~o0o~ ~o0o~ ~o0o~
Shego woke with a start, her tired, bleary eyes staring out into the darkness of her bedroom.
Mmnwutizzit? she thought fuzzily, the sound of her door buzzer ringing again.
She groaned as she rolled over, the bedside clock showing it was no time for visitors.
Someone's gonna die!
She pulled on a robe as she shuffled out of her bedroom, her glowing hand lighting the way across her spacious apartment. And, stopping at the intercom, she stabbed the talk button.
"What?!" she growled.
"Hey, it's me," Kim replied, her subdued voice coming through loud and clear.
Kimmie?
She buzzed Kim into the building without another word, running her fingers through her sleep-tangled hair. A quick adjustment of her robe made her much more presentable and, flicking on the lights, she stared in dismay at the state of her place. Clothes, work stuff, and dirty dishes littered the lounge and kitchen, but a gentle knock on the door told her there was no time to do anything about the mess.
With a quick glance through the peephole, she opened the door.
Kim stood outside in a very stained and rumpled Global Justice uniform, a small travel case behind her. It was the first time Shego had seen Kim in uniform, and while it was long-overdue, it was Kim's mousy brown hair that seemed most out of place. It took Shego a few seconds to recalibrate and, color aside, it was the look on Kim's face that told her everything that she needed to know.
"Ron?" Shego queried.
"Yeah," Kim replied. "Can I…?"
"Always," Shego said, stifling a yawn as she waved Kim in.
"I'm sorry, I know shoulda called first," Kim said, glancing past Shego. "I hope I didn't…?"
"Nah, I'm alone. Been too busy with work for the last month to bring anyone home. Now get yer kaboose inside before I drag you in."
Kim gave her a brittle smile and stepped inside.
This was a bad one, Shego thought, Kim's whole demeanor radiating unhappiness. She rubbed her dry eyes as she closed the door and focused on a friend in need. "I'll make us some coffee, while you–" She stifled a massive yawn. "While you make yourself comfortable in the guestroom."
"No, go back to bed, it's late," Kim replied.
"Kimmie!"
"I'll be fine, really," Kim said, touching her on the arm. "I just need a shower and to crash, especially after the day I've had."
It was an obvious evasion, but Shego could see that whatever had happened between Kim and Ron this time was still too raw and painful for her to talk about.
I could force the issue? Shego thought, holding back another yawn.
"Bed, now!" Kim stated as she took Shego's hand, leading her towards the master bedroom.
Shego wanted to argue, but her lack of proper sleep over the last few days had other ideas. She mumbled something about pushy redhead's as she was tucked into bed, asleep before Kim had even left the room.
~o0o~
Shego's apartment was dead quiet, then came a soft knock on her bedroom door. After a few seconds … a second knock, the door cracking open.
"Shego, you awake?" Kim whispered.
It was pitch dark inside the room, the apartment behind Kim in darkness as well.
She bit her lip as she clutched her Pandaroo plushy a little tighter, then slipped inside.
Bad idea! Bad idea! Bad idea! Kim chanted as she searched for and found the side of the bed.
She glanced over at the doorway, took a deep breath, then slipped beneath the covers and let the unique scent of her bed-buddy finally calm her troubled soul.
Good idea, Kim thought, drifting off to sleep.
~o0o~
Shego woke to the sound of muffled music filling her bedroom. And while she wasn't against the catchy pop tune, it took her a few moments to piece together the how and why.
Oh yeah, Kimmie's here.
She loved having Kim all to herself, even if it was only for a few days. She smiled as she rolled onto her back, her hand encountering something beneath the sheets.
Hm?
She freed the mystery object from the covers and stared at Kim's Pandaroo.
This…
She turned the plush companion this way and that.
Unexpected…
She glanced between the toy that Kim never slept without and the door a few times, still trying to comprehend what had happened.
Kimmie slept with me? What da fuck?
For Shego, the biggest change after the Lorwadian Invasion had not been her amnesty, it had been the discovery that she liked girls as well as guys. It had come as a complete surprise. Soft curves and sultry voices as enticing as broad shoulders, muscles and bravado. Yet it had taken a string of female lover's to realize the impossible, that she liked Kim. That she had feelings for her. She had wanted to deny it because she was a badass former villain who didn't go in for such cliché entanglements. Yet the possessiveness she had always felt towards Kim, the thrill when they battled, and their chemistry…
She had flown too close to the sun and been burned.
The old her would have made her intentions known to Kim, but with her newfound freedom and Kim's blissful happiness with Ron she had decided to leave them be and get on with her life. So she had traded in the secluded mountain lairs for the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles as she started up her own international security firm. Then in her own unorthodox way she had owned her new-found sexuality by coming out to the world. Kim had been there the next day to show her support and to tell her the exciting news: that she and Ron were moving to Los Angeles as well. Then and there Shego had caved, deciding that Kim was worth pursuing after all. And while Kim had never shown any inclination towards women … Shego knew if she played her cards just right and the stars aligned … then maybe, just maybe.
Now here they were … not in a relationship or dating, but neither had Kim rebuffed her subtle advances.
I'm wearing her down, Shego thought, glaring at Pandaroo. But she's still too naive to see what's right in front of her. Or to leave Ron.
She resisted the urge to toss Pandaroo aside, and instead placed it gently back on the bed.
I'm so fuckin' cursed!
She glanced at her ensuite bathroom and considered a shower, but her need for coffee superseded all. Sitting up, she pulled on a robe and opened the door.
Oh!
Music filled the apartment as did the enticing smell of bacon and other delectables. None of them mattered. She stood there with her mouth open as she watched Kim dance around the kitchen in some sexy lingerie as she sang into a spatula.
I'm so fuckin' blessed!
A part of Shego registered that Kim's hair was once again it's natural fiery red and that Kim had flour on most of her exposed skin, but it was the lacy green chemise and matching panties that stole her breath away. The apparel was a big change from the usual as Kim always dressed modestly when she stayed over, no leaving the bathroom in a towel or wandering around in just her underclothes.
She's going to be the death of me, Shego thought, faintly.
Kim continued to sing into her spatula, oblivious to her audience. She pirouetted with her eyes closed and grabbed some oven mitts, then bent over and opened the oven door.
Shego stared at Kim's flexing ass as it moved in time to the music.
That… needs a closer inspection, Shego thought. She snuck forwards, her quarry none the wiser as she stopped right behind her. "You look–"
Kim yelped as she jumped and spun, her hands clenched into fists inside the oven mitts.
"You look good in green," Shego said, finishing her sentence.
"Geez Louise, Shego! You scared me to death!" Kim exclaimed, breathing heavily.
"Hey, it's not my fault you've grown rusty playing the model Global Justice agent."
Kim poked her tongue out in reply.
Shego waited for Kim to react about being caught in the sexy lingerie. It was the perfect mix of lace and silk, leaving the best bits to one's imagination – and she had a very good imagination.
Kim brushed her hair back, seemingly unconcerned with her appearance.
Ohh, this is too good! Shego thought. She's forgotten what she's wearing, or not wearing. She smirked, sensing an opportunity for fun. "Just admit you're past your prime. That I'm better than you."
"As if!" Kim replied, whip fast. She put her hands on her hips – a totally Kim move – and thrust out her chest in defiance.
Shego bit her lip as she admired the shape of Kim's breasts through the thin fabric. And while her own t-shirt and boxers weren't the sexiest sleepwear, they were definitely more interesting than regular clothes. She readied a cheeky reply, then came up with something better.
"Food?" Shego queried, gesturing at the still open oven.
"Oh yeah!" Kim replied, and she turned around and bent over.
Fuck me! Shego thought, staring at Kim's ass. The lacy panties made it so biteable and definitely fuckable. Flames flickered around her fingers as she itched to touch, but first…
"The one thing I love about my apartment is the view," Shego said, inching closer.
"Hmm?" Kim replied.
"Because I see London, I see France." She poked Kim's butt with a finger. "I see Kimmie without any pants!"
Kim shot up straight.
Shego had never seen her so speechless before and she admired how Kim defiantly refused to turn around and face her.
Turn and face me or keep showing me your perfect little butt, Shego thought. Decisions, decisions, Princess. She could almost feel Kim's indecision and it was like catnip to her. "It's a good look," she drawled. "Regulation GJ pyjamas, are they?"
Kim's jaw open and closed soundlessly for a moment before she walked stiff-backed around the counter and quickly donned a robe, overzealously doing it up. Only then did she turn and face Shego, her cheeks crimson in embarrassment.
"Sooo…?" Shego asked, closing the oven.
"I… um, yeah," Kim said as she shuffled back to check on the bacon.
"I wasn't lying, you do look good in green," Shego said as she set out two plates on the counter.
"You– You weren't meant to see– I didn't think–" Kim took a deep breath. "I mean, I didn't hear you get up."
Shego did not reply, she just stood there silently, patiently. It was the perfect interrogation technique for the situation, especially when the person did not know they were being interrogated. Still, Kim lasted longer than she expected, Kim serving up their kings-sized breakfast before cracking.
"Look, absolutely everything was still dirty from my mission!" Kim said, glancing at her. "And I… ah, bought the outfit just before flying home. It was meant to be a surprise for Ron."
Shego nodded, saying nothing.
"It's just– I was up early sorting out some stuff, and then I kinda got carried away. Did my laundry and yours, then cleaned the living room and the kitchen."
Shego glanced around, noting how clean the apartment was.
"Since the… outfit was my only set of clean clothes, I borrowed one of your robes. Then I started to make you breakfast, as a way of saying thanks. But I didn't want to get your robe all dirty. Me and cooking, ya know?"
It was an adequate explanation, but there were still some very big questions left unanswered as far as Shego was concerned
"I really, really didn't expect you to be awake before I was done," Kim mumbled.
She's happy, or at least not moping about like she normally does after a fight with Ron, Shego thought. I'll give her a pass for once. Besides, I've still got her Pandaroo, so that'll give us a lot to talk about later tonight. "No need to be embarrassed, Kimmie. Yours isn't the first sexy butt to dance around my kitchen. Hell, I'll even slide you into the top ten, howsabout that?"
She picked up her plate and walked away, smiling to herself. She knew there was nothing Kim could say or do that wouldn't get her into trouble. Argue or agree, either way they would be right back to discussing Kim's sexy dance routine.
Wait for it…
"What do you mean–" Kim snapped, before cutting herself off.
Almost had you, Kimmie.
"I'd like to see you do better," Kim mumbled as she caught up to Shego.
"What was that, Cupcake?"
"Uh, balcony? I've kinda commandeered the table."
Any other girl and I'd bend you over the table, Shego thought as she took in the dining room table and Kim's Global Justice laptop sitting with pride of place on top. It was no secret that she had an unending hatred for Global Justice and anything to do with them. And yes, the irony was not lost on her that Kim was now an agent. She eyed the laptop like a coiled snake, breakfast forgotten. In the past she had tried to smash it, hit it with an axe, throw it out the window, and even upload it with viruses, but Kim had been there each and every time to save it.
"What's it doing here?" she snarled, even as she took in all the documents around the computer.
"New mission," Kim said, stepping between Shego and the table.
"You just got back from a mission!"
"I know, I know, but they're not taking advantage of me, honest! It's a… high priority, time sensitive mission, and me and my team are the closest. It's just for tonight, max!"
"Kimmie?!"
"It's just a simple– Look, you know I can't talk about my missions. That they're totally classified."
Shego eyed the multiple printouts, the screensaver hiding any other information. She rolled her eyes as Kim defensively closed the laptop, quickly shuffling it and all the paperwork into a bag.
Time sensitive and just for tonight? Shego thought. "So the mission's in Malibu, then?"
"Can't say," Kim replied.
"Los Angeles?"
"Not talking."
"California?"
"Walking away now."
Shego opened her mouth to pry some more, but Kim took her arm and steered her towards the balcony. It was a dirty trick, this closeness. It had become Kim's signature move to calm these situations, and Shego hated herself for how effective it was.
~o~
Shego silently grumbled to herself about sexy redhead's in lingerie as she sat down, her apartment's balcony overlooking the sun-dappled ocean and its beach.
Another perfect day in Malibu, she thought.
She had spent so many years in secret lairs and second-rate hideouts that the view still entranced her. Yet as breathtaking as the panorama was, the woman sitting opposite her was even more beautiful. She subtly followed Kim's neckline down to the robe below, knowing full well what Kim was wearing underneath. The fantasy came all too easily, the table sent flying as they crashed together, Kim's robe parting beneath her eager hands.
She blinked as warm fingers touched her wrist.
"Penny for your thoughts," Kim asked, smiling at her.
Shego glanced down at the hand now resting on hers, then back up. There was warmth and more on Kim's face, and she watched as Kim realized what she was doing, the hand slowly shifting away.
It's times like this that I should say something, Shego thought, admiring the blush on Kim's cheeks.
"You… just seemed really happy," Kim said, filling the silence.
"I was, and as for my thoughts," Shego said, nibbling on some bacon. "It's that you're in a good mood this morning."
"Yeah, I really am," Kim replied, playing with her food. "I know you normally have to drag me out of bed and get me to eat, but I woke up and decided I really, really wanted to do something nice for you. So I started cleaning, got carried away, and then the mission came in. And before I knew it everything had just faded away."
"And then I surprised you?" Shego said.
"Yeah, you totally did," Kim replied, touching the collar of her robe.
And now for the elephant in the room. "So what's up with you and Ron?" This time.
Kim's eyes darted about before settling on the ocean.
"I… still can't believe you got such a nice apartment, and right on the waterfront too," Kim said.
Really, Kimmie? Being evasive? Okay, I'll play along for now. "Like I said, contacts." And a whole lotta blackmail.
"Don't suppose your contacts could help me?"
"Only if you've got a few million to toss around?"
"I don't even have a few hundred right now."
Shego paused at that statement.
"Ron, he invested our life savings into a Super El Grande Bueno Nacho restaurant in New York, that hasn't even been built yet." Kim said, giving Shego a brittle smile. "We're completely broke."
Ohh, the absolute doofus!
"I was off grid and couldn't be contacted, so he just went ahead and did it." She let out a big sigh. "I know we have our problems, like most couples, but I try and make it work. Yeah, I'm away from home for days, sometimes weeks at a time."
"It's the nature of the job," Shego said, offhandedly.
"Yes! Precisely! It's nature of the job. The mission always comes first." Kim crossed her arms on the table and leaned forwards. "But he's dreamed of owning a Bueno Nacho's restaurant since forever, so how can I be angry with him? I'm living my dream, it wouldn't be fair to crush his."
"But you got angry with him?"
"I did. He blindsided me, and I didn't handle it well. I was just so– so upset with him, even though I didn't want to be. We've both been through so much over this last year."
"Kimmie, no! We both know where I stand on him, so no. You've been through a lot, he's barely done a thing. He dropped out of Global Justice during orientation, was living off you until you pushed him into work and then study, and now this!"
She could see Kim already shaking her head as the conversation headed towards its obvious conclusion.
"I know he used to be your best friend, and he can be again. But you need to seriously think about leaving him!"
There, she had said it at last.
"No!" Kim exclaimed. "I mean, no," she said, far softer. "He's everything I want, in a guy."
"Kimmie, just think about it?"
"I– I can't! I like being with Ron," Kim whispered. "I'm happy with him."
"C'mon, you're the youngest ever GJ graduate, and youngest agent to get their own command." She took Kim's hand and squeezed it. "Use some of those brains and assess your situation?"
"I…"
"I know he's not a bad guy, but maybe he's not the one for you? So just promise me you'll think about it, and I won't bring it up again. Then we'll kick back and relax and have a girls weekend. Deal?"
She crossed her arms and sat back, her face impassive. It was tough love, but it needed to be done. Yes, she was totally biased when it came to Kim, but that was not the point. Kim needed to be free of Ron so she could truly live her life.
"Okay… I'll think about it," Kim murmured.
Yes! Finally! Shego silently cheered. "Then, that's all I have to say on the matter. Now, to help you with your comings and goings, I've got a spare key for you. And as for your money situation, I can–"
"It's a wonderful offer, but I– That's Ron and I, have to do this on our own. I've already talked to a few people about our finances, and things will be okay, eventually."
"Your call," Shego said.
"I mean it, Shego."
"I'm agreeing with you."
"And I know that face!" Kim said, pointing at her.
"My truth face?"
"No, your 'I'm going to do whatever I want' face!"
"'Tis a good face, one of my best," Shego said, flicking her hair back.
"Agree to disagree," Kim replied, rolling her eyes.
"Kimmie, we both know you're far too independent to ask for help. So I'm just going to do it."
"I can't let you!"
"Tough!"
"Shego!" Kim said, throwing her hands in the air.
"Kimmie!"
They stared at each other, before Kim shook her head in resignation.
"Here you are trying to help me, and I'm fighting it," Kim said. "Okay, I surrender. Since you're not going to take no for an answer, are you?"
"Would you?" Shego replied.
"But I'm paying you back, every penny."
"As you wish."
"Geez, next thing I know, you'll be helping me with my missions."
Shego's eyebrows shot up in interest.
"No!" Kim said, raising a finger. "No no no no no! It's not happening! Besides, you hate Global Justice!"
"I do, more than a Drakken monologue. But I've been working non-stop on a project for the last few weeks, and I'd love a chance to get out and punch some faces."
"It can't be done!"
"Why? You know we work well together."
"The sheer amount of paperwork, even for one night!"
"Remember how we handled Aviarius and his giant flamingo? The two of us against the Lowardians?"
"You've never even met my team, let alone worked with any of them!"
"We'll ditch 'em."
"You'd have to wear the uniform!"
"I'm out!" Shego stated, holding up her hands in surrender. There were some lines she would never cross.
"Aww, but you'd look so cute in the uniform," Kim said, leaning in.
"Says the girl in the sexy lingerie," Shego fired right back.
They both turned away, lost in their own thoughts. And after a few moments of silence, Kim held out her hand.
"Truce?" Kim asked, her serious tone offset by the amused dimples in her cheeks.
"Truce!" Shego replied, shaking Kim's hand. "Plus, I'm starving."
"Me too. Though, it's gotten a little cold," Kim said, poking the bacon on her plate. "I know I'm a terrible cook, but I tried really hard with this."
"Then let me show you an old trick."
Shego mentally rolled up her sleeves as she positioned her hand over Kim's plate and, igniting her Glow, she instantly reheated Kim's breakfast. She did the same with her own, the food on their plates now steaming hot.
"My hero!" Kim gushed with overdone enthusiasm.
Shego snorted in reply as she tucked into her breakfast, but after a few mouthfuls she realized that Kim kept glancing at her with a quizzical look on her face.
"What's up?" Shego asked.
"Your Glow, that was kinda unexpected," Kim replied.
"The reheating?"
"No, the no exploding."
"It can do a lot when I'm not mind-fucked."
"You never said."
"You never asked."
Shego went back to her breakfast, enjoying the frustrated pout on Kim's lips. It was absolutely adorable.
"C'mon, you can't just leave it there?" Kim asked.
"Woman of mystery, remember?" Shego replied.
"Not to me."
It was true. Kim knew so many of her foibles these days. A happy by-product of their friendship. Shego filled her mouth with some bacon and eggs and chewed slowly, once again enjoying Kim's frustration. Swallowing, she took a long, slow sip of her orange juice just to tease out the delay out some more.
"And?!" Kim asked, as soon as Shego put her glass down.
"You're not old enough," Shego replied, smirking as she skewered some mushrooms.
"This again?" Kim said, intercepting Shego's fork with her own. "I'm nineteen, so spill!"
"What else can it do?" She held up her hand and extended her middle and index fingers, lighting them up with her Glow. "Let's just say that the girls are way more appreciative than the guys."
"What do you–" Kim began, then her eyes went wide. "OH?!" she exclaimed, her eyes flicking between Shego's face and the glowing fingers.
"Uh-huh," Shego said, going back to her breakfast.
"I mean– Really? Um, like… wow!"
Shego never talked about her love life with Kim. And likewise, Kim had never talked about her intimate relations with Ron. While talking about sex wasn't taboo, it was a topic that they had both just steered clear of. Shego did it because she was afraid she would give away her intentions towards Kim, and she assumed Kim did it because of proprietary.
~o0o~
Shego walked back inside with her empty plate, and paused. She eyed the blank spot on the table where Kim's laptop had been and with it came a single-mindedness about why it had been there in the first place.
A time sensitive mission and just for tonight? Shego thought. She glanced back at Kim. Could it be for…? Nah. Maybe…? Nope. Perhaps…? Nada.
Until…
"Your soirée tonight, It's a catch and release mission, isn't it?" Shego said.
"What?!" Kim exclaimed, stopping next to her. "How can you possibly know that?"
"Well, your reaction for one. And secondly, I know the GJ handbook."
"That's not fair!"
"I never play fair, that's why you like hanging out with me."
"I will neither confirm or deny any and all of the above!" Kim replied, poking her tongue out.
It was pink and perfect and Shego suddenly wanted it so badly. She needed Kim on the bed, to straddle that gorgeous face and to grind herself on Kim's waiting mouth. Shivering at the fantasy, she ogled Kim's ass as Kim walked away.
"Cat got your tongue?" Kim asked, glancing back.
"Do me!" Shego blurted out.
Kim stopped on the spot.
Oh crap! Shego thought.
It had been a stupid thing to say. A year of planning and playing the long game, and she had ruined it all because she was suddenly horny. She frantically searched for a way out, as 'forget I said anything' was not an option.
Think, ya idiot! Think!
Kim slowly turned, a myriad of emotions flickering across her face as she walked back towards Shego.
Dammit! Think! Shego thought, taking a step backwards.
"Do you?" Kim asked, stopping right in front of Shego.
"I mean… seduce me, because of your mission," Shego said, clutching at straws.
"Oh?"
"That's what your team will be doing, right?" Shego said, desperately following her train of thought. "Seducing the target and stealing their tech, then uploading some GJ spyware onto it, and then returning it unnoticed?"
"Well, yes. It's more covert work than seduction, but when we have to."
"So then, as mission coordinator, you have to be ready to step in if all else fails?"
"That's what's required of my position, yes. But my team never fails. So what's that got to do with, you know… seducing you?"
"Kimmie, you can't lie. You're terrible at it. And seducing a target involves lying in a pretty big way.
"I can lie… if I have to."
"No, you can't," Shego said, shaking her head. "Your honesty is one of the best things about you. And let's not forget," she held up a finger, "you get totally flustered whenever you try and chat someone up."
"That's when it's real, and back in High School. This is a mission!" Kim said, crossing her arms. "So I'm perfectly capable, thank you very much."
Shego knew it wasn't the right time to push, but her head no longer had a say in the matter.
"I'll believe it when I see it," Shego said. "So show me your moves."
"Um…" Kim replied.
"C'mon, do me!"
"Well, you see– It's just that–" Kim said as she became super tongue-tied. "I, ya know…" She took a deep breath. "Look, it's because it's you! And– and everything," she said, gesturing wildly.
"Me?"
"Yes, you! It'd be super-awkweird."
"So you're saying your 'anything's possible for a Possible' days are behind you?"
Kim's eyes narrowed.
"Sit!" Kim growled as she pointed at a stool, her tone brooking no dissent. "I'm gonna seduce the pants off of ya!"
"That's the whole point of seduction," Shego replied.
"I know!"
"Good!"
"Good!"
~o~
Shego felt light-headed as she walked over and sat at the kitchen counter, her heart racing.
This is actually going to happen?
She stared straight ahead, straining to hear whatever was happening behind her. She knew it would not be real, but she planned to make the most of it. The chance to openly flirt and say things to Kim that she had been holding inside for ages was too big an opportunity to pass up.
She turned as Kim appeared beside her.
Kim awkwardly leaned against the counter, adjusted herself, re-adjusted herself, glanced down, moved her arm a bit, then finally settled her gaze on Shego.
"Heey," Kim said.
"Why hello," Shego replied, flashing Kim a big smile.
"I…" Kim mumbled, her entire face turning red.
Shego raised an eyebrow in question.
"I was just– I mean… I saw you sitting here, and–"
Yeah, she totally sucks at this, Shego thought as she listened to Kim's incoherent babble. She waited a bit more before taking one of Kim's hands and gently squeezing it, not saying a word.
Kim paused mid-ramble, then slumped in defeat.
"It was the 'hey', wasn't it?" Kim asked.
"Nah, that was fine, and believe me I've heard worse," Shego replied. "Hell, even the cheesiest pickup line can work if done right."
"That… doesn't sound right?"
"Trust me."
"You know I do."
"Then here, swap with me," Shego said, sliding out of her chair.
"What?"
"I'll show you how it's done."
"You… uh, wanna-do-me?" Kim asked, wide-eyed.
In so many ways! Shego thought, keeping a straight face. "Just a simple roleplaying scenario, that's all. Nothing that you haven't done before with Global Justice. As for the scene," she said, waving a hand for dramatic effect. "Picture a karaoke bar in downtown Hong Kong; you're alone and drinking to unwind after a hard day at work, and a successful mission of course."
She saw the spark return to Kim's eyes.
"Hong Kong?" Kim queried, glancing at her bedroom door. "Is that because of the travel tag on my suitcase?"
"Yeah, a simple observation, and knowing my mark."
"Mark?"
"Thief term, slip of the tongue." But yes, you are. "Now as for this seduction thing – it's all down to presentation, posture and personality, and what you say really doesn't matter that much."
"I… kinda understand," Kim said as she settled into her seat.
"So eyes front, 'cause it's my turn."
Kim obediently looked straight ahead, her hands shifting nervously on her lap.
I have one chance at this, Shego thought as she stepped back. One chance to truly know if she's interested.
She tuned the stereo to something catchy, then closed the curtains and dimmed the lights. Her robe was tossed aside, it just wouldn't do. And adjusting her shirt, she positioned it off one shoulder before tying up its bottom to expose her midriff. A slight shimmying down of her shorts left even more skin on display and then she combed her hair to one side, leaving one sultry eye focused on her prize.
Time to roll the dice!
~o~
"Why, hello there," Shego said as she arrived next to Kim, her husky tone conveying so much more.
"Hi…" Kim replied, her voice petering out as she looked Shego up and down.
Kim's expression and wandering eyes were everything that Shego could have hoped for. It told her exactly what she needed to know – had ached to know – that this thing between them was real and could be so much more.
She's interested! She's abso-fuckin-lutely interested!
She went weak in the knees – and deeper places – as Kim bit her lip, then she remembered how to breathe and that playtime was far from over. A good imagination had been essential when working for Drakken and so she used it to its fullest as she pictured a karaoke bar around them.
"Crazy in here tonight, isn't it?" Shego said, looking around for dramatic effect.
"Totally," Kim replied, playing along.
"I couldn't help but notice," she whispered, leaning in, "that you've been checking me out since I walked in."
"What?!" Kim squeaked.
"That's okay, I've been checking you out as well."
"Um, really?"
"A stunningly beautiful woman like you, all alone? That's just criminal!"
"Oh?"
"So, can I buy you a drink, or are you expecting company?"
"No, no company. I'm… ah, alone," Kim replied, brushing her hair back.
Shego contained her surprise at Kim's reply. She had expected the boyfriend card so as to play hard to get, not this. It was almost too easy. Dragging two glasses over, she filled them with juice and slid one over to Kim, a finger on top.
"I'm really, you know, just passing through," Kim said, taking her drink.
"Ships passing in the night," Shego replied, sipping her juice.
"Yeah, kinda." Kim replied, then she straightened up and held out a hand. "Hi, I'm Kat."
"Sheridan," Shego replied as she took Kim's hand and brought it up to her lips. "And the pleasure is all mine."
She kept her eyes locked with Kim's as she trailed her lips across the back of Kim's hand, and she was particularly proud of Kim's blush and wide-eyed response at the intimate greeting. She sat down, smiling as Kim's hand stayed in the air for a moment before disappearing onto Kim's lap. Sipping her drink, Shego enjoyed the companionable silence between the two of them before moving on.
"You sing?" Shego asked, the karaoke bar a deliberate choice.
"Love to. You?"
"Occasionally. But I mostly come here for the atmosphere." She pointedly looked at Kim. "And for the company."
"Yeah… the company."
"And your outfit, I love it. Military is it?" Shego asked, picturing Kim in her Global Justice uniform.
"Can't say. It's totally classified."
"So you're like what, a secret agent?"
"Definitely can't say, ya know?"
"Wow! My very own James Bond!"
Kim stifled a giggle at the dramatics.
"So if you're James Bond, doesn't that mean you always get the girl?" Shego said, edging closer. "So howzabout we grab a bottle of something and blow this joint? It's fun in here, but I prefer to get to know people where it's quieter. What do you say, drinks at my place? It's not far, and it's got a great view of the harbor."
She stood up and held out a hand for Kim.
"I, um… I couldn't…" Kim mumbled.
"No strings, just drinks," Shego whispered. "Two ships passing in the night."
"Really… I shouldn't…"
Kim's actions did not follow her words as she tentatively reached out and took Shego's hand.
Shego smiled and winked. Job done. Mission accomplished.
"And that's how easy seduction is," she whispered.
Kim blinked, awareness coming back to her eyes, and only then did she focus on their interlaced fingers. However, she didn't instantly pull away, flashing Shego an uncertain smile.
Shego's resolve crumbled in an instant.
She could not believe what was happening as a thousand possibilities flashed through her mind. The overwhelming desire to pin Kim against the counter and kiss her. And after that … well, the ball would be in Kim's court.
She barely held back a snarl of frustration as somewhere nearby a phone rang.
"That's Ron," Kim mumbled.
Shego slumped back against the counter as she watched Kim rush off to the balcony to answer the call.
Well… fuck!
~o0o~
I had her! Shego thought in annoyance.
She rinsed off another plate and put it in the dishwasher, her eyes continuously flicking back to the patio door. She had given Kim her privacy and taken a long shower, but even after that Kim had still been outside on the phone. So she had watched some television – Kim still busy. Put her washing away – Kim still busy. Folded and put away Kim's clothes – Kim still busy. And now she found herself doing the dishes, her thoughts anywhere but on the task at hand.
I fuckin' had her!
She kept replaying that last moment over and over in her mind, and where it could have gone.
She'd dropped her guard. The moment was right. And just a kiss to seal the deal.
She looked up as the balcony door slammed open, Kim storming back inside. Kim's face was a mixture of anger, annoyance and so much more and she was practically vibrating with emotion.
"Men! I've had it with them!" Kim yelled.
Shego's heart skipped a beat at the statement, the plate she was holding shattering as her hands flared green. She ignored the explosion of steam from the sink as she hurried towards Kim, her thoughts wholly on a friend in need.
"Kimmie?" She had never seen her this upset before, not even during the whole Eric debacle. "Kim?"
"Ron– He– Ooh!" Kim growled out through gritted teeth.
"Slow down, talk to me?"
Kim barely glanced at her as she paced back and forth.
"Tell me what's wrong?" Shego asked.
"What's wrong?" Kim replied, stopping abruptly. "I found out why Ron hasn't returned any of my calls this morning! And do you know why?!"
Shego opened her mouth to reply.
"No, don't bother answering that!" Kim snapped. "I'll tell you why! He's been too busy doing silly promotional work for the restaurant, in New York! He was so caught up in everything that he forgot to tell me. And so distracted that he couldn't be bothered to return my calls or text me, even after everything that happened yesterday!"
The doofus!
"And– Ooh! And–"
"Breath."
"And… The Ron Man," Kim did some air quotes, "told me he's fine with us spending some time apart! He even suggested it! Apparently, I'm harshing his buzz and stifling his creativity when I'm around."
Yeah, he's a complete doofus, Shego thought. "Look, you've always been the steadying hand in the relationship, and you know he never thinks things through. That he's a creature of impulse and habit."
"I know, but still…? Don't ya think?"
Shego did think, her mind racing.
"Fly out and see him." See that you can do better.
"I can't, the mission!" Kim replied. "And I'm already late in getting ready for it."
"Screw the mission!"
"I… I can't. The safety of the world always comes first," Kim replied. "But I'm just so tired, of everything."
"Kimmie?"
"I'll be fine," Kim said, yet everything about her screamed the opposite. "I'm just gonna do my hair and get ready. Sorry to drop all this drama on you."
"Never apologize for shit like this. You know I'm here for you?"
"Yeah, you are."
Shego was surprised as Kim stepped in for a hug, which turned into a much longer embrace than she expected. Slender arms tightened around her before Kim stepped back, Shego watching Kim shuffle off to the bathroom.
~o~
No sooner had the bathroom door closed than Shego heard a soft thud and muffled sobs coming from behind the door, and they broke her heart. Growing up, as a hero, and especially as a villain, she had solved her problems with violence. Even now she still resorted to less than savoury tactics to handle her problems. Yet all of her experiences did nothing to help her with Kim's situation.
She walked over and touched the door, the barrier symbolizing everything between them.
I'm here, if you need me.
She slid to the floor with her back to the door.
She needs cheering up, in a major way. What's something fun that we can do? She closed her eyes and leaned her head back. Well, sex with me would be good. But… maybe something a little less complicated?
She opened her eyes, remembering Kim's laptop.
How about a big win instead?
She sprung to her feet and headed for the balcony with her phone in hand, privacy working both ways after all. Dropping into a seat, she called her company's tech guru.
"Hey boss, what's the sitch?" Wade asked, his cheery voice coming through loud and clear.
"I've got a job for you," Shego replied, swinging her feet up onto the table.
"You want to take on another client? We're already pretty stretched as it is."
"It's a quick one. I just need you to hack into Kimmie's work laptop for me."
"No can do, boss. I've already told you I'm not going to fry it, or… any of those other things you suggested."
"It's nothing like that. I just need all the GJ files on her mission for tonight."
"She's on another mission, already?"
"Yeah, don't even get me started on that! I've already told her what I think about it. Sooo laptop?" She drummed her fingers on the table. "Chop-Chop, time's a wastin!"
"Just the mission details? No other shenanigans?"
"Pixie Scouts honor!"
"Done! The files are in your inbox. And you were a Pixie Scout?"
"Of course not! So don't mention it to Kimmie, or your new Batman statue is slag!"
"Happy to help, boss."
Shego hung up and dragged a hand down her face, but she could worry about the Pixie Scout fallout later. She opened her mail and accessed the files, reading quickly.
Top secret, yeah yeah. Blah, blah, blah – Los Angeles, knew it. Her eyes went wide. No fuckin' way!
~o0o~