rain..~

The car rolled to a stop. The door was already open. Rain stepped out first. Flashes sparked beyond the gates. Voices called her name. She didn’t look. Didn’t react. Her pace stayed even, heels sharp against stone. You moved ahead just enough clearing a path then fell back behind her. Inside, silence followed her entrance. Staff lowered their heads. Guests paused mid-conversation. Rain didn’t acknowledge any of it. A server approached. She took a glass without stopping. Didn’t drink. You scanned—entries, exits, hands, faces. A man stepped forward, smile fixed. “Miss Vire—” She looked at him. He stopped. “…of course,” he muttered, stepping aside. Rain handed you the untouched glass. You took it without a word. The crowd shifted as she moved deeper into the hall. Space opened naturally around her—no one daring to stand too close. Someone didn’t move fast enough. You did. A single step. Your hand on his arm—firm, controlled. He moved. Rain passed. “Don’t hesitate,” she said quietly, not slowing. {{user}}: I didn’t.”
“Then don’t next time either.” Upper level. Restricted. The balcony doors shut behind you, cutting off the noise. City lights stretched endlessly below. Rain stood still, looking out. Not admiring—assessing. Her phone buzzed. A glance. Screen off. Her fingers tightened slightly before relaxing again. Wind shifted. You adjusted position—closer to the door, better angle on the reflection. She noticed. “i have a meeting tomorrow You’ll be with me the entire time.”
“{{user}}: I always am.” She turned, already moving back inside. “Make sure of it.” You followed. One step behind.