Chapter 14: A Non-Relationship in Snapshots Part II

Halloween and Thanksgiving

Halloween passed without much notice or drama, the gang bringing the twins dressed up as Thing 1 and Thing 2 to a close by neighborhood for trick-or-treating. Speedy had convinced the rest of the team to dress up as well, though he was met with much reluctance. Bee, or Daphne from Scooby Doo, and Aqualad, as Fred, held the twins' hands as they visited from door to door. Robin Hood and Maid Marian, or Speedy and Starfire, both joined in the merriment, watching from afar as they traversed Steel City's suburbs.

That night, the last of the monthly parties at the Titans East Tower was held as the twins gorged themselves on their candy haul while the older heroes danced the night away. Almost everyone was in attendance, the dance floor glistening in black, orange, and purples as they did the Monster Mash and jived to I've Put A Spell On You. It was magical for Starfire, much like the last party but less stressful. The original Titans had gotten swept up in a call that prevented them from attending until late in the night. Even then, Robin was a no show, Starfire overhearing Cyborg explain to Kid Flash something about police reports and helping with the interrogation after the takedown. Curled into Speedy's embrace during a slow dance, arms around his neck and head on his shoulder, she savored the moment, but it was tinged with an ounce of discontent that was misplaced in the moment. Admonishing herself for such feelings, she tried with all her might to push all thoughts of her past deep within her, including the knowledge that a certain message was one click away.

She was successful, for the most part, as the leaves turned from their golden hue into dead shells that fell and twisted in the fall breeze. All other Titan gatherings were put on hold as November flew by and many of the heroes went to visit friends and family (or the people they considered family outside the Titans). Two Titans East members were left behind in Steel City to their own devices to celebrate Thanksgiving. While Aqualad went to visit Tramm in Atlantis and Bumblebee traveled to see her grandparents and father in a neighboring town, bringing the twins with her, Starfire and Speedy were left to do as they pleased.

Chinese food was the food of choice for their feast. Lo mein and egg rolls. Chicken, beef, and tofu. Noodles and rice and all the MSG goodness. It was a smorgasbord that thoroughly satisfied the alien princess as Speedy looked at her with curiosity and wonder.

"You can really put it away," he commented, slurping his own concoction ravenously.

On her third plate, she swallowed one of her final forkfuls before speaking. "When you expel energy such as I do, you need to make up for it."

"I guess so," he murmured around his own mouthful. Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, he continued. "I've never heard of mapo tofu before. Is that what you usually get?"

She nodded, not bothering to speak as she continued to eat.

"Easy there, Red. You might want to come up for air."

She swallowed, saying, "Breathing is optional." He laughed, she placing her plate down in front of her, finally satisfied. "It is one of my favorites as it has an interesting flavor. Numbing and spicy. Would you like some?"

"I'll just take your word for it," he said, finishing his meal. Gathering their containers, he put away the leftovers in the fridge and dumped the rest. Leaning across the counter toward the seated Starfire, he absentmindedly picked up one of her hands, playing with her fingers.

"It is quite quiet with everyone gone," she mused, amused as he weaved their hands together, placing a light kiss on the back of her hand.

"We can make a ruckus if you want to," he said playfully, grinning as she pretended to think it over, knowing that two could play that game.

"What is this 'ruckus' you speak of?"

"Alright, alright," he conceded, taking her all in with his gaze. "I think it's nice with everyone gone. Not only do I get you all to myself but I don't have Bee breathing down my neck or the twins threatening to break my legs."

At that Starfire laughed. "I believe they only said that once, but I agree. They have become quite… aggressive."

He huffed in agreement, letting go of her hand momentarily only to flop down next to her on the other side of the table so they were sitting on the same bench. He leaned back, his arm behind her. "You're worth the heckling."

She beamed, turned, and leaned into him, sighing. A moment passed before she changed the subject. "Though I am glad that we get this time, did you not have anyone else you wanted to see on this joyous day?"

They had never broached the topic of family before and Starfire could feel him stiffen. Turning her head, she saw a retrained frown on his features.

After a while, he spoke. "I don't know my mother and my father died a long time ago. Only person I got is Green Arrow and, let's just say, we're not on speaking terms right now."

Starfire had heard that name before. Green Arrow was an extraordinary human and archer that inhabited Star City. Much like Batman, he had taken up a ward, Speedy, to introduce to the superhero lifestyle. Though the two had gone separate ways, it was assumed by everyone that it was amicable.

Right now, it was obvious she had hit a nerve and didn't want to push further. "Oh Roy, I am sorry. I did not mean—"

"It's ok," he amended immediately, flashing a half-hearted smile. "I think most of the Titans network has mommy or daddy issues. I mean, why else would any sane, normal person do what we do?"

Starfire wordlessly nodded, her history and background in the forefront of her mind. But that wasn't all that came to her awareness. She realized Speedy viewed duty and herodom so much differently than most.

"Sorry. Too personal?" he asked, placing a hand on her shoulder to wake her from her thoughts.

She shook her head. "No, it is just… do you not always wish to be a hero? Is there more that you seek to do?"

"Of course there's more I want to do. Maybe travel, have a family, settle down. This life... it was sort of pushed on me. Tragic circumstances molded me, forcing me to have this 'great' talent." He said the last part by adding air quotes, frustrated. "Everything is sacrifice all the time. I think we all deserve to live normal lives eventually, don't you?"

So it wasn't a choice for him. It was an obligation, a weight that he couldn't shake. Though a lifestyle he didn't choose for himself, he did it anyway. To her, she thought it might count for something. It was so vastly different than the mindset driven into her in a past life.

"I am unsure."

And in speaking those words, she let out the truth. She hadn't thought that far ahead yet. Though initially thinking his view may be rooted in selfishness, maybe even laziness, she immediately dismissed it. It was a different opinion. But not wrong.

Duty over heart? Maybe not so.

"Being a Titan is all I have known on Earth," she confessed. "It is hard to imagine a life without serving others." She looked into his masked face, giving a sad smile. "And you were not the only one who was born from tragedy. I would have not joined the Titans had it not been for the actions of my father. Let us just say, he was not… nice."

He gave her a sympathetic look, leaning forward now and placing his arm around her waist, pulling her against him. "What did I say? We've all got daddy issues." Starfire gave a sad giggle, resting her head against his chest. "We all have skeletons in our closet, Red. Some of us are just better at hiding it than others." He gave her a squeeze, sighing, "And I'm always here if you want to talk. Please don't forget that."

Raising her head, she placed a peck on his jaw in a thank you.

Looking up at him and seeing his concerned expression, she took the lead he offered.

"My father was king of my home planet, Tamaran. Born under the house And'r…"

In between slow kisses and comforting, they spent the rest of the long weekend tangled together as to share their past, their future more certain than before.


Date with Destiny

"You got this."

Speedy adjusted the way his sweater sat for the umpteenth time. Dusting the invisible lint off his shoulders and staring in the mirror, he chanted this mantra over and over as he did one last hair check, slicking it down with gel. He then let out a puff of air and put down his comb, shaking out his shoulders as he loosened his body and worked up the nerve to leave his room and make his way to Starfire's. Doing a last pat of his pockets (making sure he had his car keys and wallet) and flowers in hand, he abruptly stopped in his doorway. Lifting his hand to his face, he turned around to take care of one last thing.

Meanwhile, Starfire had been ready for over an hour. Dressed in dark leggings, brown winter boots, and an airy, lavender, long-sleeved shirt, a puffy coat was slung over her chair (as requested by Speedy that she bring) as she sat at her vanity. She made small adjustments to her makeup, adding a tad more blush here and highlighter there. The resulting effect was very minimal but highlighted her natural beauty, her eyes popping against the eye shadow color she chose. Makeup brush against her cheek, she was stopped mid-motion when a knock came at her door.

"Coming!" she called, setting down the utensil. She gave one last look, running her hands through her hair and grabbing her jacket as to make her way to the door.

Before she could hit the control panel, however, the door slid open, her eyes taking him in, bottom to top. He wore brown leather boots as well and jeans that flattered and hugged in all the right places, they slightly cuffed at the bottom. Next followed a dark red, knit sweater that did the same, cutting a nice 'v' that accentuated his shoulders and waist. He had one of his hands in his pocket as he stood before her, that little smirk of his ever-present as he too held a jacket and a bouquet of mixed flowers. Lastly, the finale that caused her to gasp and place her hands to her mouth. His mask was gone, leaving nothing to Starfire's imagination. They were a deep hunter green, sparkling with some mischief as he waited for her to say something, anything.

"Oh…," she said softly.

He grinned, stepping forward to kiss her on the cheek. "You look beautiful," he said, she still stunned. She continued to look as if she was inspecting him, even as he tried backing away. She stopped him, placing a hand on the side of his face.

"And you are most handsome," she finally said, looking at his eyes uninhibited. "They are most glorious." Speedy blushed furiously at that, she continuing. "You did not have to."

"I wanted to," he replied. He cleared his throat, gently removing her hand from his face but remained holding it. "Oh, almost forgot. These are for you." He gave the bouquet to Starfire, the arrangement full of lovely purples and greens. "They reminded me of you."

Taking in their scent, she beamed. "They are lovely, Roy. I thank you."

"Don't thank me yet," he said, tugging her to the hallway towards the common room. "I still have a lot planned for tonight. "

Once the flowers were placed in a vase in the common area, he whisked her away to their unknown destination, taking the sleek, black T Car that Cyborg had built just for Titans East. In incognito mod, it looked just like any other SUV, the interior filled with radar screens and other crime-fighting gadgets the only thing that gave it away. Starfire watched as they traveled through the secret tunnel that connected the Tower to the mainland, under the sea, and into the cliff that the back of the Tower butted against. The tunnel spit them out on a highway at one point and they covered ground as she recognized the many factories that dotted the main skyline of Steel City.

"We are going into the city?" she asked, her mind racing with possible locations and activities they could do, glad she had worn her hologram rings just in case.

He peered at her, slighting shaking his head. "I'm on to you, Red. I'm not giving anything away. Just sit tight and let me handle the rest."

She sighed, merely an observer as they took an exit and drove through the more rundown part of town, trash in piles on the side of the road and broken glass littering the sidewalks. A line of people waited to get into the local homeless shelter, trying to get away from the winter wind. These people deserved better, thought Starfire, glad she had made some impact coming here but knowing there was a long way to go. The buildings started to become wider, taller, and grander quickly as Roy drove expertly through evening traffic. He eventually pulled over, parking close to where she knew downtown to be.

Starfire opened her door, tapping on her hologram rings. Her appearance only transformed so that her hair was a more natural red, her eyes a duller green, eyebrows normal by human standards, and her skin a natural tan. Roy waited as Kori put on her coat, knit hat, and scarf for good measure, obscuring more of her face in the process.

Hand in hand, they walked a block or two before Roy stopped them, the street becoming more alive as people passed by and the sidewalk became more visible, lights dotting the way.

"We're almost there. It's just around the corner," he said. He then gave her a wicked grin, stepping behind her and placing his hands on her eyes.

"Is this necessary?" she asked hesitantly but giggling all the same.

"Oh, yes. Definitely necessary."

She stepped with him as she fumbled along, wondering how long they had to go. Her question was answered almost immediately as he stopped her from going forward anymore.

"Ok, Miss Impatient. Open them."

His scratchy wool gloves left her eyes. Blinking away the blurriness, and because of the sheer number of lights, her eyes had to adjust to the sights before her.

"Oh, Roy," Kori breathed.

It was a holiday wonderland.

People poured in from the side roads as they made their way across the street to the main square. Bulbs of every color and shape were hung from all the trees that bordered the park. Tall poles of wood stood with lights strung around and between them as they bordered the footpaths. It was like a maze that one could easily get lost in. Garden arches twinkled with more lights as couples cozied up to each other as they walked underneath. Though almost evening, it was bright, the settled snow reflecting all the sources of light.

Right next door was something Kori had never seen before. Little red huts with black roofs seeming to stretch the length of the block, going around the corner to somewhere unseen. Again, their frames were outlined with white string lights, emanating a glow to illuminate the pathways. Savory and sweet. The bite of cinnamon. All the smells filled the air, the stalls the source with some of them walk-ups or inviting people in to see their merchandise. At the entrance to the fair, a wooden sign read in red cursive writing, Steel City Christkindlmarket.

"Come on," he beckoned, she still overwhelmed by the sight in front of her. She did as she was commanded, feeling as giddy as a child and trying her hardest not to engage her flight.

They made their way through the park portion first. Dotted around the walking path were various artisans that carved ice or created elaborate snow sculptures. A penguin was being formed in the ice, peaking out as the man carved with a chainsaw while they walked under an archway made of packed snow. Roy caught Kori's swinging, gloved hand in his own as she admired the figures around them. She glanced at Roy, a faint blush staining her cheeks as they continued on their way, hand in hand. Admiring the string lights as they twinkled and weaved through the trees, a humongous Christmas tree stood in the center with an ice rink path weaving around it. It was much like the one they were on but covered in glittering ice that skaters speeded on by effortlessly.

Kori bounced on the balls of her feet as they waited in line for their skates. Shoes finally in hand after what felt like ages to her, they sat on a nearby bench, Roy being quite the gentleman as he kneeled and laced up her boots for her. She appreciated his effort, especially when he helped her walk precariously over to the trail's opening. They wobbled together, Kori especially unsteady as she gripped onto Roy's arm vicelike, he just grinning madly as he dragged her somewhat effortlessly through various curves. Getting more confident on her feet, she let go of him to propel herself forward, her increased speed may or may not being supplemented by her flight. He crept up behind her, speed skating so he could place his hands on her waist to increase their acceleration further. She squealed as they completed a few laps.

"You are the speed demon," she said, turning her head so he could hear her.

He only pushed faster momentarily, sensing her apprehension as she abruptly placed her hands on his and squeezed, rearing backward. He slowed then, taking them to an easy glide and stepping beside her.

She pretended to pout, crossing her arms. "That was not funny."

"Aw, you know you loved it," he teased. He now skated to get in front of her, turning around so they were now face to face. "They don't call me Speedy for nothing," he said just for her ears. He showed off, moving backward without even looking as to when the next curve was coming.

Seeing his eyes twinkle with humor, it made her melt. She decided she loved the color green. Not any old green, though. A green like the pines that surrounded them. Earthy and rich.

She allowed an easy smile but then said, "Well, I hope you are not fast in all regards, Mr. Harper."

Oh, the look on his face.

Mouth hanging open, he picked up his jaw and shook his head, barking out a laugh. "I really have rubbed off on you. Not sure that's a good thing or a bad one."

Grabbing his wrists, she pulled him closer, as if to share a secret. "I believe it to be a good thing."

"Let's hope for your sake, you're right."

Faces flushed with cold and laughter, they exited the ice path, skates returned, as to properly enter the German market. Gingerbread wafted through the air as the cookies hung from strings like ornaments on every stall. Various knickknacks including beer steins, Christmas decorations, and other tchotchkes adorned the booths as their vendors called out to passersby, beckoning them to check out their wares. As they traversed the shops, Kori talked to an older woman whose booth had caught her eye. Catching her heavy accent, Kori began conversing in German, much to the vendor's delight. She ended up picking up some late Christmas gifts for her Secret Santa at the stall, waving goodbye as they made it to the food portion of the market as they had worked up an appetite.

Hot wine was being mulled before Kori's eyes as Roy opted to get them some hot chocolates at the same store instead. Handing the cup to her, it warmed her hands as they continued their exploration. Schnitzel and sweets and chestnuts and pretzels and currywurst galore as they walked down the aisle. Roy explained what each was and they stopped so Kori could get a pretzel with extra sweet mustard while he got currywurst with extra ketchup.

Taking their haul to a standing table, they were quick to dispose of their mittens and winter gloves to dig in.

"Glorious," Kori exclaimed through a mouth of the bread, going in for seconds and soaking it in the condiment quite ravenously.

Roy chuckled. "Easy, tiger," he said, eager to tuck into his meal as well.

Peeking up at her, he chewed thoughtfully as he experienced Kori's childlike merriment unfold before him. He had witnessed it all night, but she was especially exuberant as a man came up on a nearby stage, he starting to play the accordion.

Clapping along, Kori was oblivious as Roy decided that this was her purest and his happiest form. Everything was new and wonderful to her and it was hard not to be infected by it. He had never met anyone that saw things like her, made him feel the things he felt right now and in the last few weeks. It was striking to think that so many great things could happen in such a short time. And to cap it all off with a night of perfection like tonight? He couldn't have planned it better if he tried. He never wanted it to end. Especially knowing what was coming in the next few days.

As the musician continued his set, Kori turned back to the table, addressing Roy with merriment in her eyes. "Is this not the most wonderful music you have ever heard?"

"Yeah, I guess so," he chuckled, not wanting to burst her bubble. "If you like this, you'd get a kick out of bagpipes."

"Bagpipes?" she queried, now curious.

He leaned into the table, pulling out his phone and earbuds. After going down the rabbit hole of YouTubing for her various instruments, and her comparing them to some on her home world, they loitered some more, long after the original musician had left and their plates empty. People had started to leave, his phone indicating it was well past curfew and vendor lights flickering out, but he didn't want it to end. It seemed like Kori had the same idea, leaning across the table, not budging one bit.

"So, I guess this is the last hurrah before you leave in a few days," he mused. Taking his time, he scratched his fingernail into the wood table, not sure how to say this. "I'm going to miss you," he finally confessed, the rare admission from him surprising Kori.

Having her full attention, he met her eyes as she reached across the table, stilling his hand.

"And I shall do the missing of you as well. It is only for the week. And we still have a few more days before my departure."

"Yeah, I know."

So much he wanted to say but words failed. He wanted to bring up what was on the forefront of his mind, knowing he couldn't, shouldn't. Knowing who she might be possibly seeing almost sending him in a bad mood, but he stopped himself. Tonight was about her. About them.

"Please, do not do the pouting," she teased, bringing him out of his contemplation. "I cannot stand it when you pout."

"I'm not," he said, definitely more whiny than he intended.

She giggled but soon became more serious. "We can do the calling and the texting. I promise to have some form of contact with you every day. You have nothing to fear."

"Promise?" he asked. It was a loaded question, more than it appeared. He knew. She knew. From the way that her face soften and her grip tightened, she knew. He let go a breath as she did not falter once.

"I do the promising."

She dropped his hand only to hold out her pinkie. Smiling, he shook his head, hooking his finger with hers.

"You know that pinkie promises are legally binding on Earth, right?" he joked, now back to his old self.

Smiling and glad they were back to safer territory, she wasn't quite sure if he was serious. "No…?"

"Well, there's no takesy backsies now," he quipped. "You are legally contracted and obligated to fulfill that promise. I will require one Starfire session a day. No ifs ands or buts about it."

"We will make it work," she assured.

Coming around the table, he offered her his arm which she gladly took, Kori letting out an unintended yawn. They decided to end such a wonderful night on a high note, Roy comforted by the promises made.


It was late into the night, or early the next day, when the two heroes finally pulled back into the Tower.

Once slamming the car doors shut, Speedy hit the lock button on the key fob, the noise sharp and unwelcome in the pair's ears as it bounced around the garage.

They walked in relative silence from the garage to the elevator, the pair reaching their designated floor and began walking down the hallway.

As they both paused before her door and Speedy stood awkwardly as the silence grew, he scuffed the toe of his boot on the floor, hands in his pockets as she looked at him expectantly.

"So…" he said, for once unsure and clearing his throat.

"So," she said, with a glint in her eye and a smile forming. She found him so endearing at that moment. He had been so gentlemanly and slow with her, today and all the days before. But she didn't want that now. Now, she wanted him. All of him.

He finally obliged her, as if reading her mind. Making the first move, he stepped toward her and tugged on her hands, one side of his mouth lifting as he guided her arms around his waist. Cupping her face with a cold hand that made her shiver with anticipation, he kissed her with feeling, a burst of warmth that contrasted with the hands that were pressed into her skin.

It was gentle. It was wanted. It was unsatisfactory. Starfire held him closer, pressing her body into him, biting his lower lip.

Speedy got the hint.

Now that he was allowed to taste, now that he was allowed to touch, he couldn't get enough.

He was entrapped by her, her lips glossy and perfect as they moved against his rough mouth. Yearning for more as his hands moved to be splayed on her lower back, she felt every bit of him as their bodies were pressed together by the sheer force of their attraction for one another. She ran her fingers up his back and into the nape of his neck, daring to run them through his hair, causing him to chuckle against her lips.

She eased him into her room, pressing the button to allow the sliding doors to open and pulling him into darkness. He raised his brow but followed with their lips still attached.

Bodies jostled onto the bed and Starfire took the dominant position. Sitting on his waist, hair curtained around his face as it tickled eyelids, cheeks, the corner of his mouth, and everywhere else.

"So much hair," Speedy chuckled and sputtered as some got close to his mouth. He playfully batted some away, now raising up on his elbows to peck at her neck.

In one motion, Starfire swept the rest of her mane to the other side, giving him better access. "Better?" she breathed.

"The best," he cheeked. His lips lingered leisurely up and down until he quickly flipped her on her back, a small 'eep' admitting from her. He swallowed her laughter, his hands trailing up shin, thigh, and waist. Hers fisted in his shirt, untucking it from his belt.

"You sure, Red?" he huffed, but he was already helping, lifting his sweater up and over his head.

She ogled him, not able to resist running a hand over his abs. She licked her lips and lifted her eyes to meet his. "I have not been more sure of anything," she said, her lidded eyes shifting from lust to something a little bit softer.

He was set on fire. It was a look to end all looks as her enthusiasm rubbed off on him. A soft smile on his lips, he recaptured hers and cupped her face.

Tenderness and a sense of urgency at the same time. The sounds of belts unclipping, and garments slipping over the side of the bed. A bra expertly unhooked and flung across the room. A pair of tight, fitted jeans slipped down and down and …. oh my.

It was how many envision how a first time should be. Slow and savored with giggles thrown in as they explored each other. Purrs and moans and breath intermingled with words of encouragement.

"How about now?"

"No, a little faster… now slower. There."

"Damn, Red, I love it when you're demanding."

"Less talking, more with the making of love."

He did what she demanded. Would do whatever she wanted as touch lingered and an ache built up within him that threatened to burst. She shifted below him, writhing, breast bouncing, and she was so warm, wet, wonderful. Her eyes sizzled with desire and hair splayed in every direction, a crimson halo. Hands gripped his biceps and he could tell they were almost there. A few more thrusts to coax her over the edge. His hand gripped around a wrist, pinned above her head, while the other ran down her arched back.

She had not felt like this in a long time. Her heartbeat could be felt through her entire body as she sung with the physical touch she had been denied for so long. He seemed to engulf her being, feeling as though he was everywhere at once as strong arms held her, muscles rippled with every move as he shifted inside her. She demanded release as long, leisurely strokes turned more frantic and erratic. As he hung above her, she met him in the middle, attaching their lips as to give permission to tumble over the edge.

A shutter from him and a cry of relief, his head fell and found a resting spot in the crook of her neck.

She tensed and spun for a small eternity, only feeling the pressure of lips on her collar bone which grounded her to reality.

Everything felt safe and familiar.

"Oh, Robin."

Barely a murmur, not even a whisper, but there all the same.

Speedy, having had hit post-climax clarity, lifted his head.

"What did you just say?" he whispered.