Lilacxrosesx - Blog Posts

Kai watched her leave the set with a smirk, half-amused, half-pushing down his own reaction to the tension between them. He leaned back slightly, eyes following her movements, but he made no move to approach. She’d made herself clear, hadn’t she? He knew exactly what she meant when she said she wasn’t playing games, but the challenge of keeping his hands to himself was something else entirely.

He followed her retreat with a cool smile, stepping away from the set but not leaving her too far behind. He wasn’t going to make things harder for her, not right away anyway.

When she returned to the dressing area and poured herself a drink, he let the silence stretch for a beat, just long enough to make it uncomfortable. "You’re going to have to calm down eventually," Kai’s voice was low, smooth as ever, as he leaned against the doorframe, watching her. His gaze lingered on her for a moment, knowing she felt the heat from him too.

"This set’s about chemistry, right? You want me to act like I don’t already know exactly how to push all your buttons?" He pushed off the doorframe, taking slow, deliberate steps toward her, the hint of something more dangerous simmering in his tone.

"i swear.. if you do anything to mess this up.. kai, i'm serious this is important to me." she gave him a bemused tilt of her head as she smoothed her hair and ruffled the ends that had been curled. there was a coordinator on the set to put kai and pia in their first positions which had to be with pia practically in his lap.

of course any position she was going to end up in was going to remind her of the nights prior where they spent hours making eachother feel incredible. even slipping into his lap and trying to muster up some chemistry like they hadn't already met she could already hear his moans replaying in her head on a loop.

after a few minutes she was a bit stuck, because she couldn't continue anymore. "can i take five? sorry." luckily the photographer was quite understanding and pia wondered back to her dressing area to drink some water. already in a jug for her with ice and lemon she poured herself one filled to the brin as she felt like her body was on fire.

Kai took a moment to look her over, just for a fraction of a second longer than necessary, his eyes scanning her from head to toe with an unreadable look. He was a little shocked to see her too, but it wasn’t something he was going to let slip. Instead, he covered it with that signature smirk of his, as if seeing her here—unexpectedly, of course—was exactly what he expected.

“Didn’t mention it because it wasn’t important,” he said, leaning against the wall, his voice smooth and casual. He stepped closer, his body language unbothered, though there was an underlying tension that only seemed to draw him nearer to her. “But I do my fair share of work. Turns out the universe has a funny way of making things... interesting.”

His gaze settled on Pia, a glint of amusement dancing in his eyes. “You know how it is,” he continued with a lazy shrug, trying to mask the surprise he still felt. “You don't seem happy to see me, Princess.”

although she didn't want him to leave right away, the whole idea of letting him into her world so to speak was somewhat daunting. mostly because of the assumptions he'd made about her from the moment their eyes met and yet she had allowed him to come over.

call it lust filled haze on her part but she wasn't ready to give him up just yet. so they induldge in an intimate moment in the hot tub, back to their back and forths even between chinese food and then she offered him to sleep in the guest room. feeling like inviting him to her own was a little.. personal and overstepping the line of whatever they were doing.

a few days went by and of course pia's mind was filled with him, it made her furious just how much he had gotten under her skin. even more so when she turned up to one of her shoots and she was introduced to her partner for the day only to catch sight of him once more. was the universe finding this funny? "what are you doing here?" she mumbled between having her touch ups. "you never once mentioned you did anything like this.." not that they really spoke about their lives too much.

Kai had been halfway to stepping away when he felt the tug on his wrist, her fingers wrapping around him in a way that was hesitant but firm, like she wasn’t entirely sure she should be doing this—but couldn’t stop herself either.

He turned, his gaze flicking down to where she held him before sliding up to meet hers. She was standing now, still slightly breathless, her hair a mess from their time in the car, lips still red and swollen from his. And fuck, the way she was looking at him—like she was fighting every instinct screaming at her to let him go but couldn’t bring herself to do it.

His smirk was slow and lazy, the kind that held a promise of trouble. “A hot tub, huh?” His voice was low, teasing, but his eyes were sharp, searching. She was trying to play it casual, like this wasn’t a plea for him to stay—like it was just an offer, no big deal. But he saw through it.

His free hand slid into his pocket, head tilting slightly as he watched her. “So let me get this straight,” he murmured, stepping closer and closing the space between them again as he leaned against the car. “You want me to stay, get in the hot tub with you, eat takeout at one in the morning…” His smirk deepened, gaze flickering over her face, lingering on her lips.

After a moment, he gave a small chuckle, shaking his head slightly like he was amused with her. “Alright, Princess,” he finally said, voice full of that same cocky, knowing amusement. “Lead the way.”

it took a matter of seconds where panic set in. where she saw him leaving and it's almost like she couldn't let it happen, have him away from her for too long. she was glad her father wasn't home because she was sure that he would raise hell with her bringing kai back, but she leant forward to this time catch his wrist instead of the other way around. "wait.. kai."

she shifted herself to the edge of the seat as the door was still open then slowly rose to be opposite him, still having a tender grip on him. "if we aren't going to do it again might as well make a night of it? i have a hot tub.." she raised an eyebrow at him though there was this pang of worry and insecurity that he was going to turn her down.

"unless you have plans at almost 1am? but i'm intending on ordering take out and having a dip..so.. the choice in there for you." at she realised instead of them being scrunched up in a compromising position in the back seat he'd actually be able to see all of her.

Kai watched as she pulled away, the warmth of her body slipping from his lap, leaving behind only the ghost of her touch and the scent of vanilla and musk clinging to his skin. His jaw tensed, eyes dark as he leaned back against the seat, taking her in—the way she hurried to fix her clothes, the slight tremble in her fingers, the way she refused to meet his gaze.

She was running. He could see it, clear as day.

A slow smirk tugged at the corner of his lips, but it wasn’t just smug amusement—it was something deeper, something raw that he wasn’t about to name. Instead, he let his eyes roam over her one last time, committing every flushed inch of her to memory.

“Right,” he said finally, voice rough with lingering satisfaction, but there was something unreadable beneath it. He ran a hand through his already messy hair, exhaling sharply. “Guess this is where we pretend like none of it happened.”

Kai let out a low chuckle, finally redressing before reaching for his jacket, shrugging it back on like none of this had phased him. Like he hadn’t just been inside her, watching her unravel around him. "I don't need Carter taking me anywhere. I can make my own way back, thanks."

“Sweet dreams, Pia,” he murmured, voice dripping with something close to a challenge. “Try not to think about me too much.” And with that, he pushed open the car door and stepped out into the night.

there was a screech of the wheels came to a halt. she only just realised how long they had been circling the city and wasting time. of course there was every reason she had lost track of the minutes that went by considering she was tangled up in kai.

his scent was intoxicating, the lingering smell of cigarettes and liquor mixed with his cologne, now that she was in close proximity to him she could breathe in all in.

there were too many things about him that drove her absolutely insane, but apparently that feeling was addictive. "miss geller we are at the estate." she went quiet for a moment, and now she had a definitive reason to move herself off of him.

lifting herself up off his lap she looked away for w moment. she'd wanted him more than she'd ever wanted anyone before and that was the problem. the few layers of clothing she had on her body she was swift to return and maintain her somewhat presentable appearance not like she'd just been pleasured in the backseat of the town car. "well.. this is me..carter can take you wherever you need to go."

A low chuckle rumbled in his chest as he felt her trembling again, her body betraying her no matter how hard she tried to fight it. “Fuck, Pia,” he murmured, his voice thick with amusement, but there was something else there too—something more satisfied. “So sensitive.”

He watched her struggle to keep quiet, the way she bit her lip so hard it had to hurt. Like she actually thought she could control it. Like she thought he wouldn’t notice the way her body tightened around him, how she was already so far gone again.

Kai's hands slid over her thighs, slow and deliberate, just to feel the way she shuddered under his touch. “You’re really trying, huh?” he teased, fingers brushing up her spine before gripping her waist, keeping her exactly where he wanted her. “But I can still hear you.” His grip softened as she trembled against him, his fingers still stroking her gently, drawing out every last aftershock until she finally slumped forward, breathless, still pressed so perfectly into his lap like she wasn’t planning on moving any time soon.

well it was a good thing that no one could hear her, because with the way she felt so sensitive that they'd been together moments prior it didn't take long before she felt her legs trembling again. knowing exactly how to torment her at her most sensitive areas was a little unfair because she was desperate to feel that eruption again.

so she worked with him, angling her arm above the seat to have a better grip and it was a matter of seconds before she felt it again. this time it felt even better and came on so swiftly she felt her whole body contract with tingles.

she was sinking her teeth into her lower lip as to stop the flow of moans that were trying desperately to escape and eventually a few did slip when she wasn't focused so hard on it.

god, now she felt even more embarassed how she was just so needy for him seconds before. how she was still happily in his lap like he was going to tend to her every need all evening.

Kai chuckled, watching the exact moment her resolve snapped. There was no real fight left in her. He felt it in the way her body trembled, the way she moved against him, chasing something she wasn’t even trying to deny anymore.

"Thought we weren't doing this again", he murmured, voice thick with amusement, his hands guiding her hips with that lazy kind of confidence that always drove her insane.

Her breath hitched when he shifted beneath her, angling himself just right. He knew she was close, could feel it in the way her body clenched, in the little gasps she tried to swallow down.

His hand slipped between them as he continued to thrust into her, fingers finding the spot that made her whole body jolt. "There you go," he murmured, voice low and coaxing as he circled it with practised ease.

well she was a complete goner now wasn't she? she knew that some part of her was going to betray her and work against her words. she was moments away from caving entirely, to confessing that she needed him and how she actually didn't want this to end especially right this second.

but if tonight had taught her anything she wasn't going to be the person to led her guard down first AGAIN, so of course she was going to say she didn't want this, or him. the way he was looking up at her, he looked so incredibly delicious this was going to be difficult for her and she knew it.

the fact was as soon as he thrusted inside of her and she felt like every nerve ending in her body was about to erupt, she let go of her decision immediately. fuck it, she'll deal with the consequences later. that was future pia's problem. "fuck sake." she rolled her orbs with frustration but it was also mixed with pure lust.

she rocked harder this time, and the sensation that drove through her body was something else. the fact that he was the only guy to get her off, what was the harm in taking advantage of that just a little?

Kai couldn't help but chuckle at the way she tried to put on this tough front, acting like she was in control of the situation. He could see it, feel it—the way her body betrayed her words, how it still responded to him even after everything. That little shift of her hips, that bite of her lip, all of it told him exactly what she was thinking.

But he wasn’t about to let her off that easy. Not when she was clearly still tangled up in the aftermath of what they’d just shared.

He leaned forward just enough to tilt her chin up, his fingers grazing along her jawline as he locked eyes with her. "You can say whatever you want, but your body is telling me a different story, babe."

His voice was low, a soft growl, dripping with amusement and something else, something darker that she had ignited in him. He didn’t need to hear her say it. He could feel it—the way her breath hitched, the way her hands gripped his shoulders for balance. He didn’t have to try too hard to make her feel this way, just like she didn't with him.

“But don’t worry, princess. We can go our separate ways now. Like you said, it's out of our system, and we have no reason to speak again," he agreed, his thumb tracing the line of her bottom lip, just a hair’s breadth away from kissing her again.

Kai’s hands tightened around her hips, pulling her closer, making sure she could feel every inch of him, the way he was still hard inside of her.

He watched her closely, not waiting for her to give in but enjoying the struggle, the tension, and knowing that she was feeling everything, even if she was trying to lie to herself about it.

the fact his voice was almost soft in his projection it was weird that she was almost debating not telling him what was on her mind. the fact that she didn't want this to happen again. even though her body was arguing with her otherwise considering the amount of pleasure she'd felt with him, why would she give that up? but then she swiftly remembered this was kai she was talking about and there was no way she was giving him the satisfaction of knowing she wanted it again. even though.. she could very well have a benefits thing with him. maybe.

"just..thinking, realisation and all. very easy to get swept up in it all when you have no thoughts whatsoever but now i do."

she rocked back against him and it sent tingles down her spine, dammit. she was still ontop of him so of course it was still going to feel good and at this point she was really sensitive also.

"we are not doing this again." she looked up at him through thick eyelashes as she shook her head a fraction trying to remain strong. "and don't even think about pitching us having a solely benefits thing.. because no! no no no. we got it out of our systems considering tonight and now we are moving on."

of course he was the most attractive man on the planet to her at this moment in time especially. leant back in this slightly smug manner which his hands tight against her hips, his hair all out of place and this glow of satisfaction on his face. she wanted to make him have that look all the time if she could. infact, if things were simple she'd allow this happen all the time because he clearly knew what he was doing and how to treat her body in a way that saw stars.

she cleared her throat, repressing a moan because he felt good inside of her and god she wanted a round two, but considering this was kai.. was it worth admiting that?

she rolled her hips against, this time biting her lower lip as she felt him still very firmly inside and how much he pressed up against her sweet spot. oh, she was in trouble.

Kai let his head fall back against the seat, his chest rising and falling in deep, uneven breaths as he kept his hands firm on her hips. His fingers flexed against her sweat-damp skin, like he wasn’t quite ready to let go of the moment, of her.

His dark eyes dragged over her, drinking in the way she looked—thoroughly wrecked and completely undone, all because of him. That thought alone sent a smug satisfaction curling in his chest, but for once, he didn't voice it. Not yet. He just wanted to stay in this moment a little longer.

His thumb brushed absentmindedly over her hipbone, a stark contrast to the bruising grip he had on her minutes ago. She was still straddling him, still catching her breath, still looking like the most tempting thing he’d ever seen.

“Fuck,” he murmured, voice rough. “You’re something else, Pia.”

He smirked, but it wasn’t the usual cocky, teasing expression he usually wore. It was something lazier, more satisfied like he’d just discovered a brand-new way to ruin her and was already considering when he could do it again.

But as the silence stretched between them, he could feel the shift in the air. The reality of what they’d just done settling in. He could see it in the way her expression flickered, the way her fingers twitched like she was debating whether to move away from him or stay.

Kai tilted his head, his grip on her tightening just slightly. “What’s that look for?” His voice was still husky, but there was an edge of curiosity beneath it.

pia wouldn't say she was experienced as such, she had been with a few guys of course she wasn't completely new to being intimate but it tended to be with boyfriends, and those that she had been with for a while before taking that step. she built up that rupport with them and the trust level to move things forward and it was generally with someone she favoured.

with kai, it was a completely different ballgame altogether. ticking something off of her bucket list, she hadn't had sex in the town car before.. plus she didn't exactly LIKE kai and he definitely wasn't her boyfriend or someone she was romantically interested in. he was a hook up, a one night stand, a moment of passion. something she also had never done and yet here she was throwing caution to the damn wind.

his hands on her body made her feel like an absolute wildfire. every inch he touched she craved more. the way in which his voice was so thick with want and need and husk with lust had her dizzy. she enjoyed this magnetism they had between them, this heat that spurred them to this exact moment.

the only problem was it was all very well caught up in a moment, but that eventually had to end. she knew as soon as it did there would be some kind of cocky comment about how he'd got to fuck her and she was practically putty in his hand begging for it. miles away from how she was acting earlier.

when they both reached a peak of mutual satisfaction, pia was ontop of him with one hand on his shoulder and the other steadying her against the leather seat to be able to roll her hips effectively and hard enough to drive them both to their brinks. she had to admit it was good, amazing actually, beyond any passion she'd ever thought she could feel and of course he made her see absolute stars which was something a man had never done for her.

so this was what it was like to feel satisfied? she'd always thought sex was nice, and enjoyable to a point but she always knew there was more to it, that she could feel even better, it was just finding the right guy to get her there.

her breath was ragged, she had a shine of sweat on her forehead and rosy cheeks. her lips were a bitten shade of bright red and her hair was over her shoulders as she panted. she let it sink in for a moment, deciding whether or not she should move just yet.

Ruby rolled her eyes, but the smirk on her lips was impossible to hide. This idiot.

She shut the window behind him, arms still crossed as she turned to face him. “You’re telling me you just realized you’re scared of heights? Mid-air?” She huffed out a laugh, shaking her head. “You have zero self-preservation, King.”

But she couldn’t ignore the fact that he was standing right there in her room. His skin still chilled from the night air, his breathing a little uneven from the climb, his hair even more of a mess than usual—and that grin? That cocky, satisfied, damn near proud of himself grin? It was driving her crazy.

Her fingers absentmindedly played with the hem of her oversized tee as his gaze swept over her, lingering just enough to send heat straight to her stomach.

She raised a brow. “You scale a building, nearly plummet to your death, and that’s your first observation?”

His next words had her heart skipping a beat. Her breath caught for half a second before she recovered, tilting her head, challenging him. “Oh? And what exactly do you want to do to me, King?”

She took a slow step forward, closing some of the space between them, just to see if he’d back down. If he’d fumble. If this whole reckless, impulsive, sexy-as-hell stunt had left him speechless now that he was finally here.

there was every chance he could have absolutely lost his mind at this point. sure, some girls might find it flattering and almost romantic that he climbed (against his better judgement and fears) to her windowsill. what if she thought it was corny or she was content with the messages exchanged between them and him being there was too much? of course these thoughts entered his mind as he was hovered right by the edge of her blacked out window, where he could just seem very minimum streams of light where she must have had her lamp still on.

his hands were aching a little from the rough texture of the wood, much more from the gripping onto the tiling and with his adrenaline absolutely off the charts right now he waited, hoping she wasn't going to be long and would answer him.

he was almost trembling with the brisk contrast of the temperature outside compared to the comfort of his bedroom, but when she finally noticed him he grinned like a cheshire cat from ear to ear. "fancy seeing you here.." he joked, having a slight chuckle to himself as he gazed up at her.

once she ordered him to come inside before he hurt himself further he gripped his hand over the top of the frame and slipped himself through, minding his head as he stepped into her bedroom. "and to note i am actually scared of heights which i didn't really notice until i was trying to leap from the branches to your roof, which is very inconveniencing, they should have planned that better in placement exactly for this moment but hey!" he exhaled a shaky breath as he put his hands on his hips.

"cute tee." he gestured to the lack of fabric on her body at this point. "you really think you could text me and i wouldn't have an answer for you? especially when we are grazing the subject of what i want to do to you."

Kai let out a low chuckle, the sound dark and full of something dangerously satisfied as he took in her confession. His hands, firm and unrelenting, skimmed up her thighs, pressing into the softness of her skin like he wanted to memorize every inch of her beneath his fingertips.

“Oh, I think I do,” he murmured against her lips, voice rough with restrained hunger. “But I like hearing you say it.”

His jacket was already gone, tossed somewhere in the car without a second thought. He let her push up his shirt, her touch igniting a fire under his skin, but he didn’t let her take control for long. His grip tightened on her hips, dragging her down against him.

“You want me, huh?” His breath was warm against her neck as he nipped at her skin, savouring the way she shivered beneath him. “Then show me.”

There was something maddening about the way she smelled—sweet but dark, like temptation wrapped in silk. He buried his face against her neck for a moment, inhaling the scent of vanilla and musk mixed with something purely her. It was enough to make his head spin.

His lips traced a slow, deliberate path along her jaw before capturing her mouth again, this time deeper, hungrier. He swallowed the soft sound she made, letting it fuel the fire burning between them.

Fingers trailed up the curve of her spine, finding the delicate knot at the nape of her neck. With a slow, deliberate tug, he loosened the tie of her halter top, letting the fabric slip effortlessly from her skin. Pia was unlike anyone he’d ever met—unpredictable, sharp-tongued, and undeniably intoxicating.

Kai leaned back slightly, his gaze raking over her with a hunger that sent heat pooling low in his stomach. His tongue darted out to wet his lips as his eyes drank her in—every curve, every dip of her body now exposed to him. The dim lighting cast shadows that only made her look more intoxicating, her skin glowing with the warmth of their shared heat.

His hands skimmed down her sides, slow and purposeful, like he was committing every inch of her to memory. Lust burned in his stare, dark and unrelenting, as he took his time admiring her, dragging his fingers over her bare skin like he couldn't believe she was real.

"Fuck," he murmured, his voice rough, thick with desire. "You're perfect."

of course the way in which he handled her didn't surprise her one bit. for her to think for a second that he would be gentle and tender was an amusing thought. he or course took no time in taking back the power and switching up their position so she was ontop of him now. my, what a view. he was going to be dangerous for her in more ways than one, she knew it. the fact was she had never encountered anyone like him before, especially the way he was with her from the way they spoke to eachother to the escalation of an ongoing game of metaphorical chess. that was until this point, and pia had decided to throw away all the pieces, completely scrap the whole thing and toss it to the side.

now she knew she was somewhat admiting that she did indeed crave him, but then she was also in the know that he felt the same way about her. it was at this point she was thankful that she paid attention to the neccesary details of being a girl when it came to being intimate. for one making sure she was soft to the touch, moisturised with a very delicious lotion that was a mix of vanilla and musk, like a woody cupcake, even her shampoo was a gourmand scent like suntan lotion with that hint of chocolate and a dash of dark chocolate. she also was wearing a matching set, something that was completely coincidental because she did not intend to hook up with anyone.

truth be told she didn't do the whole one night stand thing so that was definitely saying something when it came to kai and prompting her spontaneous actions. infact, the way she acted tonight was something she didn't make a habit of due to the company she kept. that was until that pain in the ass bad boy came into the picture.

once their lips reunited she tugged at the fabric of his jacket, encouraging it off as she guided it over his arms to help with the undressing process and to be faster. she wanted to go down to his pants but for now she slid her hand underneath the fabric of his top, feeling his skin against her fingertips.

"fuck, you have no idea how much i want you." an admission she would definitely deny in the future but for now she was sure he would love to hear her confession as she parted from the kiss with a heavy exhale of breath.

She sat there waiting for her phone to ping with King's reply, and with every passing second, her stomach hurt a little more. Had she scared him off? Ruby nearly jumped out of her skin at the sudden knock on her window.

Her heart lurched in her chest as she whipped around, eyes wide, expecting—well, she wasn’t sure what she was expecting. But it definitely wasn’t King, crouched on her damn roof like some reckless idiot with a smug expression on his face.

She pulled on a long, baggy t-shirt to cover herself up and then rushed to the window, her pulse racing for so many reasons.

"What the fuck, King?!" she whisper-hissed, quickly unlocking the latch and yanking it open. "Are you actually insane?"

Up close, she could see the way his chest rose and fell a little faster than normal, the adrenaline probably still running through him from his stunt. His hair was tousled—more than usual—and the glow from her room cast shadows over his face, making him look even more unfairly good-looking than he had any right to be.

And then she realized.

He actually climbed up here. For her.

Her stomach flipped.

She crossed her arms, feigning irritation, but the smile tugging at her lips betrayed her. "What on earth made you decide it was a good idea to scale my house? What if you fell, dumbass?"

She stepped back, making room for him. "Get inside before you break your neck."

Her voice was stern, but the way she looked up at him through her eyelashes, the way her body hummed from the tension between them? Yeah… She wasn’t that mad.

there was a large amount of time that passed, and in the back of his mind he was sure that ruby was panicking somewhat that he had ghosted her. the last thing he wanted was to make her feel insecure or even upset in anyway but he had a plan. now, he was pretty good at climbing, however scaling a building was an interesting one.

she had a tree outside her window so once he was to the top, and completely ignoring any gnawing doubt because it was actually quite high now he was there, now all he had to do was step to the edge of a branch (without it snapping under his weight) and hop onto the roof.

he managed to leap the other side, gripping tightly to the textured tiling. he leant to the side and knocked on her window with his closed fist. "ruby.." he almost shouted but he was trying to be quiet so they both wouldn't get caught.

this was actually the most he had done for a girl so this was saying something. it was actually quite the gesture. but he realised whilst messaging her that words couldn't really convey how he was feeling in the moment.

Kai let out a low chuckle, the kind that rumbled deep in his chest, his hands already finding their way to her hips as she settled into his lap. Of course, she wasn’t going to just give in so easily—she had to tease, had to make him work for it. But two could play that game.

His fingers gripped at her waist, steadying her as she rolled her hips against him, that single motion already sending a sharp spark of heat down his spine. He could feel his already tight jeans getting that much tighter. His breath hitched, but he covered it with a smirk, tilting his head slightly as her lips ghosted over his skin, leaving a trail of warmth in their wake.

"Careful, princess," he murmured, his voice rougher now, his grip tightening slightly. "You might start something you can’t handle."

Her lips at his collarbone sent a shiver down his spine, the soft pull of her teeth making his jaw clench. He exhaled sharply, his hands sliding up her thighs before gripping the curve of her ass, pulling her in closer, making sure she could feel exactly what she was doing to him.

And then, in one swift motion, he flipped their positions, pinning her against the cool leather of the seat beneath them, his body pressing flush against hers. His lips hovered just over hers, his breath warm, teasing, but not giving in just yet.

Kai's hand trailed up, tangling in her golden hair as he pulled her head back just enough to meet his gaze. Her lips were parted, pupils blown wide, and that smug little smirk was still playing at the corners of her mouth.

His lips crashed into hers before she could say anything else. It wasn’t soft or careful—it was raw, fueled by everything they’d been dancing around all night. He poured every ounce of frustration, of jealousy, of pure fucking need into it.

it was cute that he was acting naive, like he didn't know the reason that they were in this situation, in the back of a town car with plenty of space and privacy for them to do as they pleased. she knew he was just teasing her but it didn't make it any less.. annoying? was that the right word for it?

after everything they had been through this evening it was no longer they were in the situation that they were. she wasn't about to fire any quippy comments his way, she was just going to roll completely on instinct and at this point very high intense chemistry.

it was brimming over the edge, and whilst pia was very frustrated and annoyed at him at the same time she really just wanted to silence him and atleast this was a mututally beneficial way.

she didn't answer his question just arched her eyebrow in a way that seamlessly said that he knows what is about to happen. she chucked her jacket to the side as it sprawled over the seats opposite them and then stood herself up so she could face him and comfortably slide herself into his lap.

with one leg over, the other soon followed to clamp at the side of his hips, purposefully grinding and rolling her hips against his crotch. "i think the question is what are YOU going to do with me?"

she leant her head down, her breath tickling at his lips as if she was about to capture theirs but instead she dipped to the crook of his neck, planting soft kisses to begin with and then alternating nips and sucking against his collarbone surely leaving a mark or two.

Kai had spent the last ten minutes leaning against the wall outside, rolling a cigarette between his fingers but never lighting it. He didn’t need it—his nerves were already buzzing, his head already clouded with the scent of her, the weight of their last conversation still pressing against his chest.

And then she appeared.

The town car pulled up like something out of a movie, sleek and dark, a sharp contrast to the warm glow of the streetlights. The window lowered just enough for him to catch the glint in her eyes, that look—knowing, challenging, absolutely fucking intoxicating.

"Get in. Now."

His lips twitched. He should make a comment, something smug about how demanding she was, how she thought she could snap her fingers and he’d come running. Instead, he just tossed the unlit cigarette to the ground and stepped forward, pulling the door open fully before sliding in beside her.

The door shut with a quiet click, sealing them inside, away from the world. The low hum of music filled the space between them. He wasn't used to this kind of luxury. It almost made him a little uncomfortable, but instead, he tried to keep his focus on her.

Kai turned to her, his body angled slightly, one arm resting against the back of the seat as his dark eyes flickered over her face, lingering on her lips.

"So," he drawled, voice low, thick with something unspoken. "What exactly do you plan on doing with me now that you've got me all to yourself?" The male asked, back to teasing her.

all evening she had been first in line to his quippy little comments and actions, it had been an endless cycle of them trying to fluster one another and it had worked especially for pia. she knew that earlier, despite his words that he was envious which is why he kept such a keen eye on her and her every move. she loved that he didn't falter in his gaze, that he was first row at the show that they had created. every move she made was purposeful for his amusement, and with every moment that went by with them one upping one another, it had now come tumbling down.

she wanted him, god did she ever. she couldn't stop thinking about the way his body felt against her own, how he reacted to her, how that low moan sprung out of him as they kissed. she needed him like she'd never needed anyone before. no other male she had met had made her feel a fraction of emotions that he seemed to in a matter of hours.

she couldn't stop thinking about him, feeling the ghost of his lips tingling against her own, the smell of his cologne still inbedded in her senses. the way his touch was firm but gentle all at the same time. even that look in his orbs when he was clearly up to no good. she wanted to keep all of it going, on a loop, over and over again.

yet he managed to say a few words and it all unravelled and he had convinced her that if she DID kiss someone else now he wouldn't actually do anything to stop it and that made her feel stupid for even entertaining the idea.

she exhaled a breath as she looked back at him, her expression was unreadable at this point, what could she be thinking about? she tapped a few letters on her keyboard of her phone and then shot a glance back up to him.

"meet me outside in 10. don't be late."

and with that she was gone, returning ten minutes later as promised outside with her town car. she had instructed the driver to loop around the city, put up the tinted window in the middle and to make sure everything was sound proof and with music playing in the background. she opened the door a fraction giving him a knowing look.

"get in. now."

Kai’s smirk faltered the second he saw the shift in her expression. He hadn’t expected that. He’d meant to rile her up, to keep their game going, not—whatever this was. Not her shutting down, withdrawing, like he’d just snuffed out the fire between them with a careless flick of his wrist.

His jaw tensed, watching her clutch her jacket, the way her lips pressed together like she was trying to hold back more than just words.

“Pia—” His voice came out rougher than he intended, but she was already looking away, already dismissing him, already convincing herself that this was over. And that—God, that didn’t sit right with him.

Before she could take a step, he reached for her wrist again, this time gentler, more deliberate. “That’s not what I meant.” A sigh left him, low and sharp, like he hated having to say this out loud. “You think I don’t—” He stopped himself, exhaling through his nose. His grip tightened just slightly, not enough to keep her there if she really wanted to go, but enough to make her listen.

“I don’t want her, you've got to know that” he admitted, quieter now, but no less intense. “We've been playing these games all night. I don’t get jealous. I don’t—” He ran a hand through his hair, looking away for half a second before locking his gaze back onto hers, something raw flickering beneath the frustration. “But then you make an appearance here in this shitty little club where you clearly stand out, and suddenly, I’m throwing punches in bars and watching every move you make like a fucking idiot.”

His tongue darted out to wet his lips as his grip on her wrist loosened, fingers dragging down her arm before dropping away completely. His expression hardened again, but not before she caught the ghost of something else—something vulnerable, something unguarded.

“So yeah. Go back inside if that's what you want. Go find someone else to dance with.” He tilted his head slightly, dark eyes scanning her face like he memorised it. “But don’t stand here and act like it's not you that I want to take home with me tonight. That’s bullshit, and we both know it.”

of course he was going to twist it to his advantage. couldn't just outwardly admit that he was envious about the fact that she was close to another male, and that she let him kiss her as well. the fact was pia was a pretty confident person, she knew she was fortunate to be graced with good looks and she was content in herself and her own skin, however kai definitely made that waver.

the fact was, his comment didn't make her want to go out there and kiss someone else just to see if he was bluffing, oh no, it made her feel withdrawn instead. he'd officially put a stop to their little game in one fleeting sentence and he didn't even realise it. now she felt dejected and not to mention that she was even more furious with him than she was earlier, which she didn't think was possible.

"oh okay.. fine, have it your way.. you hit him because he was an asshole, right.. cos he was dancing with me, because you didn't seem to know him so that's not a very credible answer. but i am done, kai.. made it clear that i'm not exactly desireable anymore, so i'll save myself embarassment and quit while i'm ahead, hmm?"

she curved her jacket over her arm, her nostrils flaring with clear irritation as she looked away from him for a moment, lips pursed.

"have fun with your peppy little date over there."

Kai let out a slow, sharp breath through his nose, his jaw tightening as he stared down at her. She was enjoying this—his reaction, his jealousy, the fact that he lost control because of her. And fuck, he knew she was playing him, winding him up just to watch him snap.

His heart was hammering beneath her teasing fingers, but he didn’t move her hand away. Instead, he smirked—dark, dangerous, full of something wicked.

“You think I’m jealous?” His voice was low, gravelly, as he stepped in even closer, closing the space between them until her back nearly hit the wall. “You think I saw him touching you and lost my mind because I wished it was me?” His head tilted slightly, his lips brushing just barely along the shell of her ear, his breath hot against her skin.

His fingers curled under her chin, tilting her face up so she had no choice but to look at him. His gaze was fire and fury, an intoxicating mix of frustration and desire.

“Don’t flatter yourself, princess,” he murmured, his lips ghosting over hers without fully kissing her, teasing her with the proximity. “I didn’t hit him because I was jealous.” And then, just to drive her insane, just to make her crave it—he pulled back, the ghost of a smirk playing at his lips, waiting to see just how much she could take before she snapped.

“I hit him because he was an asshole,” Kai said, voice steady, like he actually believed his own words. His fingers brushed along her wrist, the same hand she’d pressed against his chest, his touch deliberate—light enough to be teasing, firm enough to prove a point. His lips curled into a smirk, one that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “But if you wanna keep playing this little game, by all means… go find someone else to kiss. See if I stop you this time.”

did she expect him to punch the guy? no. not in the slightest. she thought he may just looked seething or even try and kiss his little temptress dancing infront of him but no he swung his fist at the man she was entangled with.. or was atleast.

to say she was surprised and shocked at the same time was an understatement. she stood there for a second wide eyed before she was being dragged off in the opposite direction back to the familiar area they were in before this scene unfolded.

she was a bit perplexed by his actions, but did the rush continue? why yes it did. she loved that he wanted her so much that seeing her with another man drove him insane. even his tone was rough and she liked that also. the mix of emotions dancing in his eyes had her hooked.

"he was not an asshole.. and he had every right to do so, i am a consenting adult and i am not anyones property."

she added emphasis on the last word because she certainly felt like his at the moment but the fact was she liked the possessive nature of his.

"drove you crazy didn't it? seeing his hands on my body.. his lips against my skin? getting me to feel things that you couldn't.."

she gazed up at him with this mischeivious glint in her eyes as her hand shifted to press against his chest, just over where his heart was, and fiddled with the top of his shirt.

"i didn't ask you to hit anyone. that was your own decision. jealousy get the better of you?"

Ruby’s breath hitched as the photo loaded on her screen, her fingers tightening around her phone. Oh, shit. She hadn’t expected that. Sure, they’d been dancing around this line all night, but King had just bulldozed straight through it. A slow, warm flush crept up her neck, her heart thudding just a little harder than she wanted to admit.

She exhaled, biting down on her lip as she stared at the screen. Part of her knew she should call it now, maybe tease him and leave him hanging—but the other part? The part that liked how unfiltered he was being? Yeah, that part was very much intrigued.

Wish you were here.

That made her stomach flip in a way she hadn’t prepared for. Ruby stared at the screen, her pulse thrumming in her ears. She wasn’t entirely sure what she was doing anymore—what they were doing—but she couldn’t bring herself to stop. Not when her body was still buzzing from his last message, from the image of him, from the way he had no hesitation when it came to showing her exactly what was on his mind.

Text to King: Damn, King. You're getting me all hot and bothered over here Text: As for what I was wearing?

She shifted slightly, pulling the covers back so her body was on show. Angling the shot just right—to show her the black lingerie hugging the curves of her body, the lace outlining the curve of her breast. She didn’t show too much, just a taste. A hint of what he was asking for.

Text: (sends photo) Text: And if you’re thinking about me, King…

She let that hang, teasing, before sending one last message.

Text: What exactly are you thinking about?

king's next move probably wasn't one that either of them anticipated but he decided to go ahead and do it anyway. he was somewhat paranoid that it was going to put her off entirely, but at the same time with how this had been building up so far, what could go wrong? he shifted on his bed, moving to the edge as he feet hit the floor. he'd caught sight of her moving around in her window and it was at this point he sent the next text with little thought.

text: (sends her a picture of his hands in his boxers around something that was clearly hard)

it had been a while since someone had made his heart race the way she did, it was the complete uncertainty of this considering most girls he knew where he stood with them, but ruby was a whole different ball game.

text: i'll take texting over shadows in your window anyday.

and he meant it, because despite their closer proximity he couldn't entirely make out what she was doing, to the full extent that he wanted to either and it was killing him.

text: so what was it you were wearing?

text: i didn't get to fully appreciate it.

text: i am thinking about you..wish you were here.

Kai saw red.

One second, he was watching Pia put on a damn show, her every move calculated to get under his skin. The next, some guy was pulling her in, pressing his lips against hers like he had any damn right.

Before he even processed it, Kai was moving. He wasn’t the type to make a scene—well, not really—but this? This was a fucking joke. His fist connected with the guy’s jaw in a clean, sharp punch, sending him stumbling back. The music didn’t even drown out the collective gasps around them, but Kai didn’t care. His knuckles ached, his pulse hammered in his ears, and his sharp gaze cut to Pia before she could react.

“Enough.” His voice was low, firm, leaving no room for argument.

Without hesitation, he grabbed her wrist, his grip possessive but not painful, and pulled her through the sea of bodies. He didn’t stop until the cool night air hit them, the bass from inside now a distant thrum behind the slam of the door.

He finally let go of her hand, dragging a rough hand through his dark hair as he took a deep breath, trying to rein himself in. His knuckles stung, but he didn’t care. He turned to face her, his stormy eyes locking onto hers with a mixture of frustration, heat, and something deeper he wasn’t ready to name.

“You wanna play games? Fine. But don’t expect me to just stand there while some asshole puts his hands on you like that.” His voice was rough, his usual teasing edge nowhere to be found.

He stepped closer, towering over her slightly, his jaw clenched. “Tell me you didn’t want me to do that,” he challenged, searching her expression, daring her to lie.

to say that pia had never experienced this kind of tension was an understatement. the level in which they were meticulously taking a step ahead before the other caught up to them. she didn't really want to dance, especially with this guy but at the same time was she going to let kai have the satisfaction of knowing that he was getting to her? oh, absolutely not.

she rolled her hips, shifting her body so she was now facing away from him as she shifted in a way she was sure was going to get a physical reaction from her dance partner any second now. she effortlessly moved so she was all the way down to the floor and then glided her way back up, extending her long legs to standing as she wrapped her arms around the male's neck.

she was aware what he was doing, and if she would let her guard down and the true emotions spill out it would show she was quite irritated in that moment. the fact that this girl in his grip was so gorgeous, and peppy, and obviously completely intoxicated by him. did she wish it was her? of course she did.

she knew this wasn't very healthy behaviour, acting in this way of one upping another. and yet she couldn't stop herself so she shifted her head to whisper into this guys ear and he began pressing kisses to her neck as he tucked her hair behind her ear.

for a moment she could pretend it was kai, and block out the rest of the world but her eyes bounced back to him with this glitter in her orbs like she was trying to prove something and bit her lip. this guy was obviously feeling ballsy and pulled her in for a kiss, admitedly his lips didn't taste like the ghost of a cigarette and liquor but she welcomed it for the purpose of this game.

Ruby’s breath caught in her throat as she read his messages. A mix of emotions ran through her—surprise, amusement, and something else she couldn’t quite place. He wasn’t holding back, that was for sure. The compliment hit her harder than she expected, her heart giving an unexpected flutter at his words. She quickly looked back out her window, her gaze lingering on his figure again.

She hadn’t expected him to be so blunt. The fact that he was honest, really honest, left her in this weird mix of flattered and a little bit unsure. And the way he’d just gone there with his honesty about the guy she liked—well, that hit a little too close to home.

She typed slowly, feeling an odd mix of things she didn’t want to admit to herself.

Text to King: Well, damn. Text: You really have a way with words, don't you? I don't know what to say... honestly, I'm flattered I just didn't think I was your type. Text: And you really want me to shut them?

With a smirk tugging at her lips, she stood from the bed, stretching lazily as she moved toward the window. She slipped out of her skirt and slowly took her top off, too, leaving her clad in the lacey black lingerie, knowing full well that the glow from her lap would make the scene visible enough to catch his attention.

As she approached the curtains she let her body shift and sway, knowing his eyes would likely be on her through the window, and with a teasing grin, she dramatically slid the curtains closed before making her way back to her bed picking her phone back up before sliding under her covers.

Text: Sorry, remind me again, what's only fair? Text: Also, you want honesty? I’m not exactly sure what's going on with him. He is normally interested, so I was surprised he didn't reply.

Literally seconds after she sent the message to King, the guy in question decided to finally reply. Ruby bit her lip, feeling a bit awkward with the situation she now seemed to be in. Her fingers hovered over his message, debating whether to open it.

king settled back on his bedspread, deciding to abandon his shirt for now. after a few seconds of staring up at the wall he saw her response and frowned a little. he guessed it was time to be honest, now as good of a time as any.

text: ruby, i'm a guy.. and i'm not blind, you are beyond gorgeous, from the way you tuck your hair behind your ear, to the way you strutt to class, to the way your legs look in a skirt, hell your smile is even gorgeous. the fact is, if this guy isn't messaging you back immediately he better have a good excuse because i am fucking crumbling over here.

text: i also sent what you asked.. so it's only fair, right?

he lifted his head a fraction, a smile tugging at his lips as he could just about see her in her bedroom.

text: you know i can see you right? you need to shut your curtains.

Kai’s eyes narrowed, watching the way she moved on the dance floor, even though he didn’t want to admit that it was getting under his skin. She was trying so damn hard not to let him get to her, but the way she kept glancing his way, the subtle tension in her movements—it wasn’t lost on him. He saw her with that guy, felt the knot twist in his stomach the moment he noticed them getting closer.

He knew exactly what she was doing. The way she pressed against him, the look she was giving him, as if she was putting on a show just for him. But what got to him wasn’t just the fact that she was doing it—it was the fact that it was working.

He gripped the edge of his glass tighter, the coolness of it doing nothing to calm the heat in his chest. Of course she was playing that game. What bothered him was the fact that she cared about how much he was watching.

The longer he watched her move with him, the more the tension in him built. It was a sick little game they were both playing, but Kai wasn’t going to let her win it so easily. He let the guy make his move, let him think he had any chance, and for the briefest moment, he considered going over there to wreck the whole damn thing.

But that’s when he stopped. No. He wasn’t the one who needed to prove anything here. She did.

Kai watched the guy’s hands settle on Pia’s hips, and for a moment, a flicker of irritation burned in his gut. But instead of letting it get to him, he forced a casual grin, tossed back the rest of his drink, and made a decision.

With a glance over at the bar, he noticed a girl with dark, wavy hair, a sultry smile, and a look of curiosity in her eyes as she watched him. Kai gave her a small nod, one eyebrow raised slightly in silent invitation. She smiled back, an almost knowing glint in her gaze, before taking a few steps in his direction.

Without a word, Kai stood up, adjusting the leather jacket on his shoulders, and made his way through the crowd. The music pulsed louder now, and as he reached the brunette, he pulled her into a smooth, confident twirl. Her body pressed against his, and he didn’t miss the way she looked up at him, impressed by his effortless charm.

Kai grinned, the tension in his chest easing for a moment. As they danced, he kept his gaze flicking back toward Pia, watching her from the corner of his eye. The moment he’d stood up, she must’ve noticed him moving toward the other girl, and the subtle satisfaction on his face only grew as he waited for her reaction. She wouldn’t like this, not one bit.

He let himself get lost in the rhythm for a moment, but his attention never strayed too far from her.

of course she clocked his attempt to make her jealous, the little act he put on to add a touch of physical contact. she loathed that it made her jealous, made a twist in her stomach at his actions wishing that his hands were gliding over her skin instead. she thought considering vince's failed attempt to held her with her shot that he would step in and show her how it is done but then again after the whole finessing she did indeed pot the ball anyway.

it was at this point she was trying not to pay any attention to him but it was getting increasingly difficult. when her friend gracie insisted that they come over to dance pia followed suit, joining the sea of people moving to the more energetic song. of course a few minutes into dancing and a guy had approached her asking if he could join. had been a long time since she'd been asked so points for politeness and he was good looking enough so she nodded as if to express what she didn't say outloud.

he asked her various questions about herself and as they got closer and closer she was pressed against him in a similar position to how she was with kai moments prior. the way her body moved against him she knew what she was doing because she had an audience and with his hands on her hips it just made it all the more sweeter.

Ruby’s eyes flicked to the window, her attention suddenly pulled by movement across the way. She froze, her breath catching in her throat as she saw King move through his bedroom. He was right there, just a few feet away, and for a moment, it felt like the world had slowed down.

She could make out the shadows of him moving around, his figure shifting in the dim light, and—shit—she realized she could see him perfectly. The window between them might have been a few yards apart, but right now, it felt like he was only a breath away.

Her pulse quickened, suddenly self-conscious, like he might have somehow known she was watching. She quickly looked away, but not before catching a glimpse of him stripping off his shirt. The image from the photo flashed in her mind, and she couldn’t help but feel her heart race a little faster.

Her fingers tightened around her phone, but she didn’t say anything immediately. She just sat there for a moment, trying to keep her cool, but the reality of what had just unfolded—and what was unfolding right in front of her—was starting to sink in.

She glanced back out the window, but now, she was really aware of how close they were.

Ruby’s eyes widened when the picture came through, her breath catching in her throat. She hadn’t expected him to be quite so… confident with it. She’d known King was always bold, but this? This was something else.

She leaned back against her pillows, her pulse unexpectedly racing. He was definitely playing his part in this game, no doubt about it. She’d asked for it, after all. She bit her lip, trying not to smile, but then his next message hit her, making her pause.

Text to King: Laughing at you? I’m not that cruel. You're my friend, and I wouldn't do that to you. Plus, from what I'm looking at, there's nothing here to laugh at. You can't really tell me you don't know how hot you are.

She stared at the picture again, trying to ignore the little part of her that was actually impressed with the whole thing. God, he knew how to make a show of it.

Text: And no, I’m not showing it to anyone. This is just for me.

Ruby quickly typed, her fingers hovering over the keys for a second before committing to her response.

Text: Why would I do that? I’m more curious about why you’re doing this. I just never really thought you were interested.

text: two secs

he shot up from his bed faster than he had for a lot of things as he stood infront of his long casted mirror. admitedly the lighting wasn't the best but he still could take a decent photo. he yanked the fabric of his shirt of his head as his hair dishevelled from the motion. it had gotten long, but he didn't dislike it actually, he always didn't feel like himself when it was cut right back anyway. turning himself at an angle he took a photo in the mirror, gazing back at it seconds later. yeah.. that'll do, and it was what she asked for.

text: (sends picture)

text: i am curious though.. you have never shown any interest in me like this before, how do i know you're not laughing at me over there? or planning to show this picture to all your girlfriends?

couldn't blame the guy for being paranoid, she was way out of his league and he had accepted that a long time ago which is why she remained her slightly annoying, cocky neighbour.

Kai leaned back in his seat, watching Pia with an amused smirk as she worked her angles, doing everything she could to get his attention. And she was good—he'd give her that. Every movement was deliberate, every little glance designed to make sure he saw her. But what she didn’t realize was that the more she tried to provoke him, the more he enjoyed not reacting. He knew the game, and he wasn’t going to make it easy for her.

Then the guy she was with got closer to her. Kai's lips curled into a mocking smile as he watched the male slide up behind her, his hands awkwardly reaching over her to help with her shot. Seriously? The guy had no finesse. He was fumbling around like an amateur, trying to make it look like he was helping, when really, he was just looking for an excuse to get closer.

Kai rolled his eyes so dramatically that he almost looked like he was going to strain something. Lame. Completely lame. If this guy had any real game, he wouldn't need to do the tired old "let me help you with that" act. But, of course, Pia seemed to be eating it up. Typical.

Kai wasn’t bothered—at least, he was trying his hardest not to look like he was. He casually picked up his phone and scrolled for a moment, then leaned in toward the waitress at the bar, just enough to make sure Pia noticed. A low chuckle, a slow, deliberate touch to her back as if he hadn’t even thought about it. Not even looking at Pia, but knowing she was watching him.

Finally, he took a sip from his glass and ensured his gaze landed back on her. Slowly, he lifted his drink in a taunting cheers as his smirk grew wider. But when he saw the look in her eyes, a small thrill went through him. She wasn’t as indifferent as she was trying to act.

And just for fun, he let his eyes flicker briefly to male—his face unreadable, but that same irritation in the pit of his stomach. The guy was desperate. But Kai? Kai was happy enough to watch her show a little longer.

it's almost like she could sense his little struggles of dialogue going on in his head at her actions. luckily for her this wasn't going to get very awkward because vince was someone who didn't get surprised by her actions anymore. she could clock him from the corner of her eye, knowing that he had chose to sit where he did to be in direct line of the show she was putting on.

she moved her fore arm to show the male opposite her the newest work she'd gotten etched onto her tanned skin, making sure to dip her other arm so that it emphasised the cleavage she already had on display. she knew how to work her angles, she was a model after all she did it everyday. and she knew what to do to get the shot, and she was going to continue to move herself in subtle ways that would draw kai's eyes to certain parts of her body.

sweeping her golden hair over her shoulders to display her neck she slid herself over the top of the table to take a shot. she knew she was pretty good at pool, growing up being a daddy's girl and having the boys around she got to do things like this alot and it paid off later on in life. she leant her chest forward over the table, her eyes bouncing to him for a moment then back to the shot she was taking just as vince decided to wonder behind her. "here, move a little.." he started to say as he leant over her body to guide her.

Ruby stared at the screen, her heart doing this annoying little stutter at his words. What do you want?

It was a simple enough question, but the way King asked it—so direct, so confident, like he was already anticipating her answer—made something tighten in her stomach.

She exhaled, rolling onto her side, the glow of her lamp casting long shadows on her wall. Part of her wanted to brush him off, to act like this wasn’t getting to her. But another part? Another part liked the way he was talking, the way he seemed genuinely offended on her behalf.

Text to King: Right? Tell me about it. You’d think at the very least, I’d get a damn reaction.

She hesitated, then added:

Text: Not that I care. Obviously.

Which was a lie, but she wasn’t about to let King know that her ego was so easily damaged.

Her eyes flicked back to his last message, and she couldn’t help but picture him—lying there...

Text: Y'know, I don't think I've ever seen your body... A shirtless picture wouldn't hurt for starters

text: what do you want?

he asked without a second thought because king was a pretty confident guy atleast in himself, and he trusted that she wasn't going to share it with anyone. not that he would mind if she happened to because like he'd said he prided himself on thr way he looked.

text: you sent him THAT and he left you on read?? amazes me. does matter what i was doing i would atleast send you a damn emoji.

text: not very curteous of him.. jackass.

he shifted a fraction for a moment, preparing himself to have to remove some more clothing again or have to move into a different position with better lighting depending on how this conversation went.

text: like i said, what do you want in return?

Kai exhaled sharply, watching her go with an amused scoff. Oh, she was gonna play it like that? Cute. Real cute.

He leaned back against the wall, taking out another cigarette and lighting it. He took a slow drag of it, pretending he wasn’t watching her the whole damn time. But he was. Of course, he was. He caught the way she wove through the crowd, sliding right back into her world like she hadn’t just been pressed against him, all breathless and wanting.

Then he saw it—the little act she was putting on. The way she leaned into the guy, all soft laughs and delicate touches. Oh, you are such a piece of work, princess. She was doing it on purpose. Not for the other guy. Not for anyone else. For him.

Kai smirked, shaking his head. Fine. If she wanted to play games, he’d play. He took his time finishing his cigarette, flicking the ashes to the ground before making his way back inside, shoulders loose, expression unreadable.

He didn’t go to her—no, that would be too easy. Instead, he slid into a booth near the bar, his arm draping over the back of the seat as he flagged down a server for another drink. He made sure he was in her line of sight, made sure she knew he was watching, but made no move to approach.

Let her have her fun. Let her think she had the upper hand.

it's like she was in a hypnotic state, her hues gazing up into his own. he was a fair amount taller than her, but not enough in her heeled boots than it was difficult for her to capture his lips, she just needed to crane her neck a fraction. of course she felt the spark, the fire that was uncontrollable whenever they touched but she was not about to give him the satisfaction of caving to her desires once more. the fact that he'd pulled her back, the way it which he tugged at her wrist she felt this rush as their bodies were reunited. every guy she'd dated had been afraid of her, intimidated in a way or the other way and just wary that she could break like she was this fragile little doll. it occurred to her this was not the case with kai, he didn't care about her name, well.. he didn't to a point because his assumptions and preconceptions were the start of this lovely interaction which led them to here and now.

"maybe. or it might just be because i didn't enjoy it, glad it was over actually."

oh she was suchhhh a liar but she couldn't help it, because giving him what he wanted was the last thing she intended to do right now and she was digging her heels in about it. she turned on her heel to to back inside now that he had released his grip and reunited with her friends once more. they were playing a game of pool and she was somewhat interested to see who was winning. the tabloids on more than one occasion had caught photos of her and her close friend vince and the specultated they were dating however she had always denied it.

in this case she saw it as a golden opportunity to show a side of herself that would catch kai's attention even if he didn't outwardly admit it. she was leaning into the compliments a little more this time, giggling a way as she grazed her hand up his arm, a smirk curving over her glossy lips.

Kai watched her turn to leave, amusement flickering in his dark eyes. Oh, hell no. She wasn’t getting off that easy—not after that. Not after the way she kissed him like she meant it and then had the audacity to act like it never happened. Like she could just brush it off, walk away, and pretend she wasn’t still feeling it just as much as he was.

Before she could slip too far, his hand shot out, fingers wrapping around her wrist—not hard, just firm enough to stop her. To make her look at him.

"Nah," he muttered, voice lower now, rougher. "You don’t get to do that, princess."

His grip was steady but unthreatening as he pulled her back, just enough to spin her toward him again, just enough so that their bodies were close—too close. His free hand found her waist, pressing her back against him.

"You don’t get to kiss me like that," he murmured, his gaze locked onto hers, intense, unwavering. "And then act like it was nothing." He let the words settle, his thumb brushing absently against the inside of her wrist. Steady pulse. But faster than before.

A smirk played at the corner of his lips, but there was something else in his expression now—something less teasing, more real. He leaned in just a fraction, just enough for his breath to ghost over her lips, deliberately testing the waters. "You can say whatever you want," he said lowly, his voice smooth, taunting. "But we both know you’re not walking away because you want to. You’re walking away because you have to."

His grip loosened then, giving her the choice. Letting her decide if she wanted to stay. If she was going to run, or if she was going to stop pretending.

there was no expiration date or thought of when this might end, though the urgency of both of their actions was leading them down a very slippery slope in terms of restraint. there was only so much you could push at the actions of desire before there's a want and a need to escalate it further. of course pia was very aware that the longer they did this that she felt that fire the moment their lips pressed together. it was like all her irritation for him channeled into that one moment where she could just get tangled up in him and their bodies would do the only talking. the problem being that she knew the moment they stopped that he would ruin it, one way or another. pop her bubble in a matter of seconds just by opening his mouth.

they were both panting in their breaths in the silence as they pulled away from one another but not far enough that she could still feel his body pressed against hers and the tension it yeilded. the moment she saw that smirk of his begin to form she immediately regretted her decision. how could she be so stupid as to spur on his behaviour? she just wanted him to stop talking in all reality.

her orbs rolled in irritation, the pet name back in full force, didn't take him long did it? "i already am thanks." she portrayed a very sarcastic grin, aware of what she may have caused. "good thing that this is never ever happening again, huh?" she pointed out in a very definitive tone. who was she trying to convince really? because even she didn't believe herself. "if you'll excuse me i am going back inside to join the guys in their game. i'll let you finish your cigarette." she shifted so their bodies were finally apart and let out a sigh of irritation.

His hands slid to her hips, pulling her against him, the heat between them palpable now. Her back pressed against the cold brick wall had him deepening the kiss without thinking.

When her tongue slid against his lower lip, asking for more, he gave it without hesitation, his own tongue brushing against hers as if he’d been waiting for this moment as much as she had. There was no control now—no distance, no reason to hold back. It felt too good, too real, to pull away.

He groaned low in his throat as her body moved against his, the sound muffled by her lips. God, she was insistent, pressing back against him like she couldn’t get close enough. He felt the tension, the hunger, and it was driving him crazy.

When they finally broke apart, both of them breathless, Kai leaned his forehead against hers, his hands still resting on her hips. His voice was low, rough with desire, but the smirk was still there, curling at the corners of his lips. "You know," he murmured, his breath warm against her skin, "you’re gonna regret this, princess."

it didn't matter that there were people around, it didn't even matter the location at this point she just needed to kiss him. that intensity that had been escalating since they first laid eyes on one another had peaked and was spilling over the brim to the point she could not contain it anymore. she longed for them to be firing sarcastic comments at one another, trying to one up the other with every passing word. but in this exact moment she was just caving into desire. she hated herself that he was probably going to smug about it, but at this point she didn't care.

her mouth opened a little, massaging her tongue against his lower lip to ask for entrance, wanting to keep the fire going as the kiss seemed entirely electric. she pressed back against him though her frame leant a fraction so that her back was pressed between him the brick wall which prompted an almost moan to leave her lips as they continued to kiss. the fact was when this was over whenever that would be (and pia didn't seem keen on ending it anytime soon) her immediate reaction is going to be denial. that it happened. that it was any good. that she'd want it to happen again either.

Ruby felt her stomach flip when his message came through, her fingers curling around her phone as the words sank in. She hadn’t expected him to push quite this far. Chewing on her lip she questioned how to proceed.

text: talk about trying your luck... what will I get in return?

The brunette sat up, and crossed her legs on her lap as she began to take the plaits out of her hair. She still couldn't quite believe the way their conversation was going. They'd been been friends for a while now, he was easy to get on with and even easier on the eye but she'd never once thought he would have found her attractive yet tonight had proved otherwise. He knew her dating history and the type of guys she wasted her time with, she couldn't help but wonder what was going on in his mind -- was he into this or was it just a little bit of fun?

text: i mean technically you are the guy that I'm texting-- the other guy left me on read🙄

he knew there was every chance that when he text her that last message she could shoot him down, yet he decided to toss his hat in the ring so to speak. he wasn't tied down to anyone, though there were plenty of rumours about him getting back with his ex but he had no interest in persuing that further. they'd broken up for a reason. he felt like he'd wasted a year of his life to be with someone who made him look like a fool and yet was constantly trying to push her way back into the picture. he wouldn't say he felt nothing, it was quite hard actually first love and all but he wasn't going back there. instead he was dancing on this fine line with ruby, where she had the opportunity to shoot him down.. and yet she didn't, which he found interesting.

"fuckkkk." he groaned at her reply, only imagining what that could possibly look like.

text: lace as well.. god you're killing me.

text: sneak peek?

he leant up a fraction propping himself between the pillows and his bed post and got himself more comfortable as this conversation continued to unfold.

text: if i was that guy you were texting, i wouldn't be able to contain myself knowing that's what you had on underneath that easy accessible dress of yours.

Kai had barely exhaled the first lungful of smoke when he noticed the shift in her. She wasn’t saying anything, but the tension between them—it was different out here. Less noise, less space to hide behind. He could feel it now, the kind of crackling energy that hung between them. Not exactly anger anymore, but something hotter, more raw.

He wasn’t surprised when she snatched the cigarette from his hand, tossing it over her shoulder. The gesture was unexpected, but not unwelcome. He watched her, eyebrows raised, as her hands slipped around his neck and pulled him in. No hesitation. No words. Just action.

His breath caught, the urgency of the kiss catching him off guard for a moment, but he was quick to respond, his hands finding her waist, pulling her closer as he kissed her back with the same intensity. She wasn’t just trying to shut him up—she was trying to erase whatever was left between them. It was the kind of kiss that made everything else feel irrelevant. The world was quiet now. All that mattered was the heat of their skin, the rush of breath, and the unmistakable thrum of whatever this was.

to say she couldn't pinpoint him was an understatement. the crazy way she just wanted to argue with him and feel the heat rise between them, sparks firing left right and center. she had never experienced anything like it. normally when a guy pissed her off it stayed just as that, she wouldn't engage in it unless she absolutely had to, but in this case she wanted to. the moment she stepped outside and let the chill rise goosebumps over her skin she felt less enclosed, and more free without the atmosphere surrounding them. just a few people smoking and chatting outside and the night sky brimming with stars above them.

pia wondered whether he would follow her but she had a sense that he would. whether he too wanted to be in denial about what was going on between them he could sense it just as much as her. not that you'd actually hear her utter those words outloud. when his figure shifted from the shadows into the light of the secluded area she felt rather smug, but it didn't show on her features. instead she watched him carefully as he lit his cigarette, remaining quiet as he took his first drag before she swiftly removed it from his hand. tossing it over her shoulder her hands worked to move around his own and behind the back of his neck to pull him into a kiss of complete urgency. anything to shut him up at this point.

Ruby stared at her phone, biting her lip. She had intended to back off, to put an end to this and redirect her focus. But as she stared at the last message from the guy she liked, the one who had asked her out, her stomach twisted. He had left her on read.

So here she was, sitting in this weird limbo, trying to figure out whether she was just going to sit there and wait around for someone who seemed to be ignoring her—or lean into this playful back-and-forth with King.

She hesitated, staring at the screen. Should I just let it go? she wondered, but she couldn’t ignore how she felt now—how the attention from King, the teasing, the compliments, was almost like a balm for her bruised ego.

text: yep... why'd you ask? text: oh... wow, king, I had no idea you paid that much attention

She paused, her fingers hovering over the screen as she tried to think of a reply. She had always found King attractive, she'd even go as far as to say she had harboured a crush for her neighbour, but she had no idea he also found her attractive -- maybe it was just her body he liked. It wouldn't be the first time that had happened to her ... Still, for some reason, she didn't mind playing along.

text: it was a little red lacey number I was hiding under that dress, actually ;)

he wasn't bothered sending a picture of himself. and in his in way it was kind of like him shooting his shot. he knew he wasn't the most muscular guy, but he also wasn't super skinny and un-defined, he had something going on and not just in his pants region. which he knew she would clock. it didn't help that moments prior she'd sent him a photo and it prompted a reaction.

text: so that.. lingerie, is that what you have on now?

he wasn't quite sure what he was doing at this point but he was just completely rolling with it.

text: could imagine you hiding that little set underneath that dress you wore the other day. the one that hugs your curves and makes your legs look really long.

was he trying to sext with her right now? well, he hoped she'd take the compliments because he meant it, she was gorgeous and the dress he remembered IS incredible with her body, so it's not like he was wrong.

Kai watched her, amusement flickering behind his dark eyes as she tried—really tried—to act like she wasn’t enjoying this. But he saw it. The way she leaned into the fire just as much as he did. The way she kept engaging, even when she pretended to be over it.

His smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as she threw her little insult at him. Top three, huh? "Damn," he mused, tilting his head. "Only top three? Guess I’ll have to try harder."

His gaze flicked to her tattoos again as she mentioned her job. Careful placement. Now, that was interesting. He could respect it.

And then she hit him with that look—steady, unblinking, really seeing him.

Kai didn’t flinch from it. If anything, he met it head-on, letting the moment stretch, like a silent challenge. Then, just when he thought she was about to fire off another sharp remark, she threw him a curveball instead.

His brow lifted slightly, watching as she downed her drink and disappeared into the crowd. He could’ve stayed put. Could’ve let her walk off, called her bluff. But something about the way she looked back over her shoulder—waiting—had his feet moving before he even made the decision.

Kai weaved through the bodies in the bar, slipping past clusters of people until the heavy bass of the music dulled and the cooler night air hit his skin. The smoking area was quieter, less suffocating, and there she was, standing there like she hadn’t just surprised the hell out of him.

He stepped up beside her, hands slipping into the pockets of his leather jacket. A flick of his wrist and a cigarette was between his fingers, resting lazily against his lips as he fished out a lighter. "So," he said, voice lower now, less performative. "You always drag the ‘annoying, egotistical jerks’ outside for some one-on-one time, or am I just that special?" The smirk was still there, but his tone—just like the air between them—had shifted. He sparked the lighter and let the flame lick at the end of the cigarette. A slow inhale, the ember glowing, before he exhaled a ribbon of smoke into the night air.

despite his efforts to make things more amicable between them, pia was not buying it. the more he spoke in a way that seemed sincere the interesting thing was pia longed for their fiery comments once more. it was interesting that she had never been quite so rattled by someone before and yet kai made it all too easy. "what? are you saying i enjoy bickering with you?" she asked as her brow rose in a way that was prompted curiosity. "i mean out of all the annoying, egotistical jerks i have met in my life you are a shoo in for top three so congratulations, it's quite an honour." she turned her head a fraction to take another sip of the amber liquid as the ice clinked against her glass. "i don't think we are at a point where i am going to open up to you about what my artwork means. but no, none of them were because it looked cool. though i am careful with placement because of my job and things."

she turned back to look at him her gaze holding as their orbs almost penetrated an intense stare. "the pet name again?" she didn't show any signs of emotion with her tone of her expression she just looked at him, really taking him in. "you know what.. follow me.." she turned to grab her drink and downed the remained of the ice soothed liquid as she gestured to her friend she would be right back then wondered outside. though an absolute mission considering the sea of people socialising or dancing that she had to weave through in order to get the relief of fresh air. she waited a moment, turning to look over her shoulder for him to appear. the smoking area was much quieter she could hear herself think.

Text to King: He is not scrawny! But no, not him... not that it's any of your business. Text: As for whether I do this often... wouldn't you like to know ;)

Ruby blinked at her screen, her brain short-circuiting for a solid three seconds as the next text came through.

He did not just—

Her fingers twitched as she hovered over the message, like maybe if she stared at it long enough, it would disappear. But no. It was there.

She had expected teasing, maybe even some cocky remark, but this? She hadn’t thought he’d actually send something back. And yet, there it was. King, in all his smug, self-satisfied glory, clearly very pleased with himself.

A surprised laugh bubbled out of her before she could stop it. She hated to admit it, but the sheer audacity was kind of… impressive.

Text: Oh, you did NOT just send that. Text: You’re ridiculous.

She paused, fingers tapping against her phone as she debated her next move. Giving him a reaction was exactly what he wanted, but ignoring it would be just as bad. So, instead, she went with:

Text: But hey, points for confidence. And congrats on your erm...impressive package👀

text: ooo burn. i am scorned.

he couldn't help but chuckle at her words, finding this all very amusing and not what he had expected for the evening but there we go.

text: who was it for, huh? not that scrawny idiot i saw outside your door the other day is it? god help me if it is.

text: do you send these type of things often? or is this just a spontaneous decision, hmm?

he was curious to know if she did this often. not in a shaming her kind of way, there were just types of girls who were confident in doing so and others tended to be a bit more subdued.

text: (sends her a photo back of him in his underwear with a clear outline of something)

text: now we are even, no big deal.