it spilled from and shut it tight for now. It was almost as if Declan knew that she was ready as he slowly pulled from her and guided her to his bike. One of the favorite things in her life was riding with him while he rode at dangerous speeds. He handed her his helmet and as much as she hated when he did this, he did it for her safety. It was kind of him every time she didn't have her own at one point. But she didn't hate it any less. They mounted the bike, followed the usual, and were off. The ride was as good as it always was, making her feel free with the wind brushing her skin and her hair flowing through it. But this time, it didn't feel as exhilarating as it had before. Though it did give her time to think a little bit before they stopped. When she looked, they were already home... That was too fast... So fast that she wasn't ready to leave Declan's side even after he parked. His touch was soft, trying to give comfort to her before he got up and helped her pull the helmet off and when she held it out, he grabbed her hand instead and she moved said-helmet onto the seat in front of her. Butterflies fluttered in her core while their gazes locked Even when driving without his helmet to get that messy look, he still looks handsome. The agent thought before he asked her what happened and then tried to make light of the situation.

Declan tried, she would definitely give him that. He even got a small smile out of her as her hand had squeezed his a little "I... Mmm..." It was almost as if there was a cotton ball in her throat, making it hard for her to admit she forced a meeting with Wolf. Before he could speak, Lily pulled up her other hand to stop him and let out a gentle sigh and forced herself to spill the beans "I... I tracked down an accomplice of Wolf... He gave me the address that I gave you because I demanded he meet up with me." Eyes dropped down a little bit towards the ground "We met up... He took precautions of course but I wasn't going there to fight. He's the whole reason why I started to... Look into the incident. The Island." Looking back to him, she drew in a breath and paused for a moment before releasing it "I tried to get some answers since everything at V.A.G.E. is red taped. Im as high of a level as can be for my role and it still isn't enough." Reaching for his other hand, she grasped that one too "I didn't... I'm sorry I didn't tell you...I should've... I've been planning this for a full week and it was all for nothing. I just needed something. Needed anything to get by it. Just information from the source alone." Lifting her eyes to lock with his golden ones, her expression was soft and remourseful.

James had done so much between going behind his back, shoving him away, leading him on... It was selfish and she was very ignorant. Spoiled. That's what she was. As much as she hated the word, it didn't make it any less truthful. Stepping closer to him she pressed her gentle lips upon his cheek because lets face it, he came out here for her and it was late at night. He didn't have to and on top of it all... He deserved it. Actually he deserved far more after what she's pulled. "I'm spoiled rotten, Declan. I don't ask for help, I expect answers when I demand them and throw a tantrum when I don't get them... He was right." Lilliana's forehead rested against his shoulder as she used it as an advantage to hide her face "I'm like a child all over again. When I thought I had it all figured out... I didn't." It had been so easy to talk to him, open up to him. When she got too comfortable she got scared and closed up like a clam. "He didn't need to beat me up with his fists, his words were sharper than a knife if I'm honest. Probably thought he'd never win like that before." Pulling her hands from the comfort of his warm ones, she pulled away slightly and cupped his face in her hands while her blue eyes looked over his features. "I'm not the woman everyone thinks I am. This badass, this flawless being who always brings justice..." This night was really starting to get to her. This is why she drank wine at night, to just calm down. To think. To process.

"Enough about that..." Thumbs brushed against his cheeks softly as the continued "I've also hurt you. I've avoided you for a full week after the night at my apartment." A dusting of a blush came up to her lips "And... I shouldn't have. I loved everything in that moment. The way you held me, the way you kissed my skin...The way you kissed me." Lily's face got even redder as she almost seemed to hide it by looking away "I'm really sorry." Everything spilled like a child spilling their drink. It just went and that was it. Those hands of hers went to slip down to his chest, feeling his heart thump against her palm. Maybe she should head inside, let him go home and sleep. Who knows how long he's been up for at this rate and they had work in the morning. Luckily Jeannie had off as she was currently watching Tiffany back in the apartment. "I wouldn't...Expect you to still want me after that...After all this..." Wow she really was acting like a teenager. What the hell happened?
​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21
​

Declan listened as Liliana spoke, retelling the events of what happened hours ago between her and Wolf, events he had already known because of his secret identity as said Wolf. He knew after their discussion he left her beaten and broken in the abandoned building, calling her a spoiled brat and disappointing. He felt guilty when he left her behind in that building but now the guilt was eating him alive seeing her now, As Declan, her Not Boyfriend. She looked into his eyes when she said she should of spoken with him about her plan, "yes, you should have." he suddenly says, "Lily, what you did was dangerous, what if something were to happen to you? Tiff would of been sad and I...I...don't know what I would of done..." god, the guilt was eating him alive. Pretending he was some concerned boyfriend after he himself was the one who threw out the insults that was currently breaking her. He knew when he started this he was going to have to play both sides but he wasn’t expecting this, he wasn’t expecting her.

She closed the gap between them and kissed his cheek before she continued, he placed his hands on her waist and kept her close. She agreed with him that she was spoiled, things had gone her way for so long that this plan of hers going sideways broke that confidence that he admired both as Declan and as Wolf. However, what surprised him was when she brought him up. She brought up how she had hurt him by avoiding him and admitted she loved the kiss they shared a week ago and apologizing before finally finishing off by saying she wouldn't be surprised if he didn't want her. Before she could finish her words, he pulled her into a kiss. No shoulder teases, biting that 'spot' he found that day. He just wanted to kiss her lips and allow the smell of strawberry intoxicate him just like that did that night of their first kiss. The kiss wasn't passionate, it wasn't meant to be, it was his way of saying no matter what happened or how stupid she felt he still wanted her, regardless.

Declan broke the kiss and rests his forehead against hers, "you talk too much, Lily." Declan says jokingly and smiles at her as he places his hand on her cheek and brushed her lips with his thumbs, "No matter what decision you made, dumb or otherwise, it doesn't make me want you less. Yes, you should have told me where you were going if not for my sake, then for Tiff's. You are her sister and if something where to happen to you she'll have to move back with her oh so great parents and I wouldn't be able to stop it...or..." he stopped himself and shook his head, "never mind, it's getting late, Lily, and I'm sure Jeannie and Tiff are waiting for you." as much as he didn't want to end this night he knew it was probably best for her to get some sleep and hopefully get someone her spunk back after beating her down with words.

However, before he could take a single step towards the building she stopped him telling him she wanted to be with him some more. They couldn’t just stay outside, “well…” he started as he rubbed the back of his head, “ok, we can…uh…we can go to my place then.” He says looking at Liliana waiting for her to respond to see what she wanted to do if she didn’t want to go to his apartment, “or see if the café is open? I doubt it’s open…maybe a late night diner…oh wait…” he checked his pockets and sighs “fuck, I forgot my wallet…um…we can do…” he trailed off as he tried to think of what they could do this late at night instead of going to his apartment since it made it seem like he was trying to do…something in her vulnerable state.

 

[Britt-21]

The Agent's eyes had widened as his lips crashed into hers to stop her from talking any more than she had. The way he had embraced her and the way he guided their kiss had given so much comfort and felt like it could wash away all her worries within milliseconds. Those same blue eyes closed as she returned the kiss, wanting to just get lost in this moment and forget everything that happened before he came to get her. However, the good things had to come to an end and the warmth of his forehead against hers continued its assault of comfort upon her. Declan's words hit her just as hard as Wolfs' had. What if something did happen? Tiff would have to be sent back and... While she was unsure what he was going for next, she could assume she knew what he may have said next You wouldn't know what to do without me? The words never left her lips, but she had hoped that maybe this thought was correct. That's when her partner went to walk towards the building and her hand had shot out, grasping his hand tightly with a somewhat worried expression as her heart picked up in pace. "I... No... I'm not ready to go back..." Dammit she had made him come out here and even the short time they spent from the drive wasn't enough for her.

Was James being greedy again? Absolutely. No doubt that this was her being selfish. "Can we spend a little more time together...?" I feel like such a damn child... Such a childish request. "I've done enough damage and all I could think about is just staying with you." It felt like her heart was about to burst out of her chest, it was so loud she could barely even hear. That was till he suggested going back to his place and of course she was perfectly fine with that. After all, he'd been to hers twice so far. What would be the difference going to his? He then panicked and began to search for his wallet as he mentioned the cafe and trying so hard to find something else to do. This moment reminded her of the first day they met where he was so clumsy with the papers, dropping them everywhere and trying to be professional. Lily's lips tugged into a closed smile before she started to laugh and her full smile came into view. When he had asked what she was laughing about, she easily responded "Nothing, nothing. Just... You reminded me of the first day we met. That's all." James continued to giggle as she brought her hand to her lips "We can go to your apartment. That's fine." Anything to prevent him from getting a heart attack.

"Though, this time I don't want the helmet on." That's when it happened: The pair was going back and forth about wearing the darn helmet but Lilliana was being stubborn about it. "Declan, please. I don't want to wear it. Let me just feel the wind at its full glory. No one is out and you drive just fine. We'll be safe." Why was it she was continuously beginning to feel like a child the more she asked and begged him for things? This was the last thing that she would want to do. But then again, Declan has really been taking away many of her firsts. It shouldn't be a surprise at this rate. "Just this once? Please." She said, giving him one of her unintentional puppy eyed look before he caved and put the helmet on his own head. There was a sense of joy, a sense of pride in winning against him. Even if she had cheated a little bit. Now I get to feel entirely free this time. I get to know how it feels to ride without a helmet. Letting him get onto his bike first with his helmet, she got on the back and immediately fell into their same routine of safety checks before he drove off with the motorcycle revving in the air. That's when her eyes began to slowly widen, the wind being far louder than before but yet felt so good upon her skin. The night sky making the air cool and the only thing lighting the area was some lights and eventually just nothing but darkness on the highway as soon as they got there.

Lily knew that the rule was to keep her arms around Declan, but she couldn't help but want to continue pushing herself to feel this win. After all, she was sure he'd never let her have it again. While one arm remained, the other went out to her side, feeling the wind through her fingers and blowing her sleeves absolutely everywhere. So this is what it felt like? Despite the chill biting her skin, she loved how it felt and wished that she could use both hands to throw out to the sides. This is amazing. This...This is why I didn't want it to end... Not tonight. I just hope he feels the same. Eventually the agent did find her way back up against him, her arms wrapped around him and keeping her in place as that smile seemed to be plastered on her face of content. Soon their ride came to an end and he had parked next to a building that looked similar to hers but not exact. It was clear it wasn't just some brick building with some shabby apartments. It actually looked quite nice. He was a transfer after all. As soon as he gave the all clear, she got off the bike and tried to fix her hair a little bit before deciding to just let it all fall out of the partial bun she always kept it in. Then once Declan was ready, she grabbed his hand and walked with him in the lead straight to his apartment "So this is where the famous Declan lives."

While she had been teasing him, it would be her first time at his place. Usually they were at the cafe, her place, or just the agency but now... She was going into the den of Declan himself. A home said a lot about someone, so she wondered what would be found within. As he guided them up to his floor and to his apartment, he put the keys into the door and unlocked it. While he allowed her to walk in first, she was careful and slowly she removed her shoes and put them to the side. This was shortly followed by her removing her cloak and revealing the black and silver-colored outfit. In all honesty, she seemed almost like an assassin with how it looked on her. Carefully, she folded it up in her hands and looked over her shoulder and up at Declan. "Nice place."

MangoGoGo ​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

While Declan rambled on, he caught the very faint sound of laughter coming from her stopping his rambling. He glanced at her and blinked, “What’s so funny?” he asked before rubbing the back of his head as she explained he reminded her of the first day they met. As much as he would of loved to claim he was getting into character to drop her guard him dropping his bag, knocking over a pencil holder, and struggling to keep his papers from spilling out of his hands wasn’t an act, “Not the smoothest introduction was it.” He says with a chuckle. She told him she was ok to go to his apartment and he nods, “alright,” he says as he steps over to his motorcycle and climbs on before handing her the helmet. He blinked for a moment she denied the helmet, “come on, Lily, you have to be safe.” She denied it once, “Lily, wear the helmet.” The two non-couple went back and forth for a moment before she grabbed his hand and spoke softly. Of course, Declan gave up and sighed, “alright.” He tells her, “But you better hold on tight!” he said trying to sound stern before he sighed “god damn puppy eyes.” He says.

As he placed the helmet on his head he waited until he felt her arms around him and gave him a pat to signal that she was ready. Normally he would start out smoothly, but this time Declan peeled out and took off fast hitting the road and not slowing down. He knew Liliana enjoyed their bike rides together and he will admit he got slightly nervous when he felt one of her arms leave his midsection. However, he didn’t make a stink about it. He could feel the joy from her as the wind blows against them, the road, scenery, and lights pole flies by them in a dark blur. The only time he slowed down was when he got closer to his apartment building and stopped. He waited until Liliana got off first before he joined her and took off his helmet and put it in his backpack. Once he was ready Liliana grabbed his hand, such a natural thing that he didn’t react instead he linked their fingers and pulled her to the building, “the only famous thing about me is our first interaction.” He joked before pulling her close to him and wrapping his arm around her shoulders.

Not surprisingly, the lot was empty of people, giving the two not couple their privacy as Declan, with his arm around her shoulder, has not moved his arm from her shoulder. The only time he removed his arm was when they finally reached his door, He opened the door with his keys and opened the door before moving to the side to let her inside first. He waited until she took off her shoes and took more steps further in before he followed her inside, doing the same and walking in, “Atlas accommodation the first month of rent,” he says with a chuckle, “So I got the most expensive apartment I could find since it’s not on my dime.” He placed his hand on her lower back as he led her to his couch and offered her a seat and asks, “you want anything to drink? Water? Soda? Juice?” as he walked towards the kitchen giving Liliana a chance to check out his living conditions.

His apartment is a spacious, modern loft. Its sleek, contemporary design and a sophisticated, somewhat industrial aesthetic. The space is large with high ceilings, exposed beams, and large windows that provide a view of the cityscape. There seemed to be stairs going to the second floor with guard rails around the edge but she couldn’t see where the stairs led. Declan came back with Liliana’s choice of drink before offering it to her and sitting down by her side. He took a drink of his drink before setting it down on a cup coaster. He looked at the beautiful women sitting beside him and just looked at her reaching out his hand and brushing her hair out of her face before running his thumb along her cheek, “are you ok?” he asks, “I guess I should of asked you this sooner but, you’re not hurt or anything are you?”

 

[Britt-21]

MangoGoGo

Lily looked over the apartment, taking in the simple but yet sophisticated design of it all. While everything was open, she could gather the bathroom was probably snuggled in somewhere and the bedroom... Actually was it perhaps up the stairs? Her blue eyes lifted up to the loft and tilted her head slightly Would a bed really just be there in the open? The agent thought before his voice chimed in along with the warmth of his hand that pressed gently against her lower back to guide her straight to the couch. "Water is fine, thank you." She replied while taking a seat and slowly sinking into the furniture. While she didn't expect his apartment to look like this, it still was pretty to look at. Especially when it was different compared to her own style. Perhaps she should get a place with something similar design... It felt...Unique but cozy all at the same time. But surely it would remind her of Declan every single day had she done something like that. So perhaps it wasn't the best idea. Those blue hues continued to look around, almost as if she was trying to familiarize herself with the room. There was comfort, but alongside that was also safety. As if nothing could possibly go wrong in this moment.

Hands reached out gently as Declan presented her drink and took a seat beside her. Quietly she took a gentle sip of the water he had given her and suddenly she tensed up when a hand brushed her cheek. Immediately her body had relaxed and her gaze rested upon her partner with a gentle smile "You're so kind, Declan..." Lily said softly before moving for a moment to place her own glass down on a coaster and returned to his hand that she gladly leaned into "I'm okay. We're durable people. Getting kicked through walls is kind of our thing." She joked lightly as a sigh left her lips "The only thing hurt is my pride and ego but I'll live. " He cares so much. He shows it all and yet I push him away... The thought unintentionally hurt her, but it was true. Why can't I be like you, Declan? Just openly care for someone like you do? Slowly her eyes opened back up and gazed at him so softly that she was sure that she may have looked saddened. "I was selfish to think I could try to make a deal with the Devil. As I've said before, I was there because he knew information I couldn't get into. Everything is blocked even with my status and..." What the fuck was her status at this point?

Everything she once knew was starting to crumble before her as her viewpoint had been shattered to nothing. It was time to pick up the pieces and remove those that didn't match any longer. "He's the one who tipped me off from the way beginning. So I thought going to the source would be easier but...Obviously it wasn't." Lifting her hand, she gently placed it on top of his, holding it to her cheek. "I'm going to have to go to someone else who can get me the information. I'm not a hacker where I could just hack the system to uncover some secrets. But this time...I want you to come with me instead of me going alone. We're partners." Even though deep down she knew that they were more than just that. She was scared of that feeling but it was also addicting any time she was near Declan. The moment they shared that night when she thought he was gone, the moment in the office... He pierced through everything. Now here he was, touching her so gently. Caring for her not as a father figure like Carter, or best friend like Jeannie... But more than that. Never would she let someone touch her like this before, but now? That was nothing. "I'm not going to do it this week...Probably next week where Jeannie could watch Tiff again, but I do want to get to the bottom of this. There are things that went under the radar and-" Her eyes lowered because she realized that she was being selfish again. It was all about what she wanted wasnt it? "Nevermind..." Normally this would be that time where she would take care of it herself.

But after just telling him they can do it together because they're partners... She couldn't just drag him by the neck and expect him to jump on every choice she made. Even when it came to Tiff, he jumped with her. But she wanted it to be what he wanted. Not what she wanted. "I'm sorry... If..." James sighed and avoided his gaze, glancing at the large windows of the apartment out towards the city. "If you don't want to do that, I understand. I'll find a different way if you don't want to come with me. I shouldn't be dragging you around like this. You're human too. You have your own choices." Was she really that bad of a person? What happened to the Lily who held an iron fist? Cared for her team but yet always tried to lead them to victory. Was she just delusional? Probably. Maybe. Wolf in the end more than likely helped her without even knowing it. Ruining what she thought was perfectly black and white when there was gray mixed within that needed to be fixed. To be looked into. To see the shit that she missed right underneath her nose. I feel like such a child. Is this because my childhood was nothing but what I made it to be? No boyfriends, only Jeannie, focused on my work and my teacher-crush for a short time... Did everything I miss just catch up to me now? How immature. That's how she felt. She was an older woman but yet acted like a child fresh out in the world. Disappointed in herself, she could feel her heart tugging towards the one person that gave her comfort. And he was right here.

Turning back to him, she scooted closer and hugged him the best she could from her position, but yet said nothing as she could feel his arms slowly moving around her. Declan gave her what she had been missing: A Partner. Someone who she could open up to. Someone who wasnt a best friend who knew everything about her. While at first she was unsure of a partner being at her hip... It made things so much better for them. It was almost like they taught eachother different things without even realizing that. "Declan," Lily's voice came out almost like a whisper "thank you for staying my partner even through everything we've done so far." And I hope to continue being your partner for the future. She silently added as her heart thudded against her chest while feeling achey at the same time. She was missing compassion, empathy, and appreciation... And he was helping her learn that once again.​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

Declan smiled softly as Lily's words washed over him, his hand still gently cradling her cheek. He could feel the tension in her body ease with his touch, and he cherished these moments where their connection felt palpable. Declan had always admired Lily's strength and determination, but he also knew that her walls were built high, protecting her from the vulnerability she feared. Yet, here she was, letting him in, piece by piece. He took a deep breath, his fingers tracing gentle patterns on her cheek before he spoke. "Lily, you're not dragging me anywhere I don't want to go. We're in this together, remember? Whatever you need to do, wherever you need to go, I'll be there by your side. We're partners, and that means we face everything together." Declan's words were laced with sincerity and determination. He wanted Lily to understand that she wasn't alone, that she didn't have to bear the weight of the world on her shoulders. He knew how hard it was for her to ask for help, to rely on someone else, and he wanted to be that person she could trust implicitly.

You’re really something, “Declan” beating her down, insulting her, and completely shredding her confidence and now look at you, wooing her with your words when she comes to you for comfort.

That was the issue when portraying two different people, one side was his true self, and the other was the fake. However, it’s been harder and harder to tell which was which now as he found himself actually caring for the women sitting beside him. It wasn’t because she was hot or because she seemed easy to manipulate, there was something about her that snuck in and began to make him care for her more than he should.

Love? You? No way, you already lost one love why would you fall again? The only thing that matters is the mission, weather she could be used as a pawn or something to keep your bed warm is up to you, but you are not in love “Declan”.

The problem with having two personalities was you forget which voice was yours. Where these his thoughts? Or someone else’s? the voice of an angry man who wanted to watch the world burn? Or was it his guilt trying to prevent him from reliving the possibility of losing another? Which ever it was all he could do was look at the women who bravely let down her guard to show him her true self. His hand gently brushed against her cheek before brushing his thumb on her lips. The two non-couple stayed looking at each other for a moment before Declan moved closer to her, wrapping his arm around her shoulder and pulled her closer to him, her head resting on his shoulder.

“Wherever you go, I’ll follow.” Declan says after Liliana told him she wanted to take him along next time, “we don’t need another late-night phone call or a surprise babysitter for Tiff.” Declan joked giving her a slight squeeze jokingly. He heard her thank him, and it took him aback. She thanked him for being her partner after everything and he couldn’t help but smile, “it’s nothing.” He says before placing a hand under her chin and lift her head to look at him, “in all honesty, I don’t see myself going anywhere any time soon…” they locked eyes for a moment as he found himself brushing her lips with this thumb, or at all is what he wanted to say but didn’t as his lips met Liliana’s.

The kiss started like any other romance movie between the two protagonists, however, when Declan attempted to break the kiss, he found himself entranced and this time deepened the kiss. Declan’s arm stayed around Liliana’s shoulder and kept her close while his other fell from her chin and to her thigh. It was like being back at her office where one “wrong” move and this could turn to something much more intimate and Liliana didn’t seem to mind, following his steps and even moved to sit on his lip and deepening the kiss. It would have been easy to take this to the next level to use her urge to get closer to him, but he stopped himself. He couldn’t, not when she was in this state all because of him. It was difficult but he broke the kiss and kept her close, his forehead against hers, “it’s..uh..it’s getting late.” He finally spoke, “if you want, I can sleep on the couch and you can take my bed.” The two went back and forth for a moment before she finally convinced him to go with her. He got up and offered her his hand before leading her towards his bedroom, her hand still in his.

They walked up the steps and she found herself in another small hallway with a door at the end. When they walked in the bedroom and he watched as Liliana explored a little, “pretty basic huh.” He says with a nervous chuckle. Why was he so nervous though? It wasn’t like he never had a female in his room before. While they got ready to sleep Declan was having internal confliction, Normally he slept in just his boxers but now that Liliana was here he wasn’t sure if that was a good idea, It should be fine if he just slept in his pj and shirtless right? They both had their own night ritual and before they knew it, it was time for them to go to bed. Declan sat at the other end of the bed and laid down as the light turned off. For a moment they didn’t say anything, maybe it was setting in that they were sharing a bed. As Declan was stuck in his thoughts he didn’t notice Liliana was inching her way backward towards him and before he knew it her back was pressed against his front. Declan blinked and was about to speak up when he felt her grab his hand and wrap it around her waist. At first Declan didn’t move or speak. It wasn’t until she seemed to settle into her sleeping position that Declan let out a ‘hm’ and laid his head down, settling into his own position and kissed Lilian’s shoulder, “Good night, Lily.” He says as he squeezes her hand and pushes her body closer into his.

 

[Britt-21]

MangoGoGo

Declan's attention was so addicting she was sure that she'd die without it. The way he traced patterns upon her face, brushed his fingers on her lips and gave her the exact words that she needed to hear to feel better. It's like he knew exactly what to say, when to say it. Always he gave her reassurance on their partnership and she was always afraid that there were limits to what they could do as partners. Gazing at his face, her heart fluttered seeing that smile upon his lips after her thanks. Is this what mother felt like when she met father? The Agent wondered, feeling his fingers cupping her chin with his soft touch. While he leaned closer, she could feel her heart start to race, a gentle blush running across her lips as those blue hues closed and met him halfway. Every time she found herself in his grasp with her lips locked onto his, the world faded away and left just the two of them alone in it. Declan had dug himself so deep that there was no way she could get rid of him even if she tried. All it took was one week to realize that it hurt more to pull away than to give into him. He's done nothing but give her beautiful memories that -aside from Jeannie- were the best memories she could ask for.

The sparks were starting like a live wire, she could feel it in her core as his hand pressed against her thigh. All it took was a simple move to set it all off. Her body craved that, wanted everything to just collapse before her very eyes and give into the temptation that was pushing her so greatly. James moved into his lap, her head tilting slightly as their kiss got even deeper and at this point both of her hands were cupping his face, fingers gently brushing against the skin beneath them. Eventually she felt his lips pulling away from hers and as much as she wanted more, she knew better than to keep going. Though it was starting to seem like that Declan had more control than herself, which was pretty funny considering who practically raised her to have more control. Lily's forehead rested against his, keeping her eyes closed while she listened to his voice. While she hated the idea of kicking him out of his own bed, she was fine with having him with her. He didn't have to go through great lengths. Even if it was treading a dangerous line that they seemingly loved to do almost all the time at this point. "No, you can come to bed." She said softly while her hues opened back up.

The pair bounced the ball back and forth, it was becoming a pattern at this point as she was telling him he could use his bed still, while he was saying he was fine with the couch. She wouldn't admit it to his face (At least not yet) but she wanted him to hold her. To just fall asleep next to her and make her feel safe for the rest of the night. Protect her from anything else that could strip her down to the bone. Eventually she won this fight and it was another medal on her belt. There was evidence that while he was burrowing himself into her heart, James had been doing the same. Before she couldn't ever win something like this, not when they had first met. But now? They caved for eachother and gave the other what they wanted. Carefully removing herself from his lap, he got up and offered his hand out to which she reached out for and grasped his hand before getting up from the couch and following him to the bedroom. Blue orbs looking over everything as they walked. Declan had good taste, even if he didn't think so. He has style. It's modern, but rustic, but also has that city feel to it mixed in. His colors...He could use a little bit more. Maybe a blue? Perhaps gold? Lily thought to herself as she looked out the window on the other side towards the city.

Since she had been at Declan's place without not only a set of clothes to change into, but basically anything else you'd need for a sleepover. They had to compromise and while his shirts were just a bit bigger on her and exposed a shoulder, they fit enough and his pants surprisingly fit her. But that was because of the string keeping them up. He claimed that the shirt he was letting her borrow was just an old one he hadn't worn in a long time and simply had a coke logo on it. It was faded, but it was still clear what brand was on that shirt. His pants...Well...Those are ones he definitely had in the rotation of his clothes but if she didn't wear those, she'd be wearing shorts and she really didn't want to do that. Standing in the bathroom, she was making her her hair was clear of any other debris and pulled it out from the partial bun she kept it in. Showing the length of her own hair being quite long and that's why she kept it in a bun all the time. There were streaks of blue that at first would seem artificial, but if one were to look closer when her hair was down...It came directly from her roots. That was thanks to her mother and her quirk for that. Eventually she emerged from the bathroom and she got into his plush bed, crawling underneath the blankets and snuggling right into them as she could pick up the smell of cinnamon between the sheets.

Why the hell did he have such a good scent to him? The silence was strong and the only thing she could hear was her own heart pounding in her ears and just barely the breathing of Declan who was right there. Glancing over her shoulder to kind-of look at him, he seemed to be staring off into space. Would this be okay? Eyebrows furrowed as she slowly scooted over, not sure if she wanted to face him or face away from him. She opted for away because then he couldn't look at her face or feel how warm it was getting. Her back met his chest and she got a little too confident as her hand searched for his. This would all end tomorrow so why not make the best of it? Lily carefully pulled his arm around her waist and she once again snuggled into his blanket. It was quiet for a second before she heard a small sound come from Declan, making her face become hotter as she hid it despite him not being able to see. It was just a natural reaction at this point. His lips brushed her shoulder and her stomach had twisted in knots before he said his last words for the night "...Goodnight, Declan." Her voice was soft and eventually exhaustion hit her a lot faster than anticipated because as soon as her eyes closed she could feel herself delving into the darkness.

For some reason after what felt like forever, those blue hues opened back up slowly to be met with the darkness of the night. ...Shouldn't I be asleep? What time even is it..? It's still dark out... While she would've reached for her phone, she couldn't because she had still been trapped within Declan's grasp. Not that she minded that of course! I...I shouldn't be awake... Lifting a hand to rub her eyes gently, she took a deep breath and somewhat stretched before nestling back in her spot. There was something that tickled the back of her mind and she wondered how deep of a sleeper that he was. Biting her lip gently, she shifted in his grasp and naturally draped a leg over one of his while she listened for any signs of him stirring. Breathing remained the same, he only simply took a deep breath and turned his head away. A small smile tugged her lips while she took in his features, even in the dark he was still beautiful and the night sky itself made him look mysterious. I don't regret accepting you as a partner... You came in like a wrecking ball and I envy that about you. Every time they were together, it felt like they were an unstoppable force. He was quick, she was hot (literally), and they both packed a punch. They had eachothers backs and when they weren't together...It felt like there was this worry of "What if"s. The worst kind of worry. Reaching her hand out, she gently brushed a finger against his cheek and spoke softly enough that she hoped he wouldn't wake from it. "Out of all the people you could've been paired with... I'm glad it was me, Declan..." A soft smile tugged her lips and she snuggled right into his side and found herself easily slipping back to sleep beside him.​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

It took a moment for Declan to feel comfortable enough to sleep, He was very much aware of who he was spooning. Liliana fucking James, the top agent of V.A.G.E and his not girlfriend. His mind raced as he tried to figure out their relationship. Are they a thing? Not a thing? Was all this for fun? Probably not that last bit seeing as Liliana didn’t do stuff like this for fun. Yet, she was the one who wanted to share a bed and she was the one who initiated this position so maybe there was something to them being a thing. His eyes were closed but his mind was running at a million miles a minute. Until he felt a slight squeeze of his hand, almost like Liliana could sense his apprehension. That’s when he started to relax. Whatever the case she was here in his bed holding his hand over her and stayed close. He let out a soft breath and brushed his lips in her shoulder one last time before attempted to fall asleep, not because he wanted this night to end but because he wanted to see her in the morning. This was too good to be true and only seeing her in the morning would let him know he wasn’t dreaming.

Ever since that event Declan has been cursed with nothing but nightmares. The screams, the sound of incoherent voices on the radio trying to relay their situation, his breathing, and the sound of metal as his foot hit against the floor of the battleship. He knew where he had to go but the more he ran the more he saw his destination just move further and further away until his dream ended with his phone alarm waking him up. However, this dream was different. This time he stepped out of an elevator to a nearly empty office. Standing near one of the desks, her back turned towards him, was Liliana. He casually walked towards her, and she turned to face, that beautiful smile on her face the moment she laid eyes on him, “Morning Declan.” She spoke and Declan responded and judging by her smile he must have said something smooth. He raised his hand and placed it on her cheek, his face turning a slight tint of red before grabbing his hand and smiling, “Declan, we…we can’t be like this in the office…what would the others think?” Declan could feel his mouth move but couldn’t hear his voice and once again Liliana smiled, “I guess that’s true…but…aren’t you forgetting something?” Declan felt confused when suddenly the back wall suddenly fell and he was meet with a blinding light, screams of voices from a nearby radio, “something…important? Unforgivable?” Declan took a step back, his eyes locked on to the familiar blinding light, “the reason for the blood on your hands?” He heard Liliana talk before looking at her. Her cheek where he had placed his hand was now covered in blood. As the light got brighter and brighter Liliana’s appearance began to change until she looked like…

Beep Beep Beep

Declan’s eyes opened quickly as he let out a quick and surprised breath. He took a second to check his surroundings before he reached over to his nightstand and quickly hit…a button…stopping the annoying beeping sound. He let out a low sigh before looking at the woman in his arm. At some point their position changed. Now Declan was laying on his back while Liliana slept on his chest, one of her legs around his own under the sheets and his hand on her lower back. She stirred awake because of the alarm and Declan’s movement, and she smiled at him greeting him, “Morning.” He said back with a yawn trying to hide the fact he had a bad dream by placing his free hand on her cheek and brushed her lips with his thumb before he kissed her. It felt natural. Like this was something they did every day, or maybe that’s something he wanted. The kiss didn’t last long just a good old fashion good morning kiss, before she pulled away and looked at each other, “how’d you sleep?” He ran his fingers along her jaw line and cheek and drew circles with his other hand on her lower back. He was surprising comfortable with Liliana in his arms that he forgot about his phone until the second alarm went off, “ah, damn it.” he says as he reaches for his phone again and this time makes sure he turns it off. The second alarm was his ‘ok, this time I have to get up’ alarm. He groaned and looked over at Liliana, “as much as I would love to stay here, we do have to get to work.” He chuckled knowing full way Liliana shared his own thoughts about getting out of bed, but she eventually did, and Declan sat up. And stretched out his arms. The two got out of bed as Declan looked over at her, “Go ahead and take a shower first, I’ll cook up some breakfast,” Liliana and Declan met up at the foot of the bed before Declan placed his hands on her waist, “how do you want your eggs?” he says as he places his forehead against hers. She didn’t answer right away as they swayed side to side. Even though they had to leave for work soon it didn’t stop her from taking her time to answer and to be fair he was in no rush. When she finally answered he gave her a smile and says, “alright, I’ll have it done.” He leaned in for a kiss but stopped by placing a finger on her lips, “Go wash up, I’ll have breakfast ready when you come down.” He gave her a wink and walked out of his room and towards the kitchen giving her some privacy.

Declan couldn’t remember the last time he cooked food for someone else. He’s lived alone for so long that he almost forgot why he was cooking the extra eggs and Beacon and sausages for. Declan was lost in thought as the dream ran through his mind. This was the first time Liliana appeared in his dream but even so, the dream still ended the same, incoherent voices from the radio and a bright familiar light. Declan let out a sigh as he watched the eggs cook you are seriously missing the plot here he thought to himself I came here for revenge and now I have a women, a top agent, in my room, what the fuck he let out a breath before picking up the eggs and placing them on the other plate get her out of here, get started, Marc is still out there and… he heard the door open and he looked up and saw Liliana coming down to meet him in the kitchen and he smiles at her, “hey you.” He says as he slides a plate towards her as she takes a seat, “scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage, just like you wanted. He snapped his fingers as he quickly turned around to his fridge, “Oh! Almost forgot!” he pulls out two juices and puts them on the counter, “forgot to ask what kind of juice you wanted, you feeling orange or apple?”

 

[Britt-21]

After she had fallen asleep for the second time that evening, her position hadn't moved. There was something about Declan that gave her so much security and relief that the slumber felt like that perhaps she was like a brick. There was just this safe space that felt so undisturbed and she could sleep for ages and not have a problem in the world. While the woman was in her dreams, she heard a gasp but thought nothing of it before a sound of a constant beep was driving her crazy. That sound alone began to force her to stir and return to the waking world. While the agent's eyes fluttered open, her blue-eyed gaze met Declan's and she could feel a small smile tugging her lips "...Morning." she said in response, though her voice had been groggy and she was sure that he had never heard her this way. Lily's voice had always been clear and to the point, but yet at this moment she seemed to be so vulnerable and more...Human than V.A.G.E. Agent. Once again his touch had caused her to lean into it, and his lips had only sealed the deals that they had yet to make. "I slept very well actually. More than I ever had." She admitted while his hand ran along her face and the other pressed against her lower back. I could stay here for hours... It's so comfortable and warm and...It's just nice talking to you like this, Declan.

That damn phone went off again and he immediately turned it off before looking at her. "Maybe I should've chosen a day where we had a day off, hmm?" Peeling herself away from him, her back met the mattress and she began to stretch out her limbs in every way possible to shake off being in a bed for hours. A small noise even left her lips in the process before Lily finally got out of the bed and once again did another stretch. Why did it feel good to inhale so deeply and stretch in the morning? The world may never know. But it was one of the best feelings in the world. They then came back together at the foot of the bed, with his hands upon her waist that gave her butterflies. Instinctively her arms went around his neck and she began to sway with him as their foreheads met. These are the small moments she was beginning to treasure with him. The more they continued to happen, the more she got greedy. There was a want for more with him, but yet there was just one string keeping her back and she wondered if it was even possible to move forward with Declan. There was something there, she could tell. Even with her stupid actions, it was still here sparking every time they were alone and touched even in the slightest. I know one thing: He's something I want in my life and not just temporarily... Lilliana thought.

Eventually she did answer his question though, "You don't have to... But if you insist," The agent began "I like them scrambled please. Thank you." Offering him another one of her smiles, she noticed him coming closer but suddenly his finger was on her lips as he pushed her to take a shower. While she didn't have much to wear she'd just have to opt for what she had yesterday and change back at the agency. Giving him a gentle nod in response, Lily then went to take a shower and of course she had stood under the water for a little while as she thought about being in Declan's apartment, sleeping in the same bed as him, and even cuddling him so much that her leg was intertwined with his. Her pale cheeks turned red and her palms pressed against them "...This is so immature of me. I blush as if I'm in high school." While saying this out to no one but herself, the agent was convinced he wouldn't hear her, not unless he was at the door for whatever reason. The shower took a little while longer before stepping out and drying herself down. While she liked warm water, her body needed at least a chill to prevent her from accidentally overheating with her powers. It sounded tedious but it was relatively simple in all honesty. The agent put on her clothes, hung up her towl on a hook and then proceeded to leave the room by pulling the door open.

"Hey." She said in response with another one of her smiles as she took a seat. The plate was placed in front of her within seconds with Eggs, Bacon, and sausages on it. Even if he did take charge in making breakfast and giving her no choice in the matter, he delivered so graciously and it made her heart practically skip a beat. When he snapped, her eyes lifted up to him and he turned to the fridge "Orange Juice always goes best with breakfast." Lily pointed out while waiting patiently as he poured her the juice and brought it over. He's been nothing but good to me... Should I.... Maybe I shouldnt... Her thoughts continued to swirl, arguing back and forth within her mind as Declan finally took a seat with her and they began to eat together. It felt weird to her just eating with someone like this, first thing in the morning in the comfort of his own home. For as long as she could remember she'd eat countless breakfasts by herself and now she had Tiff who she fed like a princess and now was in Declan's home eating with him. It almost felt like whiplash. So many fast changes and she wasn't 100% sure if she was ready for whatever other mysteries that were about to be thrown at her. "Thank you, Declan. For everything you've done for me. I really do appreciate it." The agents gaze was soft as she finished the last bit of her breakfast and while they could probably spend all day together, they both knew they had to go to work. Jeannie really wasn't gonna be happy with the fact that she was left with Tiff the whole time...

~~~~

"Are you kidding me? Tiff was amazing with her Aunt Jeannie! Don't sweat it! I took her to school and made her a cute little lunch baggie." Said Jeannie with a wave of her hand "I did however, see you come in here with Deeecllaaann~ Did you call me over to babysit because you were having a little date with him?" Wiggling her eyebrows, she elbowed Lily who shook her head.

"I'm glad Tiff was good for you. Thank you for being so flexible too. I just had things to take care of last night." She brought her mug to her lips that held some tea as she did needed a bit more than just orange juice to keep her running.

"Like being with Declan?" Jeannie said with a grin. "What did you do? Where did you goooo? Come on I want all the details."

Raising her eyebrow slightly, she sideglanced her best friend and sipped her tea before speaking "We just had a sleep over. He found me last night when I was doing some extra work."

A gasp left the woman's lips before she lowered her voice "Did- Did you guys sleep together? Oh my gosh, Lily no way. Did you guys actually-" A finger was pressed on her mouth.

"No, nothing like that, Jeannie. It was a sleepover. That's all." That consisted of him spooning me when we went to sleep and those heavenly kisses on my shoulder. Then in the morning I was intertwined with him. Those details were kept secret though. "Knowing where your mind goes, I can confirm I had done nothing of the sort." Even if those sparks were so strong that they were hard to resist. The agent silently added.

"You know Lily, I just think you guys need to date at this point. The tension is so thick that I could practically touch it."

"I don't know what you're talking about." She took another sip I feel it too. The sparks always getting stronger the closer he is.

"Yes you do, I can see it on your face! Look at you, I can tell when you're flustered."

"I'm not flustered."

"Then explain your red cheeks!"

"The heat from this tea is a little hot."

"That's a lie and you know it! You dont even know when you're too hot even for me to touch! You don't feel nothing near that little tiny heat."

"My insides are sensitive too you know." Lily replied almost smugly.

Huffing, Jeannie crossed her arms and tapped her foot "Fine. Since you won't tell me anything about last night, how about your birthday? Did you plan anything this year? Or did you skip out on doing something again?"

Ah, that's right. Her birthday was coming up and it seemed that Jeannie always reminded her when it was getting close. While practically everyone remembered their own birthday, Lilliana simply forgot hers cause it wasn't that important in her mind but her best friend always made a big stink about it and made the same speech every time. How without her, Jeannie wouldn't have a best friend, wouldn't be in V.A.G.E. It was a whole thing and it was surprising how it never changed and was practically word-for-word every year. "Jeannie, you know I don't plan anything for my birthday. I don't even really eat cake either. You know parties aren't my sort of thing and even then I need at least-"

"A drink or two in your body before going partying." Jeannie finished, moking her along with her hands waving about with each word "Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know. And that's why we always get you like, a cupcake or something! It's not that big and its like your own little personal cake that no one cut into." She leaned forward on her desk "C'mon Lilliana. I already have a present in this noggin, I just need you to be on board with doing something at the very least! It'll be a great surprise I promise!" The girl grinned as she waited in anticipation of her best friend's reply.

With a sigh, she placed her mug down "You know we have similar conversations in the past and this is no different from them. Even if I say no, you're still going to do what you do on my birthday. Whatever it is... But please don't let it be like that Banana incident please...That was horrible..."

A nervous laugh escaped her lips "Haaa....Yeah... That was pretty bad...Luckily that was a few years ago even though it feels like yesterday..." Rubbing the back of her head, she then bounced back "You're right though! I won't listen and I'll still do things! It's your special day and you get to be treated like a princess and everything! I'll get you a little crown this year and we'll put it on your head!" With that said, she gave her a thumbs up and skedaddled. If she was caught slacking first thing in the morning who knows what Carter may do.​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21 t​

Once he finished Liliana’s plate he began working on his own. Sunnyside up eggs, toast, sausage, and of course the classic drink, orange juice, just to tie his own breakfast together. Afterwards he took his seat next to her and ate. They sat in comfortable silence as they ate breakfast, Declan wasn’t sure when they got so close they could sit in silence with only the sound of their forks cutting into their food and the occasional scrap against the plate. Liliana may not have realized it, but Declan had a hard time not to place his hand on Liliana’s thigh, just like the café or at her apartment for what ever reason she had this effect on him, it felt like a curse. He had to have one hand on some part of her body or else he would explode or something. Declan was finishing his orange juice when Liliana suddenly spoke, thanking him. He blinked and looked over at her for a moment, “for everything? It’s just eggs Lilly.” He said jokingly. Although he had an idea what she actually meant he wasn’t going to hold it against her, especially since he was the cause of her little…slump. After finishing breakfast, he stretched out his arms and leaned against the table and just looked at Liliana as she finished her own food. She was attractive that much was obvious, but something happened in these last months that he found himself falling not just for her beauty but everything about her. The way she hides her face when she was flustered, the way her eyes light up with her taunts and teases, and the look she gives him last night before they kissed. She was living rent free in his mind, and he didn’t mind at all. She spoke up when she caught him staring at her and he chuckles, “nothing, just…thinking.” He says as he places his hand on her cheek and brushed a thumb across her lips, “…That I need to shower.” He says before getting up, “make yourself comfortable, Lily, I’ll try to take a quick shower, we have…” he looked at the clock, “an hour or so before we’re late.” Before he walked off to shower he gave Lily a quick kiss, something he was getting very comfortable with, before walking off to shower.

As he said, his shower was quick, the longest part of him getting ready was putting out his V.A.G.E. uniform. Afterwards he met Liliana down in the living room and after another make out session, they finally left only to have about thirty minutes to make it to work before they were both late. As much as she wanted to ride without a helmet again Declan made sure she wore it this time. After a back and forth he finally convinced Liliana to just put on the helmet and mount up before taking off. After last night everything felt…brighter? Declan couldn’t explain it, the day just felt different in a good way. The air was cool, the sun was high, no sign of any traffic or cops so it was the perfect condition to push his bike and fly on the freeway, purposely missing two freeway exits just to make the bike ride a little longer. Which was probably a bad idea since by the time they reached V.A.G.E parking lot they where five minutes late for their shift although you wouldn’t it by how nonchalant the two got off the bike. Declan began taking off his equipment before grabbing the helmet from Liliana, grabbing her hand and began walking towards the building, although there was a silent agreement that the moment they walked into the building they would let go and act normal.

In the office, Declan and Liliana stayed separated long enough to get some work done. Checking emails, sending emails, and the most boring part waiting for any signs of ‘Wolf’ or something to happen that would warrant a response. Which he knew wasn’t going to happen considering…well…he was wolf. A email popped up that looked like spam and he was about to ignore it when he saw a certain “+” combination at the end of the email link, “Hm?” he questioned before he got up, “aw fuck! I forgot I need to call Atlas HQ for the monthly report!” He says as he quickly got his phone and rushed out of the office. He was barely out of the doorway when he saw Jeannie walk past him, “Hey, Jeannie.” Declan said quickly as he began dialing a number.

The call didn’t last long, just Jas being an impatient hacker wanting to continue his killing spree, but Declan managed to convince him to wait, using the ‘it’s not the right time’ excuse. In reality, he felt he was beginning to put this whole Wolf situation behind him. After everything that was going on between him and Liliana the urge to kill was starting to go away, he couldn’t let them get away with what they did but he also didn’t want to ruin what he had with Liliana.

After the phone call was done he made his way back to the office where he heard the tail end of Liliana and Jeannie’s conversation. Wait, her birthday? Declan hadn’t realized he was here for that long that it was almost Liliana’s birthday. He stayed silent as he listened to the conversation learning Liliana never had plans for her birthday and Jeannie would usually just give her a cupcake or something. Well, this year was going to be different. As soon as he heard the conversation end he walked into the office pretending like he didn’t hear the conversation they just had. The two friends greeted each other as they passed and Declan walked to his desk, “What was that all about?” Declan asked looking over at Liliana. As usual she told him it wasn’t important and got back to work. Declan looked at his not-girlfriend before returning his gaze back to his computer screen well, time to get to work ‘Operation Surprise Party’ is ago!

For the next five days Declan was sending secrete emails around the office. First it was to Jeannie who LOVED the idea of a surprise birthday party for her bestie, even said something about Declan being the best boyfriend for even coming up with this idea, which caught him off guard. As much as he wanted to press Jeannie for why she called him that he had other matters to attend to. Carter was harder to convince since he was the head of V.A.G.E and taking some time off could complicate things. However, in the end he managed to convince him to at least take a hour, it was Liliana’s birthday after and he was like a father to her. When ever Liliana walked up to his desk he would immediately close out of his emails trying to keep his plan a secrete, when ever he left the office for whatever reason he would make sure to log out so she couldn’t see his screen. He even began hanging out with other people in the office and would immediately disperse the moment Liliana joined them making up excuses like ‘need to make copies of some paperwork’ or ‘they have a email to send to some business’ a business they clearly made on the spot.

Once Declan got the invitations sent out it was time to pick out a venue, and Declan had a perfect one in mind. After finishing some work he got up, logged out of his computer and says, “I’m going to lunch.” When Liliana said she just needed to sign a paper and she’ll join him he shook his head, “Actually, I would like to go to lunch alone, got some things I want to…umm…work on.” He walked up to Liliana and gave her a quick kiss on her forehead, “see ya in a hour, yeah?” With that said he turned around and walked out. He drove to the café and surprised Eddie seeing as Declan would normally show up with Liliana. They had a quick conversation over some drink. Delcan wanted to use Eddie’s café as the venue for Liliana’s birthday and although Eddie had some concerns about space Declan confidentially stated everyone would have a good time regardless if it is a little crowded. After they agreed to a time and price they shared a cup just as Liliana walked in. Declan gave her a look before looking back at Eddie, “remember it’s a surprise, don’t say anything.” He downed his drink and tipped Eddie before walking out, “Hey Lily, I’m heading back to the office,” he almost leaned in for a kiss but stopped himself, “See you there ok?” with that said he walked out.

Finally, Friday came along. Declan noticed the office slowly going to “lunch” causing the office to become more empty than normal. Declan waited until he got a text from Jeannie to let him know they are ready. Once he got the go ahead he stretched his arms out, “Oh man…I could go for a drink…” he says before looking over at Liliana, “hey, ready for lunch?” She just looked at him and questioned his intentions which caused Declan to blink, “w-well we hadn’t had lunch together in a while a-and you know what they say about having some drink during lunch, it always tastes better when you have company.” However, she didn’t seem to bite as she brought it to his attention that he had avoided her for a week. He sighed, although it was true that he did avoid he it wasn’t because he wanted to, “Come on Lil,” he says as he slides his chair to her and pulled her own chair away from her computer to face him, “Just come out and have lunch with me.” He says before adding, “I’ll let you ride my bike without a helmet~” he teased. He noticed the blush on her cheeks before she looked away asking him if there was a reason why he avoided her, “Of course not!” he says as he grabs her hands and holds it in his, “I’ll explain everything, Lil, let’s say…over lunch?” She looked at him for a second and sighed before finally agreeing, he smiles and stands up keeping one of his hands in hers as he pulls her to her feet, “the usual place.” He stated before walking out of the office with her, his arm around her shoulder as they walked out of their office into an empty office and to the elevator.

Declan promised her she could ride without a helmet as much as he wanted to go back on that word she was the birthday girl and she wanted to ride without on so he honored it, even if he drove a little more within the speed limit. They drove to the usual alleyway and parked before dismounting and walking into the alleyway. Declan kept her hand in his all the way until the café was within sight which he quickly lets go and goes to the door, the smile on his face wide, “after you.” He says. As Liliana got close she would notice the usual open sign was off and the curtains where closed and the lights seemed off inside. She questioned him but Declan just tilts his head for her to enter. When she walked in it was dark and got even darker once Declan walked inside and closed the door behind him. There was a second where she couldn’t really see anything but swore she could hear something but before she could determine what that noise was the lights suddenly flipped on and the Café was packed with V.A.G.E employees with Carter, Jeannie, and Isaac standing front and center.

“SURPRISE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY LILLY!”

They yelled in unison as confetti, balloons, and party poppers filled the room. Lilly looked to be in shock before bumping against Declan who stood behind her. When she turned around he gave her a smile, “Happy Birthday, Lil.” He almost kissed her but stopped himself, he didn’t know if they were official or not but this was her day, her party, and he wasn’t going to ruin it by giving into HIS urges.

 

[Britt-21]

After breakfast the rest of the day went great, especially when Declan kept spoiling her with kisses and his embrace. While she noticed he was distracting her tremendously from work, for once in her life she didn't care. It was a breath of fresh air not burying herself inside her computer, files, or anything of the sort. It felt nice to have... Positive distractions such as taking care of Tiffany, hanging out with Declan... But that was until he began to avoid her like no tomorrow. Any time she came into a conversation; He was gone. Came up to his desk? Closed everything on it before she caught a glimpse. Hell, he began to hang out with other people she never seen him hang out with before and it was absolutely weird. At first she wondered if maybe she said something to him and hadn't realized. Or maybe he was getting back at her for doing the same to him... But the thing was, Declan never stopped giving her a kiss on the forehead or trying to ease her any way he could. This is what confused her and quite honestly started to instill a feeling she hadn't thought she'd feel in a long time. She was getting anxiety, wondering if he was just going to toy with her and then drop her like nothing and this was his way of showing it. This frustrated the Agent and she did what she could to forget about it. Push it so far down that she couldn't feel it anymore.

Maybe he was done. Maybe all he wanted was a little thrill.

But that didn't make sense.

Not when...

Not when they shared so many moments that they both wanted to lose control.

Where they both tried to navigate despite being so awkward...

Lily's jaw tightened slightly once he was gone for lunch. There she was in her office all alone. "I don't understand. It's so infuriating." Her blue gaze shifted down to her keyboard as she let out a sigh of frustration. Her fingers began to dance on the keyboard as she began to search for anything that she could find with the current objective in mind: The Island City. Wolf gave her the tip, refused to help, and she was alone on it... Well... Not exactly alone. She had Declan and he was more than helpful but he had no clearance to anything they needed either. Everything that was found was locked away, even minuscule things. Placing one hand underneath her opposite elbow, she brought her one hand to her lips where her thumb sat between her teeth and her foot tapped in thought. "What was on that Island... Do I need to go so far back that it has to be irrelevant for me to find it?" Lifting her gaze towards the window, her mind began to process, wheels turning as she tried to map out her next game plan. Lately Wolf had been on the quiet side which was so abnormal that it bothered her. They went at it for weeks and yet he was MIA. Was he going to plan something so big that not even V.A.G.E. Can stop it? Getting up from her seat, she moved to the window and stood before it, her gaze going over the rest of the city "I'll have to start from the roots. When it comes down to it should I pitch a recon mission to gather intel with a small team?" Eyebrows closed together before she turned and looked at the office space she shared with Declan.

James moved back to her computer and began typing away once again. She had to go to the roots. Lucky for her, this is where she was beginning to get results and her hopes were going on an all time high. The Island City opened up a Reactor that had some sort of new environmentally friendly energy for the Island city. "Yes. This is great. Progress for once." With a small smile, she grabbed a hard drive and began to download what she could. She even found more about the reactor and how many thought it was going to pollute the city worse than the other reactors, so people were pushing back to the point where the Army had to get involved. The woman blinked a few times as she downloaded it. "What would Wolf do with something like this? Why would he want revenge on people for this... I mean, yeah if it's coming to a point where many thought this was going to be horrible for the environment... Nah he's not petty enough to go on a killing spree over some environment stuff..." Thus the agent continued, finding that on the Fourth day of protests, there was a member of some sort of Terrorist group known as Green Earth "Very original... Couldn't find anything better huh?" She murmured, though to be fair, even the simplest of names could have a dangerous force behind it. Anyways, they forced a unit and took over the reactor with the consequences of demanding the Army of things that couldn't have been done. Once again her thumb had been between her teeth as she continued to read and download. Multiple times the Army failed to take back the reactor and kept being pushed back due to the Terrorists holding up so well. How in the world was she finding all of this now?

It was oddly convenient... Or perhaps she just wasn't looking in the right places like she was now. Leaning back in her chair, the woman continued to contemplate. Who in the hell was involved with this other than those Wolf killed already? As soon as the download had been completed, she kept going to find even more information. The Sixth day the Admiral; Matias Gren, intercepted a coded transmission that informed them that the terrorist group was planning on making the reactor explode if their demands had not been met. Typical. They exploded it in the end didn't they? Onward and forward, the Army pushed and failed and instead a bright light engulfed the city and killed millions and the Island City was nothing but ruins. Holding the honor of the fallen. "So they exploded the reactor? But why is it red taped, I don't understand." While on the website she was on, she decided to take a look at the comments at the bottom like most articles did. However, in the process, there was one thing that stood out to her. A person typing in all caps.

"THIS IS BULLSHIT! THEY'RE COVERING IT UP! This is not a spam link, just look at this! THIS IS WHAT REALLY HAPPENED"

Afterwards was a link to which she was very skeptical about. Should she really click it? Would it fuck everything that V.A.G.E. had? "...I can risk it. We'll be fine. We have good security." With that, she clicked into it and while the site did look sketchy, there wasn't crazy ads or flashy suspicious things. In fact it was a simple website that claimed that what was shown in the articles were fake and not to believe them. Now Lilliana was not one to believe conspiracy theories but it didn't hurt to look at them and kinda be like "Oh that makes sense" or "Nah that's bullshit." So she began to read, watching as this writer claimed that none of it was true and went off about what actually happened. Such as the bright light that took over the city and shone into the sky? It was the same exact color as the beam cannon that was fired from one of the ships in the area. With a tilt of her head, she let out a slight laugh "You're joking me." After a bit longer of reading, she found a name: Marc Hethcliff. He was one of the guys on her list that she wasn't so sure of him being a target but yet was still an option. Just as she was about to read more, the site froze and as soon as she refreshed it gave her a 404 Gateway not found. "I guess that's my time to stop for right now." Removing the USB she put it in her drawer and she closed out for now. She'd return later. For now she was going to take her lunch and tell Declan what she found later on...That's if she was able to even talk to him at this point. He would claim he was on her side and she could tell him anything but right now it didn't feel like she could.

Lily went to her favorite place; The Cafe. Just as she stepped inside, she noticed Declan at the bar talking with Eddie. He glanced back at her and then at Eddie before he downed whatever he had left and started to leave. "De-" His name almost came out, but it barely did as he said he was heading back. The way he dipped down instinctively made her react to match his actions but he stopped and instead opted for words before disappearing out the door. I... I don't get it... I just want to be able to talk to you just once. Her hands balled into fists as her gaze dropped to the ground. There was nothing more frustrating than being unable to talk to the person who made you feel on cloud nine just cause they were avoiding you. "Extra Hot Eddie... I'm not feeling it today." He easily made her drink for her and she took a seat. The rest of the day was absolute shit. While she had answers to some degree, there was still that one question left: What about Declan? He left before her and she walked herself to Tiffany's school where she picked up her little sister and brought her home. That night she made food for her, helped her with homework and then put her to bed after some bedtime stories. The woman stood in her office with a new board and new pages clipped to it, a glass of wine in her hand while she continued to think of the board. This was her free time hobby, even if it was just work. "Terrorist group, a reactor that wasn't so environmentally friendly, Marc whoeever the fuck..." Taking a sip she glanced down at the dark red liquid. "Army fought with the terrorist group... And a beam of light that possibly didn't come from the reactor but from a nearby ship..."

Friday finally came through and it was Lily's birthday. While she had nothing planned and Jeannie hadn't said anything, she figured that just maybe that she got away for free. Declan exclaimed that he could go for a Drink but she really didn't reply to it before he asked if she was ready for lunch. Raising her eyebrow, she lifted her gaze from her computer "...Why do you all of a sudden want to have lunch with me?" To her, his response was nervous sounding. Much like how it was when she met him. Was he nervous at the fact that he was avoiding her and now suddenly he was just wanting to have lunch like it was nothing? "You haven't been talking to me for a week now... You didn't seem to have an issue eating without me." While her words were harsh, she wasn't exactly lying... That's what it was to her the entire week. Declan came over to her and pulled her own chair out, her in tow as he spun her to face him. Now he wasn't asking, he was telling her to just go out to lunch with him, even going as far as bribing her. A soft blush creeped on her cheeks and she turned her head away "Are you going to continue avoiding me?" The response he gave her wasn't hesitant, he was direct, to the point, and didn't even stutter. His own hands grasped her own and Blue orbs looked down at their hands before back to him. A gentle sigh escaped her lips "Okay... That's fine. Lead the way." It didn't help that she still felt that creeping anxiety lurking in the back of her mind. His arm draped across her shoulders as they left and went for that bike ride.

At first she was still feeling down as they prepared to ride, but after they were on the road she began to feel happy with the wind in her hair and the sound of the motorcycle filling her ears. It seemed every time she sat on the back of the bike, she felt free as the wind went through her hair while she felt that sense of danger since nothing but her arm had kept her basically attached to the bike since Declan was the one holding onto it. Before she knew it, the ride came to an end as he got to the alley and parked in their usual spot before heading to the Cafe. He ran up ahead and grabbed the door with a smile on his face, making her eyebrows furrow in confusion Why is he looking at me like that? Looking at the window, she noticed that the open sign wasn't lit and the curtains were closed. This wasn't normal for Eddie...Especially in the middle of the day "Declan why...Why are the lights off and the curtains closed?" When the agent looked back at him, he simply tilted his head towards the open door to get her to enter. Well he wasn't very helpful... Slowly she approached and noticed even the interior lights were shut off. The door shut behind them and it was pitch black but she could hear breathing. She didn't like this, it was triggering a fight or flight response. What was he doing?

Before she knew it, the lights flashed on and her ears were filled with everyone screaming with party poppers and familiar faces in the room. Lilliana was caught off guard for certain and her heart almost exploded from her chest. She didn't like parties unless she had at least a drink or two in her body. Jeannie knew that! There she was, standing front and center with Isaac and Carter. With surprise on her face, she had backed up into Declan and quickly she turned as their gazes locked. Despite avoiding her for so long, he still said Happy Birthday to her before beginning to lean down. James was once again going to meet up with him halfway but he had stopped. There were layers upon layers of emotion at this moment. Happy, nervous, shy, and more. So many overwhelming one another that she wasn't sure how to really process all of it correctly. Lowering her head, she pushed herself into her partner and felt his arms wrap around her. While she was an adult, things were left unexperienced and left in uncharted territory, which resulted in her falling into her reaction to hide. Declan was calling her name softly and she could barely hear it over the sound of people chanting for a speech.

Just as Lily lifted her head to look at him, that infamous smile seemed to have been plastered on his face while he mentioned the speech and gently turned her around and told her she had this. But what caused her stomach to tie in multiple knots was the fact that he didn't use her name, but called her a nickname that couples used for one another. Pale cheeks turned red as her gaze landed on the crowd who quieted down and Jeannie egged her on. How would Lilliana make this speech? There was nothing to talk about other than just...Thanking them? This is so awkard...It's not like the field where I would know what I'm talking about. The only time I care about myself is when Tiff or Declan are involved because I know that they need me... Taking in a deep breath and trying to ignore the rock that sat at the bottom of her stomach, she spoke "Thank you all... For coming today I...I really appreciate it." The agent moved her hands behind her back as she could feel the adrenaline going into her hands, so one way to hide them was behind her between herself and Declan. "I didn't think that my birthday would be really that intriguing to celebrate."

"Nonsense Lily! We love you! Even if you are a little hard on us sometimes!" Shouted Jeannie before being sushed and she giggled while whispering "Sorry."

At least Jeannie knew how to make the space a little lively even when things were tense and difficult for her. But alas, she continued "While my speeches on the field are far more enjoyable to hear, doing one here is a little bit more difficult." Maybe she should just call out people that she enjoyed? Well...She liked her whole floor essentially to some degree that she'd fight for them as she had done with previous agents on the field. "So don't expect something cool like usual." James started "Jeannie, you big ball of sunshine, sometimes I feel like I should've ran as far as I could from you. But you're so attached to me that it's impossible for me to let you go now." The girl laughed and gave her a thumbs up before she continued "Isaac, one of the many great agents that keep her in check... Keep up the good work. Thank you for being a great friend." Then onto Carter who stood there with his old-man self. "Boss. Carter. What could I even say about you? You raised me like one of your own here and for that I'm greatly appreciative of that. Thank you for helping me." Then she looked to the crowd "And thank all of you for supporting me in days that were rough, and days that were great. Please...Enjoy yourselves to whatever is planned today cause I clearly have no idea...That's all I got." Luckily the room clapped which meant that was sufficient enough and that gave her some relief as she looked over her shoulder at Declan "And you... I'm happy to call you my partner, Declan." A smile tugged her lips and as much as she wanted to kiss him, if she had there would be so many questions and she really couldn't handle anything more right now. If anything she needed a drink...or five.

"You've been through a lot with me as your partner and..." Her voice lowered a little as she faced him with her hands in front of her to hide them from the crowd "You've been giving me experiences like no other. I'd like to admit that..." Dropping her eyes from his, down to his lips she continued "I really want to kiss you right about now just because it feels right for how I'm feeling right now..." Once again her face had changed a different shade before locking her eyes with his golden ones. The words that left his mouth only had her heart stop for a short moment "I... Well... The amount of questions people would ask if I did kiss you. I'm not really equipped right now to take their questions since I'm so surprised by all of this." It was clear that Declan understood where she was coming from before he began to do an impression of Jeannie which looked absolutely silly on him and caused Lilliana to laugh. "You're not wrong, she would act like that because I've never been romantically involved with someone." She then looked over her shoulder at Jeannie who was taking a photo with her phone with that big stupid smile on her face "Am I not allowed to talk with my partner in peace?"

"Nope!" Jeannie said with a laugh "You guys look so cute! Even though you're just talking but look at those smiles! Come on, let's get you a drink. Even though we should be careful cause we still got work afterwards but hey!" Grabbing Lily, she dragged her away from Declan "I'm stealing her for a little bit!" After that, Jeannie revealed her birthday present of going out tomorrow night and drinking with just the four of them. Her, Jeannie, Isaac and Declan. It sounded fun and apparently there was going to be drinks so might as well go right?

The party was fun. She got to talk with a lot of people, catch up with Carter since they spoke rarely out of work. Despite them being basically being on a father-daughter level of connection. They respected eachother and their spaces. But man, she couldn't help but remember when they ran into him down at the training rooms and his expression alone screamed volumes. Thankfully since that day he had never asked and that was kind of him. If he ever asked about that day, she wasn't sure if she could tell him the truth. Perhaps he was just waiting for her to come to him. He'd put the pieces together sooner or later if he hadn't already. After Carter was Isaac, the man who was always dragged into Jeannie's antics but there was always something that she noticed about him...He was always with Jeannie. If they were together, Jeannie wouldn't shut up about it so clearly something was going on with just him that Jeannie never noticed as of yet. Hopefully she'd notice soon, poor guy looked like he was just being strung along. After that was just a lot of catching up with her team, talking about random things such as missions, or what's to come up in the future.

They sang Happy birthday shortly after, having cake and still conversing. While James already did her rounds, she was found right back by Declan's side. Despite him causing her to be shy and more to herself, he also had the effect of making her feel relaxed and recharged "So, you told me you'd tell me why you've been avoiding me this whole week...Is it because of this?" She gestured to the party. If this was his whole reason for avoiding her...It was valid. But man did her mind go wild with wondering what he was doing. Bringing the fork to her mouth with a piece of cake, she bit into it and looked back at Declan. "I thought you were getting back at me for doing it to you if I'm honest." Lily admitted after she finished what was in her mouth.​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

Declan couldn’t help but smile as he stood behind her, watching her as she jumped in surprise the moment the lights flicked on, and everyone yelled in unison and party poppers exploding. When she bumped into him his hands went to her waist almost on instinct before she turned around. To say the expression on her was akin to a deer in the headlights would be an understatement and probably the most adorable thing. Even though Declan noticed Liliana leaning in for a kiss he did stop himself, he wasn’t sure if they were officially together or if she wanted everyone else to know yet. However, despite the two stopping themselves she still pushed herself into him disguising her attempt of hiding into a hug. Declan, with a stupid grin on his face wrapped his arms around her and rocked her side to side, the same way he did when they woke up in his apartment. That’s when the room began to chant for a speech, even Eddie was joining the chant by banging his hands on the bar. This wasn’t something he was expecting but it was a welcome surprise, “you done hiding?” he whispers to her as they continued to chant, “you got a speech to do, Babe.” he says jokingly. Not realizing the word that left his mouth until she finally turned around to face the crowd.

She finally built up enough courage to face her friends and co-workers. She seemed to hesitate for a moment before finally beginning. She hid her hands behind her back as she brute forced herself through the beginning of the speech. Declan showed his support by take a single step and grabbing that hand keeping their hand out of sight of everyone giving it a slight squeeze to show he is there with her before running his thumb along her knuckles. Declan wasn’t sure if that was enough to calm her nerves, but it seemed it was enough for her to find her stride even after Jeannie’s outburst. Lily started her speech in the most classic way by downplaying her own ability to do a speech before expertly going down the list of people and explaining how they changed her life. Once her speech was finished the crowd clapped this time giving Declan his time to speak up, “alright folks! The drinks are on the house, we also got karaoke if anyone is interested.” he says. That's when Carter spoke up right after reminding them to not drink too much since they had to go back to work.

He watched as the group of people began to form into their own groups when he heard Liliana’s voice. He smiles as she turns to face him, and he reaches and grabs her hands in his. She explained how he has been giving her new experiences in her life and there seemed to be more on her mind, but she stopped herself before telling him she wanted to kiss him. A soft chuckle escaped his lips as he pulls her slightly closer to him, “well, what’s stopping you?” he questioned with a grin on his face. The grin went off his face and he chuckled as she explained the number of questions “people” would ask if she did kiss him. She said people but he had an idea who she meant, “I’m pretty sure Jeannie would be 90% of those questions.” he suddenly let go of her hand and did a silly impression of Jeannie “OMG OMG OMG.” his impression was bad, but it still caused Liliana to laugh and that was really what mattered to him. The two non-couple heard a click and when they looked, they saw Jeannie taking a picture on her phone, calling them cute together before she got Liliana and told him she was stealing her for a moment. Declan just smiled and watched her go.

Once Liliana left Declan realized his entire time in V.A.G.E he never really hung out with anyone else besides Liliana and he wasn’t one to go up and make friends despite popular belief. With a huff he decided to go mingle while Jeannie had Liliana’s attention. At first, he tried talking with Carter, but the conversations seemed to die faster than they lasted and after an awkward excuse to leave Declan found himself chilling next to Isaac at the bar. The silence between Isaac and Declan wasn’t as awkward as it was with Carter as they had a silent understanding, don’t try to start a conversation and it won’t be awkward and Declan was fine by that, besides his attention was one a certain birthday girl until he heard someone say, “What the hell kinda of drink is this?” When Delcan looked, he noticed Dixn was sitting in front of Eddie with a familiar drink in his hand. Declan couldn’t help by smirk, normally he would just leave Dixin alone but he just couldn’t help himself.

“What’s wrong Dixin? Can't handle a little smoked Vanilla?” Declan taunted. Dixin shot him a look before putting the cup down.
“More like smoked shit, this drink is awful!” Dixin shot back

“You’re just not sophisticated enough for a drink like that.” Declain said with a shrug.

“Oh yeah? Then drink up jack ass.” Dixin challenged ordering another cup for Declan to drink. Once it was finished, he slid the cup towards Declan with a smirk on his face, “go ahead, drink up Mr. Sophisticated.” Declan held his confident demeanor despite feeling absolute dread in the inside. The last thing he wanted was to drink this during Liliana’s surprise birthday party, but he wasn’t going to back down now, especially not to Dixin.

He cheered towards Dixin before bringing the drink to his lips, the smell of smoke immediately hitting his nose, but he ignored it. The first couple of gulps was nothing but smoke stinging his throat as the liquid went down his throat before being blessed with some heavenly vanilla. Declan had this internal battle for what felt like forever. The only thing pushing him forward was wiping the smirk off of Dixin’s face. Suddenly, after one last drink of vanilla the liquid stopped, and Declan realized he just finished the drink. In the inside he was celebrating, finally conquering the house special drink but on the outside Declan just let out a “Ah,” before placing the cup down and smirked at Dixin, “See? You’re just not sophisticated enough.” He taunted.

“Ok every! Gather around it’s time to sing happy birthday to Lil!” Jeannie called out. Just before he went to join the group, he gave Dixin one last look and tilted an invisible hat towards him before he walked away. He could swear he heard Dixin mumble a swear but Declan didn’t care, right now he was trying his Absolut best to hide the disgusted look on his face after chugging the house special drink.

After they sang happy birthday to Liliana, who absolutely hated the attention and adorably tried to hide her flushed face and got cake. Declan and Liliana once again found themselves together at a random corner of the cafe. The two non-couple stood close with cake in hand but their attention on each other. He chuckled once she questioned if he really avoided her just to set this up and admitted she thought he was just getting back at her, “I’m not that petty,” Declan says with a chuckle before adding, “and yeah, I didn’t want to ruin the surprise but it’s weird.” Declan says as he grabs her small plate of cake places it on a nearby surface next to his own plate of cake, “Jeannie told me you hate surprises,” he reaches and grabs her hand in his, he looked at their joined hands before looking back at her, “but said you won’t mind since it’s coming from me,” he took a single step towards her, their bodies nearly pressed against one another, “any idea what that means? Hmm?”

 

[Britt-21]

Lily watched as he pulled her plate from her hands and simply placed it on a nearby surface. "Declan wh-" before she could continue, he grabbed her hand and what had left his mouth caused her to glance to the side "I...I do hate surprises..." The fact that Jeannie kept throwing her under the bus made the agent feel like that perhaps she shouldn't say anything more. Even if it was helping them get closer, as if they weren't close enough already. Declan was close enough to her that she could smell his infamous scent, the one that she wanted to revel in and bury herself. "I just... I hate surprises... It makes me feel unprepared and activates my flight or fight response." Slowly her attention shifted back to him, locking her gaze with his golden one. Might as well be honest, they've shared so many moments together that at this point "She's not wrong though, I don't mind that it's coming from you. But that's because...Well... I'm sure it's quite obvious. We've been sharing so many intimate moments it's hard to hide that fact. No matter how much we dance around it." The agent grabbed his other hand, with both hands now being held between the two. Gently, she squeezed his with her own. While her voice was low enough for the two of them, she was still a little worried someone might overhear at some point.

Did she want to confess? Was she ready? She had time to think about it... But yet when she would think of saying it, she'd get a block in her throat that prevented her from speaking. Lily bit her lip, her eyes searching in his for something. What was that something? She wasn't sure. Before she could get caught up on her own thoughts, she switched the subject "So, I have something to tell you...It's not really related to this or...What we have going on. I didn't want to forget because it would make things a bit more difficult." The agent took a breath "So I did some digging for the Island City incident. I had to do so much digging that I had to resort to almost conspiracy theorists and their crazy sites. I even thought of perhaps arranging a recon team to get onto the island itself to get an investigation going." Who knows if she'd be allowed to even do that. Even she had her doubts about the whole thing. "I found out what was happening between the reactor, a terrorist group, and something about a beam of light coming from a ship instead of the plant itself. But...The site I was on suddenly crashed and when I tried to go back it was blocked off. I think someone is actively trying to make everything disappear, even before my very eyes."

Declan was silent, but that's what she loved. He listened. He put his own two cents in after she was finished. "I know that a mission to the island could be risky considering we don't know who's involved... But we have to do something. This is the first lead we've gotten since Wolf got here. All he gave me was the incident, but...Now we have more information. Enough that we could act upon it, investigate it." James' voice was almost going up in pitch, as if she was excited that they finally got something after so long. "What do you think, Declan?" He was silent for a moment longer before speaking with her, sharing his own information which blossomed hope in her heart. The train was beginning to leave the station and life was about to get more chaotic "Well sounds like we got a lot on our hands, huh?" Offering him a soft smile, she heard a familiar voice cutting through their conversation.

"Heeeyy! Sorry to bug you guuuyyysss, buuuuuuuut I didn't get to tell you Declan, you're coming to Lily's birthday present tomorrow. No if, ands, or buts. Make sure to dress uh...Casual but not too lazy lookin. Kay? Thaaankksss! I'll text you the details laterr~" Said Jeannie before she wrapped her arm around Isaac and dragged him out the door. It was clear she may have had too much but hey, a little coffee and water can fix that. Or trying to fight against Carter as punishment would bring her back.

With furrowed eyebrows, she looked between Declan and Jeannie before landing right back on Declan "Well... I suppose we'll be able to see eachother tomorrow as well for my birthday present." The funnier thing was that she didn't even address how close they were, or even react in the slightest. Maybe some Intoxication was perfect just to keep her from being all over the pair "Since it does seem like everyone is starting to funnel out, we can help Eddie clean a little bit before heading back to the office." Once the pair agreed, they did just that. Cleaning up a little bit to give Eddie a head start on making sure everything was returned back to normal. Aside from the decor of course, that he was gonna take care of while they were gone. When everything had been finished, the two agents left the cafe and returned to the bike where they were brought right back to HQ and back to their desks. The break was great and the surprise birthday party...As much as she hated surprises, she was glad that in the end it was just Declan setting it up for her. Quite the thoughtful thing of him and that only burrowed him deeper in her heart.

-----------------



The next day couldn't have come any faster. Turns out that Jeannie set up her birthday present at a bowling alley that not only had an arcade, but pool too. Lily was never good at any of it, but because it was Jeannie's present to her, she still turned up. White jeans with a blue crop top that matched her style quite well. While not fireproof, it was still comfortable and pretty. Lily just had to be careful with how hot she could get if she were to get too agitated. Lights were dim, music was loud, and many people in the alley were having a great time. I'm not sure why Jeannie always picks places like these. James thought as she noticed the girl waving her down with Isaac beside her over by the pool tables. There was already a drink in her hand "Already drinking? Not a surprise, you usually try to get to the fun first." She said as she approached.

"Well, hey, the faster you get to the fun the better! Things become more chaotic that way! Also Isaac and I are almost done with this round of pool, then you can join. Where's Declan anyways?" Jeannie asked as she took a sip of her drink.

"He's more than likely on his way. I walked here after getting another friend to watch Tiff for me." After all, she was very specific with who watched her little sister.

"You WALKED here? How dare he!"

"...Jeannie it's not a big deal. I walk all the time." Lily plucked a menu from a nearby table, looking down at the drinks available "Even before Declan got here I still did that."

"Still! He should pick you up, be the prince he is. I see the way he looks at you!"

Lilliana sighed "Jeannie, just shut up and drink more or something. He's fine. We didn't plan to meet up first or anything." Because if we did I'm sure I wouldn't have left my apartment. She silently added. Any time the two were alone to some degree, sparks flew, and there was this tug that brought them together. There was something blossoming and it was coming in strong. Even if no one admitted it yet "I'll order my drink. I'll be back." With that said, she went to the bar and ordered herself a drink. Might as well start since she'd be more relaxed by the time Declan arrived. Her blue eyes looked over the area, watching people laugh and have fun Perhaps this'll be better. But...The more I think about it... Is this a double date?

​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

For someone who always carried themselves in a certain way Declan has always found her shyness adorable. He tilted his head slightly when she began to explain why she didn’t like surprises but soon told him she didn’t mind surprises from him for obvious reasons. He had a pretty good idea why, but he wanted to hear it from her sweet lips, “hmm...pretend I am dumb and explain it to me, yeah?” he says running his thumb across the knuckles of her hands he was currently holding in his own. He looked at her face as she seemed to be debating something in her mind.

The next words that came out of her mouth wasn’t what he wanted to hear but it did intrigue him. Looks like his not girlfriend was being pretty diligent with her investigation, putting in work while they took a week break from one another. She began to break down everything she found during her search. Everything from the “official” reports to the rumor threads on the internet, he couldn’t help but smile seeing how excited she was getting for finding some info, it was cute even, “I never took you as someone who spends their time in the rumor threads.” Declan said jokingly and chuckles, “although,” he released her hands from his and started pretending to think by placing his hand under his chin, “this is the first time I heard a connection between Wolf and the Island City Incident...the only thing he has ever told me was his targets were connected but not in the way we think, if we combine these two together, we could possibly come up with a lead on who he is and why he is targeting these people.” he then smiles at her and nods in agreement, “almost too much, I might not be able to take you out for rides if our work keeps adding up.” he says jokingly.

He was about to grab her hand again, but Jeannie came up to them to let them both know he was invited to Lily’s birthday present tomorrow, “I was planning on going regardless of if you invited me or not.” he says. The two non-couple watched Jeannie walk out with Isaac before he noticed a lot of the people from their work were starting to leave. Lily was the first to talk suggesting they held Eddie cleanup to help him open up for business. Once the cleaning was down both Declan and Lily stayed a little bit longer to talk with Eddie with Declan standing behind Lily holding her body close to his and his arms wrapped around her waist and acting like it was the most natural thing they have ever done. Once the conversation was over, Declan led Lily out holding her hand and only letting go once they reached his bike.

That was a well-deserved break but maybe the next time he did a surprise birthday party for Lily he won’t avoid her for a week or maybe he just won’t do a surprise birthday anymore and just throw a regular birthday party so there was no misunderstanding next time. Yeah, that was probably a better idea.

-------


He parked his bike and stuffed his gear into his small backpack before walking into the bowling alley stopping at the entrance only to see if he could find them. He was half expecting to see the group already starting a game of bowling but was pleasantly surprised to see Jeannie was sitting alone with Isaac and standing near the bar ordering some drinks was the female he wanted to see. A smirk appeared on his face as he makes his way towards Liliana and placed his hands on her waist the moment she was within reach. He felt her jump before he pulls her into him and completely wraps his arms around her, “Hey you.” he says, “Bike ride was kinda lonely without my favorite backpack.” he gave her bare shoulders two kisses completely meant to tease her only for the smell of strawberry hit his nose. Soon enough, two kisses turned to three, then four and before he knew it, he was just sucking on her neck on the same spot he found when they almost lost themselves in her apartment office room. Their bodies rocking side to side only stopping when the bar tender came back with her drink.

Declan let out an embarrassed chuckle before taking his spot at her side, sliding his hand from her waist to her lower back, “I’ll take a jack and coke, light on ice.” he says. The Bar tender had a look when he glanced between Liliana and Declan. Like a chaperone who didn’t trust leaving two teens alone. After a bit the Bar tender left and Declan almost immediately returned his attention to Lily, “So,” He says as he grabs Liliana’s drink from her hand and placed it on the bar before hooking two of her belt loops with his finger and pulls her closer to him, “Have you guys waited long? Or did I get here in time?” The Jack and Coke didn’t take the bar tender long to make but Delcan wasn’t interested in the drink as much as he was in the women beside him. He even had half a mind to just ditch the others and just take her so they could have their own date. However, before he could ask Liliana if she wanted to just ditch they heard a voice calling out to them.

“Declan Harper!” Jeannie yelled from across the bowling alley, “Come here! I have a bone to pick with you!” Declan looked back at Jeannie for a moment before he chuckled and looked back at Lily.

“I think I am in trouble.” he says before he stands up from his seat and placed his hand on her cheek fighting the biggest urge to kiss her before he grabs his drink and walks towards the others. Before Lily had a chance to follow him the bartender quickly grabbed Liliana.

“If he’s troubling you just let me know, I can handle someone like him.” he says looking at Declan and then looking back at her and smiles confidently at her. Their interaction was short but there was intent behind his smile and Lily knew he wasn’t doing this out of the goodness of his heart.
Once the two met up with Jeannie and Isaac Jeannie was glaring daggers at Declan, “I can’t believe you would make Liliana walk here, On her birthday no less!”

“I didn’t ‘make’ her do anything.” Declan says.

“Did you offer her?”

“I...no I didn’t but...”

“Then you DID make her walk.” Jeannie says before pointing an accusatory finger at him, “and for that we will make you pay! Right Lil!.” the small screen overhead lit up with their names on it, “Girls vs Boys! And we’re going to wipe the floor with you right Lil!” he declared wrapping her arm around her friend. Liliana didn’t seem to share the same enthusiasm but Jeannie just laid down the challenge and Declan wasn’t one to back down.
“You wanna go, Jeannie?” Declan says as he places his drink down, “Losers pay for the night, and that includes any food and drinks bought, deal?” he holds out a hand towards her. Jeannie just smirks and shakes it

“Well, jokes on you,” Jeannie says, “cause Lil and I never lose when we are on a team!”

“well there is a first time for everything isn’t there.” He says back confidently.

 

[Britt-21]

Lilliana had jumped slightly and almost turned with a fist full of pain, however when she noticed who grabbed her waist and pulled her in, that threat dropped fairly immediately. "Declan." The agent said with a smile and a gentle laugh "I almost punched you, you know." If she had punched him, she wondered if she'd feel bad about it or if he deserved it for sneaking up on her. Before she could say anything more, her shoulders were covered in kisses and he was enough of a bastard to go for her weakness. "H-Hey..." She murmured, a blush running across her cheeks and her ears getting hot. "That's cheating..." Luckily he had stopped and was now rocking with her when the guy came back with her drink and eventually released her instead. Leaving her back to grow cold after becoming so warm. You didn't have to move, you know. Lily thought while his hands moved into different positions on her body. At least he was giving her some physical touch so she supposed she could let it slide for now.

Bringing her drink to her lips, she sipped on the straw while she noticed the man looking between her and Declan before disappearing. Does he think that Declan is being weird? Probably the case as Declan came up and immediately began touching her. Though she had shown no discomfort nor made any efforts to make him go away. Surely he'd get that hint right? Snapping from her thoughts, she noticed her partner taking her drink and putting it back on the surface of the bar "Hey-" And there she was once again, close to him that she could pick up on that smell he possessed. A scent that would make her want to bury herself in it. "No, we didn't wait too long. I just got here not that long ago myself. So you're pretty much as "on time" as you can-"

Here she came. The Tyrant.

"I think you are in trouble." She agreed with a gentle laugh while leaning into his touch for a moment before he had disappeared. The way he keeps teasing me like this. Just hug me, talk to me. They were already on a fine line that they might as well be on the other side of the fence together. But neither seemed to admit their feelings for the other but yet did it through touch, the way they spoke without actually saying it...Maybe it was just a "them" thing and no one else but them could understand. Just as she grabbed her drink and went to leave and suddenly was grabbed. Why did someone feel the need to grab her the way they were? Whipping her head toward the culprit, her eyes had narrowed slightly and she replied immediately "If he was trouble, he wouldn't be standing." Even though the agents could literally take each other on as they did in the training rooms. "Grab me like that again and you'll learn real quickly not to touch me." Yanking her arm from his grasp, she then walked away. He could've just spoke to her. No need to grab.

Lily wasn't helpless, she could hold her own even though lately she had been doing a shitty job about it due to her own negligence. Coming up to her party of four, she raised her eyebrow slightly and looked up at the screen "You're giving us a lot of confidence that even I myself do not have, Jeannie." Especially when it comes to throwing a ball down a lane. James could do many things, but throwing a ball down a lane was not one of them. She'd gutterball every time. Fun things weren't really a part of her daily life as that would be all Jeannie herself. Though as of late, her life has been nothing but fun the past few weeks with new experiences coming into play. James took her seat and crossed one leg over the other while she sipped on her drink This is going to be a long night. I can already tell.

She wasn't wrong in the slightest as the bowling began because she had done nothing but get the ball majority into the gutter. Sometimes she'd hit the pins but most of the time it was that damn gutter. On top of that, it was suggested they put the rails up and she protested because they didn't need it easy. Just that they had to suffer the consequences. At this point, the agent was two drinks in and already feeling it even though she tried not to show it as she started her third. However, that was thrown out the window as she could be found closer to Declan and hugging his arm from time to time. Occasionally she'd gaze over his dark strands of hair, sometimes even take in his features as she silently admired everything about him. I wonder if he's aware of how handsome he is. The dark hair that blends in with the night, golden gaze that can pierce into one's soul... Why is he the only one who caught my eye after so many men trying their shot with me and failing? A small smile tugged her lips as she hugged his arm a little tighter He was natural, he was silly, he didn't try to force himself to be with me... We worked together in the same room for hours, weeks, months.

Her cheek rested against his arm as she closed her blue eyes and found safety in his presence. A constant emotional battle I could never win. All I know is that I want to always be by his side. Even after all the awkward situations we've been in... All this happy and mushy gushy stuff was definitely out of her zone and out of character but yet she fell into it so easily and embraced it like a long lost friend reunited. Her eyes opened when she heard Jeannie scream as she hit a strike and jumped around excitingly, while it was good that they got a strike, it wasnt going to help the situation of the points. The girls were not gonna win this one, not with Lilliana on the team.

MangoGoGo



​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

As soon as the challenge was thrown by Jeannie, Declan got very competitive. However, it became clear that Liliana and Isaac were not very good. At first it was all fun and games when it came to teasing Liliana’s first gutter ball and even talking a bit of smack to Isaac when he guttered or missed the pins. It was clear to Declan that it was going to be up to him to win the game for his team and all he could hope for was Isaac to not miss up too badly but just because Declan and Jeannie understood talking smack to their partners wasn’t going to be fun didn’t mean they didn’t start smack talking each other. Even though it was suggested to bring up the rails for Liliana, so she didn’t gutter all the time Declan still blamed Jeannie teasing her that she needed them because she couldn’t get a spare to save her life, Jeannie responded with a fake laugh and a middle finger.

At first the males and females sat in opposite sides as the game continued. However, the further the game progressed the more drinks the party drank, and the closer he was to Liliana until finally he was sitting right beside her, his arm being held by her as the group sat and talked for a bit. The only time he ever pulled away from Liliana was to go throw a bowling ball but he always returned wrapping his arm around her shoulders or placing his hand on her thigh. He got up one last time and smirked at Jeannie, “Any last words before I win this game?” he taunted Jeannie. Jeannie shot him a glare as Declan walked up to the lane and rolled the Bowling ball skillfully. All he needed was a spare but he ended up getting a strike. He spun and pumped his arm, “Woo! Eat it Jeannie!” he says as the screen above said the words “Team 2 Wins”. He returned to his seat next to Liliana and wrapped his arm around her shoulders before placing his hand on her chin and turned her to face him, “and my prize.” he says.

He eyed her lips before brushing them with his thumb. She knew what his intentions were, and it was clear she wanted it too as she leaned in once Declan did so. It started as a short kiss but the moment he felt her tugging on his shirt to keep him close he closed his eyes and fully committed to the kiss. He kept his arm around her shoulder and on her arm to keep her body close to his while the other trailed from her chin, down her chest, and onto her thigh where he felt Lilliana’s hand on top of his and brushed her thigh with his thumb. Lucky for them the bowling alley was a bit dark only being lit by black lights and some dark shades of reds and blues here and there or else they would of saw Delcan practically leaning on Liliana while deepening the kiss more and more as he lifts his hand to cop a feel.

Declan had no intention of stopping the kiss until he felt something hit his head, “Ow...what the hell?” Declan says as he pulls away from Liliana.
“Hey!” Jeannie yelled from across the way. She was half sitting on Isaac’s lap with a small tray of fries, “Get your tongue out of my best friend’s mouth! She is too innocent for that!” She laughed and Declan couldn’t help but look at Liliana, her face red from Jeannie’s words.

“I don’t know, I think Lily doesn’t mind it.” Declan responds back and receives a small hit on his arm from Liliana. He laughs and holds Liliana close before he tries to kiss her again. She reluctantly kissed him back, maybe a bit embarrassed about the comments made.

Declan wasn’t sure when Jeannie or Isaac got up and left but he was too preoccupied with the beautiful women under his arm to even care, “Man, when you said you don’t go out and have fun very often you really meant it huh,” he says jokingly, “I never seen someone gutter so many times.” He teased her. She rolled her eyes and seemingly tried to get out from under his arm, but Declan pulled her back, “I’m joking, Babe, I’m joking.” he says with a chuckle. She asked him why they weren't making out like they were before and Declan says, “I’m just trying to recapture the magic.” He was caught off guard when this time it was Liliana’s turn to initiate the kiss. He didn’t mind though as they kissed again, and this time, Declan placed his free hand on her chest.

However, the kiss didn’t last long, as he felt someone flick his ear causing him to flinch, “Ow! What the fu-” when the two looked they saw Jeannie holding two pole sticks and held one towards him.

“You got lucky with bowling!” she started, “But I bit we could beat in pool!” Jeannie challenged. Declan really wanted to pass and just continue making out with Liliana but his comitative side took over and he grabbed the pole stick.

“I don’t know how many times I have to embarrass you, Jeannie,” Declan said as he stands up, grabs Liliana’s hand and gets her to her feet before wrapping his arm around her, “but if you want to lose, Lily and I will be happy to oblige.”

 

[Britt-21]

James could barely remember what was going on at this point. Her balls kept getting into the gutter and at one point it seemed like she was doing it on purpose. Quite honestly, the longer time went on, the more the alcohol sunk into her system. The agent was sitting on her chair and she noticed a change in lighting and when her eyes lifted up to the screen, it claimed who won and it definitely wasn't Jeannie and Lily that's for sure. Dropping her blue eyes back down towards Declan who approached and swiftly sat by her while wrapping his arm around her small frame, a small smile tugged her lips "Your prize? Surely I've been the prize whether you won or not." The smile on her face merely grew bigger as she leaned in and was even happier as he met her halfway. However, he was being cheap and giving her a short kiss while she wanted a much longer one. Hands lifted to his shirt where the fabric was grasped and held him close to keep the kiss going.

As his hand trailed down her body, her own hand had met his, placing it gently on top while she let herself get lost in the kiss. This alone was like a drug to an addict. Declan was so addicting and she wasn't sure if he knew that. Lily wanted to be happy with him, to lose herself within his grasp and enjoy every moment she could possibly get. Drown in his kisses and more. Soon enough, he pulled away and at first she was upset as she let out a small noise of protest before she found the reason why he broke away from her. Glancing over for a brief moment, she then locked eyes with Declan again as her face turned red (though with the lights it was hard to see) and her face got hot. While one was unable to see the redness of her face, one would see the expression that showed she was getting shy. Even went as far as to smack his arm as he responded to Jeannie and pulled her in for another kiss which made her hesitate for a moment before returning the kiss.

But that bastard broke the kiss again and looked at her "Yeah well...Throwing bowling balls down a lane is not something I'm very good at so I wouldn't call it fun." If she was honest, she was having fun just talking and hanging out with Declan, no offense to her bestie of course. As he pointed out her gutter skills, her eyes rolled and she sucked her teeth as she tried to pull away from him. Easily he was able to bring her back without issue “We don’t need the magic to be recaptured if we know what we like and what we want.” She replied as she grabbed him and pulled him into another kiss. It was sweet, loving, and perhaps maybe a little hungry as she still wanted more like a spoiled child on christmas morning.

Unfortunately the kiss ended and it was by none other than her friend Jeannie. “Jeannie…” The agent muttered as she challenged her partner once again and off they went. Being dragged over to the pool tables where she wished they started as she would’ve been able to win while sober. Now, it was just too damn late and the alcohol was working her system. While the pair set up the table, she couldn’t help but allow her eyes to wander over her partner with every move he made. He wore a white button up but for some reason any time he flexed or turned a certain way, she could see the shirt fit to him and expose his toned muscles. Again with those muscles… I still haven’t forgotten the time I had to patch him up. Even then I couldn’t stop staring… Lily thought to herself as she watched him lean over and break the triangle and get a solid in. Guess he was solids while Jeannie was stripes. He went another time but didn’t get a ball into one of the holes so he came right up to her.

Blue eyes lifted up to him as he got closer with the wooden pole in his hand and wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her up against him and placing a kiss on her lips. He was going to make her shatter at this point if he kept being so direct. As he broke away, her hand lifted up and she cupped his cheek gently, brushing her thumb against it. His skin was so soft…

“DECLAN! Stop fuuuuccckkinn arrrounnnndd and GET OVER HERE! I got a game to WIN!” While she was distracting the two, she still wanted to play some more even if Isaac already knew that this was just a waste of time.

“Guess you have to go back…” When he replied, she smiled and watched him break away from her and immediately get to work trying to kick Jeannie’s ass at pool. Easily he holed a few and returned back to her, hands going into her back pockets and kissing her neck. The agent’s head tilted to the side to give him the room he was asking for before the same situation occurred. He was tugged back with jeannie yelling at him and him coming back for more from her with his hands on her waist, wrapping his arm around her, and much more. It got to the point where Jeannie was basically gonna lose so she stared at the table not wanting to accept defeat so both Decaln and Lily were given free time to talk gently to one another, give kisses, embrace one another. Isaac had his arm around Jeannie and was trying to talk to her to have everyone start to get home since the alcohol was working through every single one of them. Plus he knew when to take a hint.

Her one hand was taken into his own while his other arm was kept around her, holding her close. Their foreheads leaned against one another and again they kept talking till Declan said something that made her blush so hard she was sure she’d pass out. He claimed that she was coming home with him tonight and that sent butterflies through her stomach at an alarming rate as she could feel her heart picking up pace. “D-Declan.” His lips met hers and there was this clear hunger that he wanted the same thing that she did. They were always in sync with one another even if it meant not saying one damn word. Sparks ran through her blood and she wanted nothing more than for him to take her home. But they were surely not riding the bike back.

James’ hands lifted up to his shirt and unbuttoned the top two, exposing the skin underneath as her fingers gently brushed against him. Was she going to see that immaculate chiseled body once again? Sure as hell she was gonna tonight. She broke away from the kiss and looked up at him with half lidded eyes “Maybe we should get going now… I don’t know how much I can hold back Declan…” Her voice was soft and even breathless as she grasped gently onto his shirt. He was driving her wild and she wasn't sure if he knew that quite yet.​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

Normally, Declan would be on top of this game of pool and showing off while not allowing Jeannie a chance to even play and put her in her place. However, there was a certain “Partner” of his that was looking a little too beautiful tonight. Even though he managed to break and sink a solid ball into one of the pockets his eyes still returned to Liliana, standing to the side with her arms crossed patiently waiting for Declan to take her, at least that is what it seemed like to him. This was distracting and his botched shot proved it, however, he wasn’t upset. He just looked over at Jeannie, “you’re turn.” and walked over to Lily, placing a hand on her bare waist before sliding his hand onto her lower back and pulled her close. She knew what he wanted, of course she did, that is because she wanted the same thing. Without a word he leaned in and kissed his not girlfriend. It was a quick kiss, a teasing kiss but she didn’t seem to mind as she placed her hand on his cheek and smiled up at him while he teasingly turned his head and bit her thumb that was brushing against his cheek.
Declan looked back at Jeannie as she yelled for him to get back to the game and he looked back at Liliana, “looks like it,” he grabbed his pool stick and looks back at Liliana, “I’ll be right back beautiful.” he gave her a wink and walked back to the pool table. He examined the table and noticed she did sink in a couple, but her last shot left him wide open. All he had to do was play it smart which would be hard to do considering the amount of alcohol in his system right now. Even so, he managed to sink in a couple more shots and gave Jeannie a cocky look saying, “uh oh.” every time he sank a ball. Finally, he missed a ball but the que ball rolled behind two of his own balls making it a hard shot for Jeannie. He simply gave Jeannie a shrug before walking back to Liliana, “Now where were we?” he questioned her.

He leaned the pool stick against the wall as he wrapped his arms around Liliana’s body and placed them in her back pockets, reminding him of that time Carter caught them in the training room, his hands on her firm yet butt. She had a look in her eyes, a desire for more, the only reason Declan knew that look was because he was looking at her the same way. He kissed her before going for her neck. A certain spot on her neck that always seemed to leave her weak in the knees and this was no different. Despite the loud music overhead he could hear Liliana breathing getting heavy and saying his name in a very breathy way. The same way she said it that night in her office and that excitement from that night was returning. Before the excitement completely consumed him and take her right there and then he heard Jeannie calling for him once again. He reluctantly stopped kissing her neck and grabbed the pool stick, the look of desire not once leaving his eyes or hers.

The pattern continued throughout the game, Declan would sink a couple balls before going back to Liliana, kiss and feel her up, gets called back to the game. However, the further the game went on, Jeannie’s turn became longer and longer. At this point Declan only had the 8 ball to sink to win and Jeannie still had four balls, all of them in difficult spots to confidently shoot. However, none of that mattered to Declan. His attention was on Liliana who he currently had pinned against the wall, one hand sliding from her waist to her hip while the other was on her chin brushing his thumb against her lips. His eyes wondered onto her body and he made no intentions of hiding it, she knew what he wanted and judging by how she pressed her body against his, she wanted it too, “I hope you know,” Declan says as he lifts her head to meet his eyes with hers, “When I win this pool game, and I WILL win, you are not going home tonight,” he brushed his lips against hers before playfully biting her ear lobe and says in her ear, “you’re coming home with me tonight.” he could hear her breath get caught and she said his name, but Declan stopped her with a hungry kiss. His arm that was at her hip, lifting one leg to his side.

Declan wasn’t sure when it happened, but Liliana had unbuttoned the top two buttons of his shirt. This time it was Liliana who broke the kiss urging him that maybe they should leave, another breath seemed to be caught in Liliana's throat when Declan teased her with another button, seeing her eyes looking at the unbuttoned part of his shirt. Declan nodded in agreement, letting go of her leg and wrapped his arm around Liliana’s shoulders, “Yo, Jeannie, Isaac, we’re heading-.” he stopped talking when he noticed Isaac and Jeannie seemed to be getting some action of them own with Jeannie up against the and Isaac kissing her. He looked at Liliana and shrugged before they walked out of the bowling alley thanking the gods above it was decently dark, minus the black lights.

To say Declan was a little too eager for a taxi would be a understatement. He tried to look like he was keeping his cool but inside he was scattered brained, the only thing he could think about was getting Liliana to his apartment. Five minutes felt like hours but they managed to find a cab, Delcan, being a gentleman let Liliana in first before following her inside, sat beside her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders before telling the cab driver the address to his apartment. As soon as the cab understood and began to drive all it took was one look from Liliana and he was butter. He kissed her again, his free hand resting on her thigh before slowly working his way up to her chest. Liliana seemed to sense this and grabbed his hand, seemingly stopping him, before guiding him. A soft ‘mmm’ escaping from his lips as he deepened the kiss.

The two were lost in their act of kissing and touching ignoring the third wheel currently driving them home. Only breaking the kiss when they felt the car crawl to a stop. Declan pay the cab fare, ignoring the look the driver was giving him, before stepping out and closed the door. The two didn’t wait for the car to take off before they walked inside the apartment building. Normally, Declan would chat with the two older ladies in the front desk however, this time he walked right past them. Giving them only a simple wave and a simple “how’s it going” before he just continued their trek towards his apartment, his hands never leaving her hip as they walked. When they got to the door Declan pulled out his keys and this time it was Liliana’s turn to tease him. Normally, getting his keys and opening the door wasn’t a challenge but with Liliana’s distracting it found it difficult, “Lily...I’m trying to get the door unlocked, stop.” he says with a chuckle, but she didn’t stop and the only thing going through his mind was unlocking his door so he could get her back. When he finally got the door unlocked, he quickly turned around and picked Liliana up and pinned her against his door, her legs on either side of him, “What did I say? Hmm? Now it’s my turn.” he says kissing her lips before attacking her neck.

“Get a room!” a voice suddenly said from down the hallway. Declan stopped what he was doing to look at the people and smirked.

“We’re working on it!” he yelled back before opening the door and walked into his apartment, closing the door behind him with his foot, never once putting Liliana down. The moment they got inside he felt Liliana rip open his shirt and felt her hands gliding along his torso. All he could do was chuckle, when she said she didn’t know if she could hold herself back, she really meant it. It was a good thing he didn’t really mind losing that shirt, he had other things on his mind. He carried her to the couch and sat her on the arm rest before taking off his shirt, ripping the remaining two buttons off as he did so. He noticed her eyes on his body, her hand tracing shapes on his chest it was only when Declan lifts her head to look up at him that she stopped. He kissed her once, twice, and bit her lip teasingly. This time it was his turn to take off an article of clothing from her, he didn’t rip it off her like she did to him, Liliana was...different.

Conversations they had in the past ran quickly in his head reminding him she has never done stuff like this before. He wasn’t going to treat her like some delicate little flower, she was far from that. But he wasn’t going to rush things, he was going to make sure she was ready and it was going to start with her shirt. He reached down to her waist and pulled her shirt upwards slowly all the while giving her some kisses on her neck. She didn’t seem to react, instead, lifting her arms up to help him take it off completely. The moment her shirt came off they locked eyes but Declan took a moment to admire a bare Liliana, his gaze breaking only when he felt her place her hands on his head and forced him to look at her, a look of shyness in her face, “You’re fucking beautiful, Lil.” Declan says softly before kissing her. He pushed against her until he felt them both fall back onto the couch.

Declan knew Liliana has never done anything like this before and he was going to make sure he gave her a night to remember.

 

[Britt-21]

Liquid courage gave the woman all she needed to do an increased amount of riskier moves. Especially while Declan tried his best to get the door unlocked. Poor guy couldn't focus while she was over here teasing him. A small giggle left her lips and soon enough a squeak followed as her back was met with the door. Those soft lips of his locking with her own before attacking the skin of her neck. This man knew every weakness of hers, he crossed every line and she had done nothing to stop it. Why stop something that is liked, while also not hurting? As soon as she noticed the door no longer pressed against her back and they were further inside his apartment, her hands grasped onto his shirt and pulled it open. All the buttons flying in multiple directions and releasing small noises with each crash landing wherever it may have been. No time for waiting. The moment was high, hot, and heavy. No time for dilly dallying. At least in her mind.

The palms of her hands ran along his torso, tracing every dip and line that she could find. Eventually she had been sitting on the arm of the couch and Declan finished the shirt off as the rest of the buttons ripped from his shirt. Looks like he won't be using that shirt ever again. Thought the agent while she continued her pursuit with her touch. That was till Declan cupped her chin and caused her cheeks to turn red once again. Eyes closed while he laid kiss after kiss, even teasing her with a nibble here and there.

Then she felt it.

The touch that sent shocks throughout her very being. Gave her butterflies, knots, and flipped her stomach constantly. Hands tingling, heart pumping, she was sure he could hear it from where he was with how hard the drumming was. Could be a rock concert going in there and he'd wonder where the sound was coming from. Lily bit her lip and tilted her head while his lips attacked her neck, all the while her shirt was being removed so agonizingly slow. Eventually her shirt had been fully removed and she could feel his gaze upon her, immediately causing her to feel bashful, shy even. People looked at her with lust, or perverted natures so that never ever bothered her as she always ignored them or gave them a piece of her mind. But with Declan it felt more intimate than that, it felt like he was seeing through her and it made her feel so exposed to the point where she wanted to cover up.

Instead, she cupped his face and made him look at her instead. That way his focus wasn't on her body. However his compliment really made her want to hide her face but that was impossible as his lips locked onto hers and could eventually feel herself falling back onto the couch with him.

To say she would forget the night would be a complete lie. She remembered it all even after having liquid courage. While the sun slowly peeked through the windows of Declan's apartment, her blue eyes would be looking at him with a new kind of look on her face. It was soft, relaxed, almost a loving look to her. All her walls were down, her defenses nonexistent. There was nothing for her to hide from. He explored everything that he could get his hands on, learned new things about her that she didn't know about herself. Gently and carefully her fingers ran through his dark locks, feeling the softness of every strand and admiring the one thing (well he was the one thing till she found her love for her little sister but this is different) that made her truly happy. Gave her what was missing her entire life that she thought she could live without. He looks so peaceful, like nothing in this world would bother his slumber. She wondered if she should make breakfast for him...Even if she tried she was sure he'd just drag her back into bed anyways.

Fingers gently brushed some hair from his face, taking in every little detail. Even his cute little eyebrow twitches every now and again. That was just so adorable to her. A smile tugged her lips as she tried to remain quiet and enjoy what she could before the man himself woke up and probably caused chaos. He makes waking up easy. Like I have nowhere to go. No one to hunt. Work doesn't exist... I wonder if he knows... Or perhaps he feels the same as I? Instinctively her head tilted slightly in thought at this even though she was in bed. Lily leaned in slightly and gently pressed her lips to the tip of his nose, wondering if that would wake him.

MangoGoGo​

 

[MangoGoGo]

Britt-21​

For once in however long it was, Declan dreamed a dreamless sleep. He wasn't tossing and turning, hearing what he assumed was the screams of those people on the island, no blinding light, no female voice telling him he ran away. Just sleep. However, he didn't realize it until his conscious woke him up just in time to feel someone kiss his nose. His lips turned upward in a amused smile before letting out a sleepy "Mmm..." he adjusted his laying position wrapping his arm around her while placing the other hand on her cheek. He opened his eyes slightly to look at the beauty that was laying beside him, before he leaned forward and kissed her. Images of last night replayed in his mind, everything that started in the living room, Kitchen, and then his bedroom as he kissed his partner. The sights, sounds, and intimacy not only being burned into his mind but the feelings that came with it. Declan wasn't ready to call it "Love" just yet but what else could it be? she has taken every inch of his mind and...dare he say it? his heart. If he wasn't in love then what was this feeling?

That feeling is called 'you're missing the Plot'.

shut up you...

He pulled Liliana on top of him, keeping the kiss going for a moment longer before he finally pulled away, opening his eyes to look into her blue hues, "Hey you." he says, his voice groggy even after the five minute make out session, "Seeing that you are still here, I'm guess last night was as good for you as it was for me, right?" he said with a sleepy smirk. Before putting one hand behind his head while the other begins tracing small shapes on her back. He realized that his alarm didn't go off and when he checked his phone the alarm was off, which meant only one thing. It was Friday, and they usually had Fridays off, unless something comes up and it's all hands on deck, but as of now he had Liliana all to himself, "Well well well," he started before putting his phone back down on the dresser and looks at her still laying on top of him, "We have the day off AND you got in my pants? you have some great timing Lily." he says with a smirk. the question was brought up, how they should start their morning and Declan smirks as he sits up the sheets falling off their bodies and Liliana now sitting up, "Well, I have ONE idea how to start this morning," he places his forehead against hers, runs his hands from her lower back to her waist before kissing Liliana and pushes her back onto the bed.

After "Starting" the morning off, Declan decided to give Liliana the first shower so he could start cooking breakfast. She didn't have extra clothes so he decided to lend her some to lounge around in before they went to pick up Tiff from school. However, he got an idea once he saw the shirt she ripped open. Instead of lending her one of his large shirts he would normally wear on a lazy day he brought up the button less shirt and left it in the bathroom, "I brought you some clothes babe." he called out, the mirrors on the doors fogged up from the steamy shower, half tempted to go in and join her to...save water...she thanked him and he walked out to continue cooking breakfast.