Viper would rather die than stay with them. After Chamber got all the streaming services working (more than 10 in total), Raze convinced him to engage in a discussion about what they should watch. They spent 15 minutes on this, until they realized that Viper was about to get up and simply leave. They agreed to rewatch "The Truman Show" after Viper expressed complete disgust at the idea of watching a movie with Jim Carrey, wanting to change her bad opinion.
Meanwhile, Reyna and Sova were chatting amicably in the kitchen, chopping the guacamole ingredients. When Reyna let out an audible laugh at something Sova did, Chamber glanced at them over the back of the sofa. He nudged Viper, who was sitting in the opposite corner from him, and nodded towards them. Viper turned her head, glancing sideways at them.
It was possible to see their interaction through the half-wall and kitchen counter, which faced the living room. Sova had cut his finger, and Reyna was examining the injury. She patted his head and then sucked some of the blood from his finger, saying something that made him laugh.
Viper raised her eyebrows and turned to Chamber, engaging him in a conversation of glances.
"Are they sleeping together?"
"I don't know. But..."
They exchanged a smile, glancing one last time at their friends in the kitchen before turning to the TV. Viper settled on the sofa, sitting a little closer to Chamber. He noticed her movement and did the same, resting his hand on the sofa. He chuckled softly at a joke in the movie, moving even closer to her. She didn't react, but also rested her hand on the sofa, next to his.
- Ah! - Raze, who was sitting in an armchair, stood up. Chamber put his arm on the back of the sofa, while Viper put her hand back in her lap. - I almost forgot the dessert! I'll be right back! - She smiled at the two of them, heading towards the kitchen. Raze jumped on Sova and Reyna, hugging them by the shoulders. - You can say I'm a genius now!
Sova gave a restrained laugh, glancing at Chamber and Viper in the room.
- How did you manipulate the challenges?
- I didn't manipulate it. - Raze smiled brightly, sitting down on a counter. - I said. The gods of truth or dare are always on our side.
- Hallelujah. - Reyna murmured, giving an amused smile as she mashed the avocado with a fork. - Now tell those gods to make them admit they like each other.
- Oh, that's too much, xuxu.
- Leave them alone. - Sova rolled his eyes, concentrating on squeezing a lemon. - I think they'll be able to sort it out on their own now. They just needed a little push.
- Oh no. Now I'm all into this. - Reyna whined, looking at Sova. - I want to see how far they'll go together.
- So you're in favor of the fanfiction now? - Sova teased.
- They'd make a good fanfic plot. - Raze opened a bag of Doritos, eating some and gesturing to the two of them. - A Frenchman full of secrets and an American with even more secrets. Ah! - She made a surprised face, smiling even wider. - Mr. and Mrs. Smith!
- Good! - Reyna pointed at Raze with her fork, then nudged Sova with her shoulder. - You've gotten us too involved in this story not to get our hopes up.
- Seriously? - Sova looked at the two of them in surprise, then shook his head, turning back to his task. - I think we've done enough. Let it happen naturally...
- It'll happen naturally. Just with a little help! - Raze shoved more Doritos into her mouth.
- Do you want to stop eating Doritos? There won't be any left for guacamole! - Reyna glared at Raze disapprovingly.
The youngest raised her hands and then sucked on her fingers, getting down from the counter.
- I remembered what I came here to do.
- What kind of help? - Sova resumed the conversation, drying his hands on a cloth. - It only have one bed?
He said it jokingly. However, as soon as the words left his mouth, the agents looked at each other. For a moment, three lightbulbs went off above their heads, as they all had the same idea.
While they worked out their plan in the kitchen, Chamber and Viper moved closer together on the sofa. A considerable distance apart, yet close enough to comfortably hold each other's hands. The Frenchman gently stroked Viper's hand and turned to her whenever he commented on the film. She glanced at him sideways, a slight smile on her lips, squeezing his hand a little tighter.
If the audience weren't so noisy, preventing the two from forgetting their existence, perhaps they would already be embracing. Or kissing. Or already naked on the sofa.
They were both content with the restrained closeness, silently fantasizing about the moment when that space between them would end.
It could be sooner than they thought. Sova and Reyna returned from the kitchen with a bowl full of Doritos and a pot of guacamole, respectively, positioning themselves on either side of the sofa.
- Oh, move over! - Reyna pushed Viper with her hip, sitting between the arm of the sofa and the American.
Sova didn't say anything, he just sat down next to Chamber, forcing him to get closer to Viper. The Frenchman grimaced, but put his arm on the back of the sofa behind Viper. To get more comfortable, not to discreetly caress her shoulders and hair.
- Do we have to be stuck like this? - Viper looked at Reyna disapprovingly, moving her leg so that it was touching Chamber's.
- Yes, it's easier for everyone to eat. - The Mexican woman smiled, placing the bowl of guacamole on Chamber and Viper's legs. - Merci! You guys are a great table!
Chamber rolled his eyes and grabbed some guacamole with the Doritos, tasting the mixture. He shook his head, looking at Reyna.
- It's delicious.
- I know. - Reyna smiled excitedly, eating along with them. She nudged Viper with her shoulder, giving an amused smile. - Eat too. Stop being so in disgust.
Viper made a face of disgust and picked up a Doritos with her fingertips. She tasted some of the guacamole and grimaced, swallowing reluctantly.
- Ay no. No. No. No. No. - Reyna made an indignant face. - Don't tell me you didn't like it!
Viper shook her head, passing the bowl onto Chamber's lap.
- I don't like avocado.
- Ai Dios mio... - Reyna complained again in Spanish, to which Viper shrugged, making a move to get up.
- If you want to change places to eat...
- Sit down. - Reyna placed her hand on Viper's shoulder, forcing her to sit back down. - Raze! Are you finished?
- Yep!
Raze returned to the room with a pan in one hand and a plate with a candy and four spoons in the other. She had a spoon in her mouth, so she gestured with her head for Reyna to get a cushion. The Mexican agent placed a cushion on Viper's lap, and Raze quickly put the candy there, then sat down on the floor in front of them.
Viper observed the candy with suspicion. Peanuts were encased in a creamy, glossy chocolate mixture. It was warm and smelled sweet.
- It's pé-de-moleque. - She nodded, scraping the remaining chocolate from the pan and eating it. - In my way. Give a try.
The American woman sighed, looking at the mixture as if she didn't want to try anything new for the next decade. Chamber took a spoonful of the dessert, tasting it. His eyes widened, and he took the plate for himself, serving himself another generous portion.
- Merde, c'est parfait!
- You're welcome. - Raze smiled confidently, turning back to the movie.
Sova picked up one of the spoons and ate a portion, letting out a sigh. Reyna did the same, licking the spoon with relish after appreciating the taste.
- Viper, you have to try this!- Chamber encouraged, offering her a spoonful of the candy.
She looked from the dessert to Chamber, making a face as if she were in physical pain from being put in that situation. He shrugged as if to say "you're the one losing” putting her spoon down on the plate and eating with the others.
They turned their attention back to the movie. At some point, the other agents grew tired of the dessert and started attacking the guacamole, leaving half the plateful in Viper's lap. She had given up trying to escape to her room—it had nothing to do with the fact that a movie with Jim Carrey (!) was interesting. However, she was getting hungry. She looked at the plate of dessert in her lap and sighed, resigning herself to giving it one single chance before heading to the kitchen to find something decent to eat.
Viper scooped some up with a spoon and took a taste, pulling off a peanut-like piece with her teeth. Her eyes widened as she felt the creamy, chocolatey texture melting in her mouth while biting into the soft peanut.
- Umm… - She murmured, drawing Chamber's attention. The Frenchman smiled, helping himself to some more.
- It's delicious, isn't it?
Viper nodded briefly, eating more.
- It tastes like...
- Snickers! - They finished speaking together, exchanging a smile that seemed to reveal a shared secret. Their mutual addiction to Snickers.
- Hey! - Raze playfully slapped Reyna's leg, too engrossed in the movie to care about the couple behind her. - You're not getting paid to be in my life, are you?
- I should get paid more for dealing with you. - Reyna laughed, pulling her legs up when Raze made a move to hit her again. - Our lives have too much action to be a reality show like this.
- Yeah… - Raze nodded, glancing back quickly. - Phoenix says we're characters in an FPS game.
Chamber chuckled, adjusting his glasses on his face.
- I must be the meta of the game.
- Oh, put yourself in your place, Chamber. - Reyna rolled her eyes and then gave a wicked smile. - Oh, wait, you can't, can you? Your ego is too big to fit in.
- Spare me, Reyna. Nobody would like to play with you.
- What do you…
- When we're on missions, we're in an FPS game. - Sova interjected before the other two could start a fight, eating some Doritos with guacamole. - But now we're in a fanfic.
Oh, damn it, this again.
- Fanfic? - Chamber grimaced, looking at Sova.
- Fan fiction. When someone really likes something...
- I know what fanfiction is. - Chamber rolled her eyes. - But why do you think we're in a fanfiction?
Yes. Why would a fanfic character think they're in a fanfic?
- Intuition. Besides, every fanfic needs a beach episode.
Damn. I should have made him dumber.
- That makes sense… - Raze agreed slowly. Which, just to be clear, she shouldn't be doing.
Viper thought for a moment and gave a sly smile, whispering something to Reyna. The other laughed, nodding at her.
- That’s a good one.
- What? - Chamber turned to them, curious.
- It's neither a shooting game nor fanfiction. We're in a dating sim.
The three agents turned to Reyna, suddenly interested in the theory. The Mexican agent shrugged.
- Absurdly attractive people from all over the world gather on a remote island with a common goal.
Viper gave a slight smile, stuffing her mouth with more pé-de-moleque before murmuring.
- If it's not a dating sim, it's a dating reality show plot.
- Really, Viper? - The Brazilian agent smiled broadly, resting her cheek on her fist and looking at her. - And who's your current crush?
Viper raised an eyebrow at the younger girl, ignoring the quick glint that passed through Chamber's eyes. She ate some more candy before speaking.
- I'm a background NPC.
- Oh, come on. - Reyna nudged her with her shoulder, laughing. - If that's the case, there must be a lot of mods out to get you.
The American woman turned to the other, her lip trembling in a mischievous smile.
- Are you interested in using this mod?
- Don't tempt me, Sabine.
- It's not my fault if you're so interested in me today.
Sova and Raze made surprised faces as they watched this last interaction, while Chamber narrowed his eyes. Feeling the Frenchman's deadly gaze on her reminded Reyna that she had to bring the two of them together. Now, perhaps, at the risk of death.
- Changing the subject. - Reyna began, clearing her throat. - I think it's best if I sleep alone. My ability has been acting strangely lately, and I don't want to kill any of you while I sleep. It'll ruin my vacation having to drag your bodies to the jet.
Viper frowned, looking at Reyna with some concern.
- What do you mean by strange?
- It happens every month.
- Ah. - Viper nodded, without needing to elaborate. Radiant women became more unstable than non-radiant ones as their cycle progressed. - Alright...
Reyna gave Raze a light kick, reminding her of her part of the plan. The brazilian cleared her throat.
- I snore terribly. Just so you know. - She turned to the TV, adjusting herself on the floor.
Viper looked at them both suspiciously, then turned to Sova and Chamber. She tilted her head, giving a sly smile as she considered a provocation.
- Are you boys going to sleep with me?
It took the agents a few seconds to understand what Viper had implied. Sova's jaw dropped, while Chamber's face turned completely red. Reyna's eyes widened as Raze turned around, caught off guard by Viper's words. Viper held back a laugh at the mixed reactions and the silence, then shook her head.
- I'll take that as a no. - She turned to the TV, licking the dessert off her spoon dramatically. - Too bad. I saw a hammock outside. You two can fight over the couch. - Viper looked thoughtful for a moment, then shrugged. - Or, if you're up for it, I'll take the couch. You two can share the bed.
Reyna burst into laughter, throwing her head back. Raze turned to the other side, observing Sova and Chamber. The men exchanged indignant glances.
- What? Sleep with him? - Sova pointed at Chamber. - He didn't even make me dinner!
- Why is it always me who has to make dinner? - Chamber crossed his arms, making an annoyed face. - It could be you, at least once.
- Look, I work very hard. You should appreciate me more!
- Me, appreciate you? Oh no! You'll be sleeping in a hammock for that! - Chamber turned his back to Sova, struggling not to laugh. He struggled a little when Sova hugged him from behind, pulling him close. - Let go of me! You ungrateful wretch!
- Noooo! - Sova whimpered. - Make my dinner and I'll sleep with you!
- Go to hell, Sasha! - Chamber laughed, nudging Sova with his elbow.
Reyna was crying from laughing so hard. Viper and Raze watched the two with interest. The brazilian turned to the older woman.
- I see potential in this yaoi. Don't you want to be the meat in their sandwich, Viper?
- I wouldn't spoil such a beautiful couple. - She shrugged, turning to the TV and eating the rest of the pé-de-moleque. Her stomach ached a little from having eaten only the candy for dinner, but she wouldn't allow herself to regret it.
- A beautiful couple? He's treating me like a slave! - Chamber complained, pushing away from Sova.
- It's not my fault if you were made to serve me. - Sova laughed, hitting Chamber with a pillow when he showed him the middle finger.
- Quiet! Truman's going to break free! - Raze slapped their legs, looking at the TV. She gave an excited smile, reciting the line along with the character. - Caso eu não os veja novamente... - She frowned, annoyed. - It's in English. It's different… - She turned to Viper, smiling amusedly. - So? What did you think?
Viper glanced sideways at Raze and shook her head, gesturing with the spoon.
- I lost fewer neurons than I expected.
- Oh, sis, stop being such a pain. The movie is awesome. - Raze made a grumpy face, yawning.
- Indeed. - Chamber confirmed, giving Viper a judgmental look.
- Whatever. - She stood up with the plate in her lap, heading to the kitchen.
Raze looked at Viper and then at Chamber, jumping up to her feet.
- You know what? I'm exhausted! Since we made the food, how about you guys do the dishes? What do you say? - The Brazilian grabbed Sova and Reyna's hands, pulling them both along. When Chamber opened his mouth to speak, Raze cut him off. - Great! Thanks, Chambinho! You're awesome!
Raze flashed a radiant smile at Viper as she passed through the kitchen, who returned it with a suspicious look, eating the rest of the pé-de-moleque. Reyna sighed as they reached the hallway, letting go of Raze.
- You're as discreet as a grenade.
- It's my charm. - Raze shrugged, glancing toward the living room, watching Chamber get up and stretch. - I hope they naturally hook up soon. I'm out of ideas. - The Brazilian shook her head, picking up her phone. - And I have to save my relationship. Goodnight! - She went to one of the bedrooms, but stopped. She turned on her heels, looking at the two of them reproachfully. - And don't disturb them! - She turned, entering the room and closing the door.
Sova and Reyna watched in the direction Raze went, then exchanged glances. They chuckled softly, watching from the hallway as Chamber walked toward the kitchen.
- Do you think it will work? - Reyna asked, tilting her head curiously.
- We'll have to wait and see. - He nodded slowly and glanced sideways at Reyna. He paused for a moment to analyze her, her body exposed by the cropped top and shorts. He had never paid much attention to how attractive Reyna was. He cleared his throat and tucked a strand of hair behind his ear, looking away. - I'm going... Ahw… Look for the hammock... It's been a long day.
The Mexican agent turned to Sova and opened her mouth to say something. She briefly examined his mouth and let her gaze travel down his body. And, since when was Sova hot?
She quickly shut her mouth, nodding and crossing her arms.
- Buenas noches, Sova.
They looked at each other for a moment. They exchanged an awkward smile, and, even more awkwardly, went in opposite directions, Reyna to her room and Sova to the balcony.
Chamber, on the other hand, was rolling up his shirt sleeves and approaching Viper. She had her back to him, drinking a glass of water, and shivered slightly when he touched the base of her spine.
- Go to sleep, Viper. I'll clean everything around here… - He wrinkled his nose at the mess the other agents had left in the kitchen. He made a mental note to never let any of them cook again.
The American agent looked at him, pursing her lips slightly. She shrugged, placing the glass in the sink.
- It's fair that I help too… - She thought for a moment, tilting her head to the side. - As long as you make me some coffee.
Chamber gave an amused smile, shaking his head.
- I figured you'd need something to balance. You practically ate the whole dessert by yourself.
Viper made an innocent face, shrugging one shoulder as if to justify herself.
- It was very good.
Chamber nodded, picked up a kettle and filled it with water. He placed it on the stove to heat.
- I'll dry and you wash?. - He proposed. Viper nodded, gathering some dishes to wash while Chamber grabbed a dish towel and dried the dishes.
The atmosphere was calm. The kitchen lights, the only ones illuminating the open-plan living and dining area, created a welcoming ambiance. Chamber and Viper moved cautiously, performing their respective tasks with feigned concentration, discreetly focused on each other's movements. They maintained close proximity without touching. The rain and waves crashing against the shore provided the background noise for the silence between them. An anxious silence, each waiting for the other to break it.
Just as Chamber was about to open his mouth, thinking he would regret making some frivolous comment just to talk to her, Sabine spoke up.
- It wasn't my first time. - Her voice was low and soft, almost vulnerable.
Vincent blinked a few times, trying to process what she had said. He parted his lips slightly, stopping beside her.
- That... That time... In Florence? - He clarified, watching her as she looked at him and nodded. - Oh...
He glanced at some point on the counter, nodding slowly and squeezing the dishcloth slightly in his hands.
- It makes sense...
Sabine gave a shy smile, waving her hands when she finished washing the dishes.
- You did well. - She took the dishcloth from his hands, touching them briefly before pulling the cloth towards herself, drying her own hands.
Vincent turned to her and exhaled, giving a mischievous and shy smile.
- I lied.
Sabine, who had a discreet smile on her lips, frowned.
- About what?
- About the first time. - Vincent chuckled lightly, grabbing a pot of coffee from one of the cupboards and pouring it into a filter, turning his back to her. - I had sex when I was about sixteen. That was truly terrifying. - He shook his head, his eyes widening slightly as he picked up the kettle and filled the filter with water.
- Did you choose truth just to lie?
- Everyone does it.
- No. What's the point of choosing truth if you're going to lie? - Sabine crossed her arms, resting her hip on the kitchen sink. Although her voice expressed her indignation, she had to struggle to hide the amusement on her face.
- Not having to do a stupid dare. - He rolled his eyes, but paused for a moment. He turned to her, glancing briefly at her lips before speaking, then back to her eyes. - You still kiss well.
Sabine, trying even harder to maintain a cold expression, narrowed her eyes slightly, avoiding with all her might looking at his lips.
- Are you lying?
- Not this time. - Vincent let the sentence hang in the air, staring shamelessly at her mouth for a long three seconds. Sabine unconsciously moistened her lips. He turned to the kitchen cupboard, his back to her, and picked up two identical brown porcelain mugs. - You know, a good lie is a good story. I didn't tell about my first time for real. - He hesitated for a moment, taking the cup of brewed coffee and pouring it into the mugs. - It was awful, and the person meant nothing to me… - He picked up the mugs, turning to Sabine and handing her one. - I told you about the first time I wish I'd had. - He finished, taking a sip of coffee, without taking his eyes off her.
Even trying to maintain her composure, Sabine had to shift her weight from one foot to another, ensuring the stability of her suddenly shaky legs. She had never realized how intense Chamber's brown eyes could be, shining with a seductive honey hue. She remembered that his lips were sweet to her taste.
She picked up the coffee mug, focusing on the warm sensation in her hand and ignoring the heat that look had made her feel.
- You're good at making up stories... That's why I never believed a word you said. - She commented, taking a sip of her coffee and crossing her arms.
Vincent raised his eyebrows, a bright smile appearing at the veiled compliment. He tilted his head to the side, observing her with interest.
- Would you like to play a game, Mademoiselle Callas?
Sabine exhaled through her nose with a short laugh, turning her head. She observed the entrance to the house, with glass doors through which one could see the rain outside.
- You guys are full of games today, aren't you?
- They're fun. - Vincent shrugged and followed her gaze. - I propose the truth game. - Sabine turned to the man, raising her eyebrows with clear curiosity. - For the next hour, everything we say will be the truth. Only the truth. Nothing but the truth.
This time, Sabine let out a genuine laugh. Low and warm, like a secret she didn't want the other members of the house to know existed. Vincent's smile widened as he gazed at her mouth. She was the most beautiful sculpture ever made, and her laugh was the masterpiece any musician dreamed of creating. Vincent felt he would evaporate with passion, and it would be an honor to be inhaled by her like the steam rising from her coffee.
- You're incapable of telling a single truth, Chamber. - She concluded, still half-laughing, trying to control herself.
- Oh, really? - Vincent raised an eyebrow, feigning indignation, and then turned toward the front door.
He nodded, indicating for her to follow him. Sabine followed, watching him open the front door and lean against the frame. She let her shoulders slump, a slight smile spreading across her face as she felt the cool breeze. The outside of the house was pitch black. The rain was constant, obscuring any remote chance of seeing the stars or the moon. Only the sound of the waves crashing in the distance and the salty smell of the water indicated that the sea lay just ahead.
- It's raining. - Vincent gestured outside, taking a sip of his coffee and raising his mug to her. - Coffee is bitter. And good. - He tilted his head, looking her up and down, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. - You're beautiful.
Sabine rolled her eyes, leaning against the doorframe opposite him, staring at the dark horizon.
- Just facts.
- You said I'm incapable of telling the truth. I've already told four. - Vincent's arrogant smile made Sabine desperately want to punch him. Both for being absurdly irritating and absolutely adorable. - I'd take advantage of it if I were you… - He checked the time on his watch, clicking his tongue. - There are only 57 more minutes of truths left for me.
Sabine watched him with veiled amusement, sipping her coffee. She lowered her mug, resting her cheek on her fist.
- Well... Is this where you launder money?
Vincent blinked a few times, processing the question, before letting out a soft laugh. He shrugged, gazing at the horizon.
- Is it really that obvious?
- The house was already suspicious. But your friendship with everyone in town went too far.
- Merde, I should have been more unfriendly. - Vincent clicked his tongue, as if disappointed in himself. - But what can I do? When a millionaire decides to fund a few small businesses, people tend to accept the money before questioning it. And they don't question it much when you put in more money.
- Obviously. - Sabine gave a small smile, pleased with her accurate theory. - And you have a brother...
- Unfortunately. - Vincent sighed, taking a sip of his coffee.
- You must be used to dealing with people who look like you. - Sabine spoke slowly, as if rambling, but her eyes remained fixed on him. - Like your Omega clone, perhaps...
Vincent raised an eyebrow, giving her a slight smile.
- Can I ask you a question?
- After answering mine.
- You didn't ask any questions.
- Do you have an agreement with the Chamber of Omega Earth?
- Have you ever slept with Sova?
Sabine blinked a few times, taken aback by the question. Vincent appreciated her astonished expression, then made a thoughtful face.
- You two have a friendly relationship. You've known each other since the beginning of the Protocol. You're both attractive. - He nodded, glancing at his coffee mug. - That would make sense.
Sabine watched him for a few more seconds and exhaled through her nose, giving an amused smile. She turned to face forward, appreciating the darkness.
- Three times.
- Oh.
Sabine drank her coffee, using it to stifle a laugh at Vincent's desolate and lost expression. He quickly masked it with a neutral face. She exhaled, lowering her mug.
- We were needy.
- Fair enough… - Vincent murmured, shrugging as if it were nothing, turning towards the horizon. - I would do the same.
- Sleep with Sova?
- With both of you.
Sabine pouted, understanding what he was saying.
- He's good... And very bi...
- I can figure that out myself. Merci. - He cut her off, clearly becoming grumpy. Sabine once again held back a laugh.
- Don't worry, Fabrón. - Sabine turned toward Vincent, leaning her back against the doorframe. She watched him curiously, drinking the rest of her coffee. - He's not my type.
Her words caught Vincent's attention, and he turned to her automatically. He noticed her posture, relaxed and open to him. The Frenchman smiled involuntarily, mimicking her pose.
- Oui? What is your type?
Sabine raised her eyebrows slightly. Vincent drank the rest of his coffee, trying to hide the fact that he looked pathetic and somewhat desperate.
She wasn't going to say out loud that that was her type anytime soon.
- Rich.
Vincent chuckled and nodded.
- How many digits in the account?
- Ten, at least.
He made a thoughtful face, finally pouting.
- It depends on the account, then. What else?
- A PhD. Maybe three registered patents.
- Fair.
- And most importantly… - Sabine smiled more broadly, looking at Vincent. Even in the dark, she noticed the glint of expectation in his eyes. Damn it, he was adorable. - He can't be French.
The indignant look on Vincent's face was as spontaneous as it was comical. If the plan was to drive him crazy in every way possible, she was more than excellent at executing it.
- What's wrong with the French?
- Everything.
- We have a refined culture, a language far more interesting than English, and the food surpasses...
- Blah, blah, blah. - Sabine murmured, rolling her eyes. - Europeans are intolerable.
Vincent puffed out his chest, looking at Sabine with palpable indignation. He crossed his arms, narrowing his eyes at her.
- An American, then?
- Sure.
- Was Sova an exception?
- A great exception.
Vincent continued to watch her, trying in vain to hide the smile that appeared at the corners of his lips.
- Would you open another one?
- I've made enough mistakes already.
The Frenchman chuckled, shaking his head and biting his lower lip slightly. He raised his eyebrows at her, watching Sabine's lips with bright eyes.
- I'm starting to think you're the liar here.
Sabine gave him a conspiratorial smile. Her eyes traveled down the exposed skin of his neck. Intrusive thoughts told her to strangle him.
Whether he would like it or not was up to him.
- I'm honest enough to at least choose dare in that damn game.
- Oh. - Vincent shook his head, giving an amused smile. - I noticed you quite enjoyed your dares.
- No more than you. - Sabine's gaze traveled down his body, raising an eyebrow suggestively.
- Kissing an American isn't torture.
She looked up at his face, meeting his intense gaze. His brown eyes were obscured by the lack of light where they were. But she knew they reflected the same desire as her own. Vincent's gaze drifted down to her lips, pressing his own slightly.
- Why don't you kiss again? - She raised her eyebrows, stepping a little away from the doorway. - Maybe…
A lightning bolt ripped across the sky, illuminating Vincent's face. His thirsty brown eyes were the last thing she saw before he deftly approached, pulling her to him by the waist with one hand. He dropped the mug he was holding, and the thunder reached them just as it shattered on the floor, muffling the sound of broken porcelain. Vincent gripped her hair, taking her lips in his, kissing her longingly. Sabine dropped her mug too, unconcerned by the noise. She pulled him closer, entwining one hand in his hair and placing the other on the nape of his neck.
They kissed with more longing than they had imagined. The pent-up fire of the day, filled with flirting, was unleashed and ignited them with intoxicating speed. Like fuel and oxidizer, they kissed as if they needed to consume each other to exist.
But they still needed oxygen. Sabine bit Vincent's lower lip, pulling it away when she needed to breath. They were breathless from the urgent kiss, their breaths mingling on each other's faces. He rested his forehead against hers, keeping her close, panting and smiling.
- Ouch… - He murmured, touching the spot where she had bitten him.
She gave a smug smile, lowering one hand to his arm and squeezing his bicep. It was bigger up close and firmer than she had imagined.
- You should know I'm the type who bites… - She pointed out, kissing the corner of his lips.
Vincent gave a wry smile, tightening his grip on her waist.
- You can bite as much as you want… - He murmured, kissing her again.
Sabine returned the kiss, a smile playing between her lips as he lowered himself slightly to wrap his arms around her legs, lifting her up. Sabine wrapped her legs around him, circling his shoulders with her arms as he walked with her toward what she presumed was the sofa. She squeezed him tighter as he stumbled, groaning against her lips.
- Ouch! - He exclaimed, letting go of her legs and stepping back.
Sabine let go of him on impulse, landing on the ground. She looked at him with concern and apprehension, still touching his neck.
- What happened? - She shifted her head, trying to stay within his line of sight. She noticed he was looking at something below them and followed his gaze. - Oh, shit.
Vincent lifted his foot, assessing the damage. He had stepped on shards of broken mugs. His foot had a scratch and a shard embedded firmly in the sole. He cursed under his breath in French, then bit his lower lip.
- Oh shit. - She shook her head, lowering her hand and making a move to help him.
- It's nothing serious. - He grumbled, pulling the shard away in one swift motion. He pressed his lips together, suppressing a groan of pain.
- Do you want me to put on a bandage or...?
- Ce n'est rien. - He spoke urgently, cupping her face in both hands and pulling her in for another kiss.
Sabine reciprocated, half worried because it seemed to hurt; half laughing, because he was still pushing her towards the sofa and limping in a comical way; and half horny because, damn, that man had a phenomenal kiss.
She fell onto the sofa, letting him lie on top of her and relishing feel of the weight of his body on hers. She felt his hand slip under her tank top and quickly began to unbutton his shirt. She gasped as he held her wrists and lifted them above her head, pinning them with one hand. With his other hand, he lifted her tank top higher, trailing kisses down her chest and stomach.
They suddenly stopped, hearing the sound of footsteps. They looked at each other, their dilated pupils contracting slightly as a new light came on. The hallway light.
- Merde! - He grumbled, and Sabine shook her head frantically in denial, staring at him with wide eyes.
The footsteps grew louder and heavier, coming toward them. Sabine pulled away from him, pushing his shoulders and gesturing with her lips a "Do something!"
- Chamber?
- HEY! - Chamber stood up, looking at Sova with a nervous smile. From where the Russian agent had stopped, he couldn't clearly see either Viper or the mess in the room. However, just a few steps ahead and he would see everything. - Sova! Did something happen?
Sova analyzed Chamber, wrinkling his nose. The Frenchman's hair was messy, his glasses slightly crooked, and half his shirt was open. If Sova got closer, he would easily notice his reddened lips.
- I'm the one asking. I heard a noise after the thunder. I came to check it out.
Chamber gave a short, almost hysterical laugh. Viper slapped his thigh to calm him down. She cursed herself for it, fearing that Sova might see her.
- It's easier for lightning to lose its energy than for the electricity in this house to be lost. We made sure of that.
- Okay… - Sova said slowly, placing one hand on his hip. - Were you awake too?
- Ahw... Uhum... - Chamber looked at Viper below him and leaned towards him. - Go to the room. I'll distract him. - He whispered, picking up his cell phone that had been left on the floor next to the sofa and stood up again, showing the device to the other. - Addiction.
- Oh yes… - Sova nodded briefly, giving a wry smile. - Late-night porn? I could hear some moans too.
Chamber gave another short laugh, getting up from the sofa. He squeezed his phone, trying to release the pain he felt when his injured foot touched the floor.
- As if you've never done this before.
- Yes. When I was fifteen. - Sova gave a teasing smile. - Are you that needy?
The French agent controlled himself very, very much, to avoid looking down at Viper. The American was trying to get off the sofa without making a sound.
- You have no idea.
- What a shame. - Sova shook his head and went to the kitchen. - You should have gone to Viper sooner. She was really in the mood today.
- Ah Ah... - Chamber gestured for Viper to move to the opposite side of the sofa from where he was, walking to the counter that separated the kitchen from the living room and leaning against it. He pressed his lips together and took a deep breath before speaking. The pain from walking there with his injured foot radiated through his leg with every movement. - Really?
Sova grabbed a glass from one of the cupboards, looking at Chamber skeptically.
Viper crawled across the floor, stopping beside the sofa. He carefully brushed aside some broken mug shards to avoid hurting herself and looked intently at Chamber.
- She didn't even care when I kissed her. - Chamber sighed dramatically, leaning against the counter so he was facing Viper. He glanced at her quickly and gestured for her to wait, in a way that Sova wouldn't see. - I guess I should move on.
- Just be patient. She's into you. - Sova smiled, walking over to the sink on the counter. If he leaned over slightly, he might catch a glimpse of Viper right there beside him.
- NO! - Chamber held out his hand to him, receiving a suspicious look in response. Chamber smiled, pointing to the refrigerator. - The tap water here isn't good. Get some from the bottle. It's one of those from Norway.
- Ah... - Sova nodded and went to the refrigerator. Chamber took advantage of his back being turned and looked at Viper, gesturing for her to go.
The American woman stood up and, with light, agile steps, crossed the room until she stopped at one of the walls dividing the kitchen. She would only have to pass through the open entrance and she would be in the hallway leading to the bedrooms. She peeked into the kitchen just as Sova turned to the side, quickly hiding so as not to be seen.
- Did you make coffee?
- Ahw... - Chamber blinked a few times, lifting his foot to avoid stepping on it. - Yes. I drink at night.
- I'm not surprised you have insomnia. - Sova leaned against the counter opposite Chamber, drinking his water. - Are you going to stay up all night watching porn or are you going to play with me? I want a rematch.
- Oh… Oui. A quick one. - Chamber feigned a yawn, rubbing one eye beneath his glasses. - Now I'm getting sleepy.
- Uh-hu… - Sova looked at Chamber suspiciously, drinking the rest of his water. - I'll go get my phone. - The Russian headed for the kitchen entrance. With his long legs, in one more step he would be out of there and see Viper. The American held her breath as she felt him approaching.
- Why? - Chamber complained, making him turn around. The Frenchman showed his cell phone, looking at Sova as if he didn't see the obvious. - Play it on mine.
Sova thought for a moment before shrugging, walking over to Chamber and leaning against the counter.
- Put it there.
Viper waited a few more seconds and then looked back into the kitchen. Sova was engrossed in conversation with Chamber. She walked ahead, passing through the kitchen entrance and into the hallway. Chamber glanced at her as she passed, drawing Sova's attention.
- Umm? - Sova turned around just as Viper entered the hallway, narrowly escaping his field of vision. He frowned.
- What's up?Chamber asked casually, resting his cheek on his hand.
- Umm... Nothing. - He turned to Chamber, continuing the game.
The French agent breathed a sigh of relief, seeing that the two of them had gotten out of that situation. He looked at Sova with amusement, shaking his head.
- Do you really think Viper is interested in me?
- It's as clear as daylight.
- Umm... I thought you guys were the ones who had something going on...
Sova looked up at Chamber, raising an eyebrow.
- Oh, come on, tell me it never happened. - The Frenchman teased the other, making him laugh. - I recognize exes when I see them.
- We were never anything to be exes. - Sova pointed out, examining the game on the phone. - If something happened, she's already into someone else, and so am I.
- Oh... - Chamber nodded, somewhat relieved and now curious about his last comment. - You're into someone else, Sasha?
- Focus on the game, Fabrón. - The Russian rolled his eyes, flicking the other's forehead, making him laugh.
Chamber and Sova chatted and played for a few minutes. Sova ended up winning this time, and Chamber congratulated him as if he were really good, unable to admit that his mind was elsewhere.
Correction, it was someone else's.
Fortunately, Sova didn't suspect anything about Chamber's sudden sleepiness, retreating to the balcony as soon as the game ended. Luckily, he didn't see the broken mug shards and the trail of blood Chamber's foot had left behind.
Chamber waited a few seconds and then proceeded with the "eliminate traces" operation. He cleaned the room, ensuring there were no more dangerous shards on the floor or traces of blood. He discarded the old coffee, pretending that only Sova had seen it. And, the worst part, he cleaned the wound on his foot with alcohol and covered the injury with Band-Aids. Sage would probably have a heart attack if he saw how he did it, but, well, it was all he had.
Now came the operation "finally having sex with Viper". He took out his cell phone and texted her.
[Me]
> Finished.
He stopped in the hallway, looking from the bedroom doors to his phone. For a moment of desperation, he considered the possibility that Viper's phone was dead and he'd have to guess which room she'd chosen for herself. He was planning what he would say impromptu if he entered Reyna's or Raze's room, until a door opened— of his own room. Viper poked her head out, looking around for him. He moved quickly, forgetting he had to be quiet, and entered the room.
Viper closed the door and turned to him, kissing him passionately. He returned the kiss, finishing unbuttoning his shirt and throwing it to the floor, then squeezing her waist. Viper let out a soft laugh, pulling back slightly to look at him.
- It took a while. - She commented, placing her hands on his strong shoulders. - Were you enjoying late-night porn?
Chamber groaned, pulling her with him onto the bed.
- Oh, shut up.
- Make me.
The last thing Viper did was stay quiet during the night. At least the room had good soundproofing.
Raze yawned as she left the room, scratching her stomach under her shirt. She'd stayed on the phone with Killjoy continuously after entering the room and hadn't slept much. At least she had the certainty that everything was alright with her.
More than good, actually.
The Brazilian gave a wry smile, remembering the previous night, and went to one of the stools at the kitchen counter, following the smell of eggs and bacon frying.
- Bom dia. - She murmured, sitting down on the last available seat next to Reyna, with Sova occupying the other.
- Hola... - Reyna gave Raze a loving smile, adjusting her hair. - Sleep well?
- Not at all. - She shook her head, smiling at Chamber as he placed a mug of coffee and a plate of eggs and bacon in front of her. - Thank you, Chambinho.
- Eat quickly. We have to leave early. - The Frenchman warned, biting into a piece of bacon and going back to separating the breakfast from the others.
- Hmm... - The brazilian rubbed one eye and took a sip of her coffee, sighing. - Was I the last one to wake up?
- Actually… - Reyna began to speak until Viper emerged from the hallway, already in her full tactical suit. - Yeah. I think so.
- Sorry… - Raze sighed, then looked at Viper. - Good morning, doctor.
The American agent turned to the others and, to their complete shock, smiled slightly. It was just a mere curl of her lips. However, considering Viper's usual scowl, it was a big smile. And it wasn't a sadistic, forced, mocking, or ironic smile. It was a calm, almost sweet smile.
- Good morning.
She went into the kitchen, grabbed a mug of coffee, a plate of eggs and bacon, and headed outside to eat on the porch.
All of this, and the other agents had identical stunned expressions. Since when did Viper ever say good morning to anyone?
- Here. - Chamber placed the plates in front of Reyna and Sova, giving the coffee mug only to Reyna. - No coffee, non?
- Ahw… - Sova said after a while, nodding. - Yeah.
- Bien. - The French agent grabbed his breakfast and went outside, drinking his coffee.
The three agents leaned back in sync, watching through the open doors as Chamber exited the house, likely following the same path as Viper.
Sova cursed under his breath in Russian. Reyna in Spanish, then murmured:
- I don't believe...
- OH BOY! WE DID IT, CACETA! OUCH! - Raze grimaced, receiving a slap on the back of the neck from Reyna.
- Calate!
Despite the older woman's scolding, the other agents heard the Brazilian’s exaggerated celebration. Viper was sitting in the hammock, with Chamber beside her. Chamber glanced at them over his shoulder, then looked at Viper.
- Yes. They were trying to bring us together.
- I told you so. - Viper shrugged, taking a sip of her coffee.
Chamber smiled slightly, putting an arm around Viper.
- Was it worth coming here?
The American agent sighed dramatically.
- It was worse than being blown up by the spike.
- So you would never try again?
Viper shrugged, gazing at the horizon.
- I keep going on missions, don't I?- She looked at Chamber and pressed her lips together, suppressing a smile. She nudged his head, drinking her coffee. - Eat. We must go back.
Chamber smiled, taking a few bites of the eggs and bacon, knowing that after that day, some things would definitely change between them.
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