"And I know that I'm drunk but I'll say the words, and she'll listen this time even though they're slurred." - Nothing, the Script
Barney walked beside Robin, keeping his eyes on her as she babbled drunkenly. It was really cute, if he was being honest, but Barney knew he had to focus. Step two of the Robin was being put into play. He knew it'd be a matter of seconds before he had to make his move- but for the moment, he stumbled along with Robin, laughing. Barney took a gulp from the flask she passed to him, considering his options.
He had to catch her off guard. It had to be timed just right so that she'd reject him.
Robin stopped suddenly, turning to him with a big smile. "I had a fun time tonight, though," she slurred. He couldn't stop looking at her.
"Me too." he said sincerely. Robin giggled, and Barney paused for effect. "I always have fun with you." he told her, not even thinking as the words rolled off his tongue.
Now, Barney thought, was his chance. He moved quickly, leaning in and placing his hand at the back of Robin's head in the same moment. She responded immediately, resting a hand on the lapels of his suit. It was their first kiss in a long time. Barney felt the deja vu, recalling other kisses; besides the fact that Robin tasted of cheap vodka, everything was familiar.
Her fingers were in his hair, touching the base of his neck. Barney knew this wasn't part of the plan, but, kissing her like this, he didn't quite care.
Robin dropped her hand to his shoulder, gripping at him, kissing him with a sort of fervor. And then she pushed him away.
She stuttered, reeling for an excuse, blinking rapidly. With a deep breath, Robin met Barney's gaze. "We can't...we can't do this." she tells him. Barney, playing the part, nods along. "This can't happen." Robin continues, "I've got to go..." she walks away, hands shaking. Barney mumbles a faint "wait," to keep up appearances, but she's already gone. Watching her retreating back, Barney feels a pang and thinks that maybe he's not acting much at all.