Writer's Note:
For in this dance between pen and psyche, where does fiction end and reality begin? Beware, dear reader, for sometimes even the writer cannot discern.
The on-call room's dim ambiance slowly stirred to life as morning rays filtered in, casting soft beams of light that danced on the closed blinds. Arizona, cocooned on the bottom bunk, stretched languidly, her limbs protesting the less-than-ideal sleep conditions. The stiffness in her neck and the sharp tang of hospital antiseptic prompted her to check the time on her smartwatch. A pang of realisation hit her – she had overslept. Rounds were approaching fast, and there was no time for her customary morning shower.
Mind racing, she decided to prioritise, thinking, 'Quick change into scrubs, then rounds, and perhaps, a shower later'. The plan formed, she began to strip off her crumpled T-shirt, and started rummaging through her overnight bag.
Callie, from her vantage point on the top bunk, had an uninterrupted view of Arizona's graceful form. She had been awake for a while now but was too comfortable to actually wake up and leave. Besides Arizona looked so cute in her unguarded sleeping form on the bottom bunk, that she couldn't help but stare dreamily.
Her gaze travelled down the arch of Arizona's back, taking in the smooth porcelain skin, the cute freckles, the delicate curve of her spine, and the faintest hint of the bra strap. In that brief moment, Callie found herself wishing that there was nothing obstructing her view – no fabric, no boundaries.
"Ahem.."
The faintest sound – a throat clearing – caused her movements to freeze mid-stretch. The sound, a subtle disruption in the room's stillness, came from above. Arizona turned, her eyes locking with that of the brunette on the top bunk. Her mind raced. She hadn't expected company.
Feeling suddenly exposed, Arizona snatched a fresh scrub top from her bag and hastily draped it across her torso, a tinge of embarrassment colouring her cheeks. "When did you come in?" she asked, attempting to keep her voice steady and casual.
Callie swung her legs over the side of the bunk, landing softly on the ground. Standing to her full height, she replied, "Late last night. It was...a long evening."
Arizona felt the weight of Callie's gaze, each look intensifying the electricity in the air. Callie's eyes seemed to trace every curve, every contour of her body.
There was no mistaking the dark gaze Callie held or the slight heat in her eyes. Arizona, well-acquainted with the language of desire, felt a frisson of excitement at the realisation that someone as breathtaking as Callie Torres was probably attracted to her. It had been so long since someone has looked at her this way, with this kind of desire. Her own marriage to Carina, though once a burning passion, had cooled to embers in just half a year.
But as quickly as the thrill came, it was followed by guilt. She was married. This was not her world to explore. And as much as every fibre of her being longed for more – more validation, more passion, more life – she knew boundaries needed to be respected.
Clearing her throat, Arizona managed a small smile, "Thanks for...uh, sparing my modesty," she said, attempting to diffuse the tension.
Callie, with a smirk playing on her lips, responded, "Trust me, I'm holding back a lot more than just comments."
The implication of her words hung heavily in the room, making the atmosphere even more charged.
Both shared a brief, genuine laugh, the kind that momentarily pushes away the looming tension.
Gathering her things, Arizona, now fully dressed, glanced at Callie once more, "Have a good day, Dr. Torres."
Callie, leaning against the bunk bed, watched Arizona leave, her voice soft, "You too, Dr. Robbins."
The door clicked shut, leaving Callie alone with her thoughts. The image of Arizona, vulnerable and beautiful, was now permanently etched in her memory. She touched her chest, feeling the rapid beat of her heart, wondering where this unexpected journey would take them next.
'Be still, my heart' Callie murmured to herself.
The bright overhead lights of the operating room bathed the area in stark white light, revealing the intricacies of the procedure at hand. Callie, in her navy scrubs and mask, meticulously worked on the knee of a pregnant woman who had been involved in a traumatic accident.
At the foot of the Operating table, Addison stood with her hands folded at her chest , keeping a vigilant eye on the fetal monitor, ready to intervene should the need for an emergency C-section arise. Callie was thoroughly engrossed in the surgery, but Addison's mischievous nature couldn't be suppressed for long.
Amidst the surgical procedure, she leaned in closer to Callie, her voice dripping with playful curiosity. "So, tell me about the beautiful blonde you were seen leaving Joe's with last night."
Callie's gloved hands paused for just a beat, then resumed their meticulous work. With a nonchalant shrug, she replied, "It was just a casual thing. Nothing serious."
Addison raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "You know I'm not letting you off that easily, right? Spill!"
Gritting her teeth slightly in concentration as she navigated the delicate procedure, Callie began, "She was pretty, sure. Bright eyes, a confident stride..."
But as Callie delved deeper into the description, her tone shifted, becoming more dreamy and introspective as the blonde she was describing transformed into a certain Peds surgeon.
"…there was an innocence about her and ….dimples that showed when she laughed, a radiant glow that made her stand out..."
Addison, quick to connect the dots, interrupted with a teasing smirk, "Wait, dimples? You're not talking about the blonde anymore, are you? Are you referring to Robbins? Callie, didn't you left with that short-heighted blonde from the bar?"
Callie's cheeks flushed beneath her surgical mask, her heartbeat quickening not from the surgery, but from the sudden realisation that she'd unintentionally laid bare her growing attraction to Arizona Robbins.
"Yeah,,,yeah I left with her. I'm just tired and a bit distracted Addison, I guess…" Callie tried to placate but she knew the red head won't let go off her so easily.
"You've barely been here, and you're already smitten with Robbins?" Addison teased
"I- I mean, she's impressive. As a surgeon…." Callie stammered, attempting to backpedal.
Addison chuckled softly, "Oh, this is rich! Dr. Callie Torres, the fearless ortho surgeon, has a crush. And on Arizona Robbins, the Peds surgeon, no less."
The final sutures were put in place, concluding the surgery. The patient was stable, and the unborn child's heartbeat was strong and regular – a successful culmination to the combined skills of the two leading doctors.
The operating room's door swished open, admitting nurses who started prepping the patient for the recovery room. As Callie and Addison stepped away from the operating table, discarding their gloves and surgical gowns, Addison shot Callie a playful glance. "This isn't over. We're definitely discussing this over coffee."
Callie sighed, her face a mix of resignation and amusement, "Fine, but only if it's after our shifts. And somewhere discreet."
Addison nodded, her grin broadening. "It's a date. And just remember, my dear Callie, Seattle Grace has its ways of unveiling secrets, especially those of the heart."
Carina and Arizona's bedroom was bathed in a soft, muted glow, courtesy of the evening sun filtering through the sheer drapes. Sitting on her vanity stool, Carina looked at her reflection, her mind a tumultuous sea of emotions. She felt an oppressive weight, the kind borne out of self-imposed isolation and creative stagnation.
Beside her lay the cream-coloured gown she had chosen for the evening - a piece that she hadn't worn in a long time. The dress was understated yet elegant, its simplicity speaking volumes. She reached out, letting her fingers glide over the soft fabric, taking a moment to feel its smoothness against her skin.
With a deep breath, she decided to begin the process of getting dressed. Standing up, she delicately slipped into the gown. The fabric hugged her body in all the right places, enhancing her natural curves. It flowed gracefully down to the floor, making her feel like royalty.
Moving back to the vanity, Carina took deliberate time with her makeup. She wanted to emphasise her eyes, hoping to capture a semblance of the sparkle that seemed to have faded over the past months. After meticulously applying a smoky eye shadow, she lined her eyes, giving them a sultry, intense look. A touch of blush to highlight her cheekbones, and a soft nude lipstick completed her look.
As she applied the final touches, she couldn't help but think about the gala. While she had initially been resistant to the idea of attending, Arizona's words echoed in her mind. Perhaps stepping out and immersing herself in a different environment could be the breath of fresh air she desperately needed. Or Maybe it could lend her some inspiration. If anything it would be at least a surprise for Arizona.
And in Seattle, away from the prying eyes of New York's elite, she could be just another face in the crowd, unburdened by expectations or past accolades.
With one last look in the mirror, Carina decided she was ready. The woman staring back looked radiant and confident, a stark contrast to the turmoil she felt inside. But for tonight, she would set aside her doubts and reservations, hoping to find a reprieve, even if it was fleeting, from the shadows that seemed to cling to her.
The elegant ballroom was aflutter with activity, shimmering with a sophisticated allure that only a hospital gala could muster. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting prismatic rainbows upon polished marble floors. Waitstaff in sharp tuxedos navigated the room, balancing trays of sparkling champagne and hors d'oeuvres.
Against this backdrop stood Callie Torres, looking every bit the radiant surgeon she was. Her gown was a sculpted piece of art, jet black, and hugged her frame in a loving embrace. The fabric shimmered subtly, catching the room's ambient light. It flowed down her body, its tail pooling slightly at her feet, contrasting perfectly with her silver stilettos. The gown's deep V-neck showcased the golden hue of her décolletage, a modest yet tantalising peek. Her black locks were pulled back in a loose bun, a few tendrils framing her face, and her make-up was subtle but emphasised her striking eyes.
By her side, Addison was engaged in an animated conversation with another doctor, her laughter bright and infectious. Callie, however, felt disconnected from the festivities, a sensation akin to watching the event through a veil. With a sigh of ennui, she reached for a glass of champagne and some finger foods.
As she bit into a delectable hors d'oeuvre, a sudden shift in the room's energy caught her attention. The hum of conversations intensified, coupled with subtle gasps and admiring whispers. Following the crowd's line of sight, Callie's breath caught in her throat.
On the far end of the ballroom, Arizona had just made an entrance.
Arizona was a vision in sapphire. The gown she wore seemed to be painted onto her, tracing every curve with finesse. The shade of blue complemented her fair complexion and made her blue eyes pop even more vividly. The dress had an off-shoulder design, exposing her collarbone and the delicate curve of her shoulders. The fabric, with its gentle sheen, draped beautifully down her figure, cinching at the waist and flowing out in a gentle flare that reached the ground. The subtle train of her dress trailed behind her, and her golden hair cascaded down her back in loose waves. A silver necklace with a solitaire diamond pendant nestled against her skin, catching the light with every step.
Addison noticed the sudden change in Callie's demeanour, her gaze fixated on Arizona. She leaned in, her voice a sultry whisper, "Well, well, looks like someone's captivated."
Callie blinked, trying to regain her composure. "She's... beautiful," she admitted, her voice almost a whisper.
"From what you had told me earlier Callie, I'm sure Arizona is gonna be equally enamoured by you once she sees you" Addison added as she watched Callie's unfiltered gaze on Arizona.
"Uh no. I barely know her. It's better if things stay professional", Callie added as she sipped on the flute in her hand, her eyes still fixated on Arizona who was now laughing at something Derek Shepherd has just said.
Addison smirked, taking a sip of her drink. "Oh, come on, Torres. That's an understatement, and you know it. From the way you're looking at her, it seems like you've got more than professional admiration."
Feeling her cheeks warm, Callie nodded slowly. "I think I might be developing a bit of a... crush."
Addison's eyes twinkled with mischief. "Well, if the rumors are true, Dr. Robbins is single and ready to mingle. You two would be the talk of the hospital, in the best way possible. Imagine the power couple!"
Emboldened by Addison's words and the allure of Arizona's presence, Callie felt a surge of confidence. "Do you think she'd be interested?"
Addison leaned closer, her voice conspiratorial. "There's only one way to find out, and this gala seems like the perfect setting. Go on, Torres. Take a chance."
With a deep breath to steady herself and a final bolstering nod from Addison, Callie began her approach.
Maybe she should take a chance.
The gala was in full swing. However, as Dr. Richard Webber observed the scene from the room's periphery, he couldn't help but feel a pang of frustration. The purpose of the gala was not merely social; it was a means to garner generous donations to fund the hospital's numerous endeavours. And to achieve that, it was crucial to engage with the wealthy patrons who graced the event. But much to Richard's dismay, the doctors of Seattle Grace Mercy West were engrossed in casual conversations amongst themselves, missing the evening's larger objective.
Taking a deep breath, he adjusted his impeccably tailored black suit, straightened his tie, and approached the mic with authority. The soft murmurs slowly subsided as all eyes turned towards him.
"Good evening, guests and colleagues. I hope you're enjoying the evening," he began with a charismatic smile. "But I've observed that our evening lacks a certain….. interactive flair. So, to elevate our gala and to encourage everyone to mingle a bit more, I'm introducing a slight twist."
His announcement was met with curious glances. With a dramatic flourish, Richard unveiled a gleaming glass bowl filled with neatly folded papers.
"I've decided we'll engage in a classic dance session. The old-world charm, I believe, will infuse the right amount of interaction our evening requires but there would be a twist in this. Each doctor's name is in this bowl, and the pairings will be random."
Excitement rippled through the room. Whispers and anticipatory glances were exchanged, the thought of a dance lending a playful undertone to the event. Richard reveled in the immediate reaction, his plan working wonders already.
Without further ado, he began drawing names. "First up, Dr. Meredith Grey," he announced, pausing for a brief moment before drawing the next name, "paired with Dr. Derek Shepherd."
A few knowing chuckles erupted from the crowd, aware of their history. Both Meredith and Derek exchanged resigned smiles, accepting the situation with good humor.
Next, Richard announced, "Dr. Addison Montgomery," and after a dramatic pause, he added, "paired with Dr. Jackson Avery."
The two doctors shared a surprised glance, the height difference evident but the mutual respect unmistakable.
And then, "Dr. Callie Torres," Richard proclaimed, drawing the next slip with gusto, "will dance with Dr. Arizona Robbins."
Callie's heart raced. The excitement evident in her sparkling eyes. Across the room, Arizona's reaction was more nuanced. While the prospect of dancing with Callie was undeniably enticing, there was a flutter of nerves, making her stomach do tiny flips. She had been feeling a bit 'bothered' ever since their interaction in the on-call room that morning.
The room hummed with an electrifying energy as doctors after doctors got paired and everyone decided to humour Richard's request and bring some glamour to the otherwise dull evening.
With the orchestra shifting to a timeless waltz tune, couples began to find their places on the dance floor. Meredith and Derek's chemistry was undeniable; their dance was a blend of elegance and intimacy. Addison and Jackson moved with grace, their contrasting personalities making for an intriguing dynamic, the senior doctor leading the younger with poised assurance.
The chandeliers above glittered with a soft luminescence, casting shimmering beams onto the polished dance floor as Callie and Arizona stood opposite each other, a growing tension between them. The world seemed to fade as Callie reached out, her fingers gently finding Arizona's. Callie, taking the initiative, extended her hand to Arizona. But instead of stopping there, her fingers trailed the length of Arizona's forearm, sliding up to rest against the smooth expanse of her bare back, drawing her in.
Arizona's breath caught, and she murmured, "Easy there, Dr. Torres."
Callie, her gaze never leaving Arizona's, responded with a confident smirk, "Just following the rhythm, Dr. Robbins."
Their bodies now mere inches apart, their movements were slow, deliberate. Each step and sway brought them closer, their chemistry undeniable. Callie's breath fanned out against Arizona's cheek, causing Arizona to shiver involuntarily.
Arizona, attempting to lighten the intensity, quipped, "Did you take professional dancing lessons or something?"
Callie's eyes sparkled mischievously, "Wouldn't you like to know? Maybe I just have a good partner."
Arizona's cheeks tinged pink, and she bit her lip, her playful demeanour momentarily faltering. "You're quite forward, aren't you?"
Callie, leaning in so close that their noses nearly touched, whispered, "Only when something... or someone catches my interest."
The two continued to move to the soft, enchanting rhythm. Callie was leading, unyielding, and Arizona, though taken aback by the unexpected intimacy, found herself helplessly drawn in.
She inhaled sharply, the sensation of Callie's hand sending waves of warmth cascading down her spine. Her skin felt like it was on fire, every nerve ending alert and responsive.
The intensity of the moment was unmistakable. Callie was entirely enraptured, the depth of her amber eyes reflecting an all-consuming desire. She guided Arizona through the dance, their movements slow and deliberate.
Arizona, while visibly affected by their closeness, tried to maintain a semblance of control. Her blue eyes, usually so radiant and open, now bore an internal conflict. The emotions swirling within her were a mix of surprise, yearning, and a desperate need to hold onto the restraint that was rapidly slipping away.
The ambient music from the jazz ensemble began to dim as a sultry, rhythmic bachata melody filled the air. The room's atmosphere transformed instantly – a raw, poweredup tension settled amidst the gleaming chandeliers and polished floors. Callie instinctively pulled Arizona further close, bodies now molded together from head to toe, ensuring their bodies moved in harmonious synchrony.
"Just follow my lead," Callie murmured softly as she guided Arizona into a series of graceful turns, their hands never breaking contact.
Arizona responded with a light laugh, "You make it sound so easy." But her trust in Callie was evident, allowing herself to be led, to move seamlessly with her.
With every sway and dip, Callie infused the dance with raw sensuality, her gaze never leaving Arizona's. Their hips moved in tandem, each gyration pulling them closer, blurring the boundaries between leader and follower.
"Stay with me," Callie whispered huskily, as she led Arizona into a tight turn, their bodies brushing together. The feel of Arizona against her was intoxicating, and Callie could sense the mounting heat between them.
Arizona, her breath coming out in shallow gasps, replied, "I'm trying…" The sensation of being so intimately led by Callie was both overwhelming and enthralling.
Their dance took on an even deeper intensity as Callie executed a series of intricate steps, making Arizona twist and turn, always ensuring she was drawn back into the magnetic pull of their shared rhythm. At one point, Callie pulled Arizona into a sensual dip, her thigh sliding between Arizona's legs, their faces inches apart, breaths mingling.
"You okay?" Callie murmured, her voice thick with desire as she slowly brought Arizona back up.
Arizona, her eyes glazed with a heady cocktail of arousal and conflict, nodded slowly. "Mhmm," she whispered back, her voice trembling.
The bachata track, with its sensual undertones, seemed to echo their growing connection. Their dance was no longer just about the steps or the rhythm – it was an intimate conversation, a slow-burning exploration of desire and resistance.
As the last notes of the music faded, Callie and Arizona remained on the floor, their bodies still pressed close, the room around them momentarily forgotten. The applause that erupted brought them back to reality, but the charged atmosphere between them remained, a testament to the powerful chemistry they had just unleashed.
Casual music now floated through the air, a stark contrast to the sensuous tune they had danced to. Couples began to break apart, the doctors now engaging the elites in conversation, hoping to charm them into making generous donations.
Arizona felt a mix of emotions—elation from the dance, but also a growing discomfort. She had allowed herself to be completely vulnerable, and while it was exhilarating, it was also frightening. She could feel Callie's gaze on her from across the room, but she deliberately avoided meeting it, feeling like a moth too close to a flame.
As she was discussing funding needs for the paediatrics department with an interested gentleman, Teddy sidled up to her, her eyes dancing with mischief. "That was quite the show, Robbins," she commented with a smirk. "You and Torres...hot stuff."
Arizona's eyes flashed with irritation. "It was just a dance, Teddy." She took a deep breath, reminding herself to keep her composure. "And for the record, I told you I'm not interested in dating."
Arizona's attention then returned back to the gentleman who had just now promised her a lucrative cheque for her department.
Her work here was now done.
Suddenly feeling claustrophobic and overwhelmed, Arizona made a hasty exit from the ballroom. She needed air, space, and a moment to gather her scattered thoughts.
On the other side of the room, Callie was effortlessly working her charm, drawing potential donors into animated conversations, all the while making sure that her gaze follows Arizona wherever she was in the room.
Addison approached her with a playful grin. "Callie Torres! That was nothing short of sex on the dance floor."
Before Callie could respond, both of them spotted Arizona making a beeline for the exit. "You know," Addison mused, nudging Callie lightly, "sometimes, after a dance like that, people need a moment to catch their breath. Maybe you should go see if she's alright."
A hint of concern flashed in Callie's eyes, replacing the previous cockiness. With a nod, she decided to follow Arizona, hoping to find some answers, and maybe, just maybe, a deeper conversation.
The muffled noises from the gala faded into the background as Arizona rushed through the hallway, her footsteps echoing in the empty corridor. She discarded her heels, clutching them in one hand, while pulling up the hem of her gown with the other. Her heart raced, and she could feel a strange mix of dread and anticipation coiling within her.
Behind her, Callie's voice pierced the silence, a desperate call, "Arizona!" But the blonde didn't falter, didn't turn back. Instead, she pushed through the doors after doors, hallways after hallways, on the path that led her to the hospital rooftop.
The soft brightness of the moon bathed the rooftop in an ethereal glow, casting elongated shadows that seemed to merge and twist. Arizona went straight to the railings, looking out at the expansive view of the city below, trying to find a semblance of calm. Her hand clenched and unclenched are the railings as she recounted the happenings of the evening.
The sprawling city lay beneath her, yet she felt miles away from everything and everyone. The light breeze tugged at her hair, cooling her heated face, but the warmth inside her continued to rise.
Images of Callie swirled in her mind – the intense look in Callie's eyes, the strong grasp of her hands, the way Callie's firm hands had danced over her bare back. It had been so long since Arizona felt desired like that, so long since she felt the thrumming undercurrents of passion that now raced through her veins.
She thought about the last time she and Carina were intimate, the memories feeling more like a distant past. The raw desire, the mutual want, it all seemed so faded. And here was Callie, a radiant embodiment of that long-lost passion, pulling at Arizona's dormant desires.
But as the realisation hit her, she felt a stab of guilt. She was married. She couldn't let herself be swayed by fleeting feelings, no matter how strong. "No," she whispered to herself, "this is wrong." She decided then and there that she needed to clear the air with Callie, set boundaries, and ensure that lines weren't crossed.
Engrossed in her whirlwind of thoughts, she barely registered the soft footsteps approaching. It wasn't until Callie's voice broke the stillness that Arizona was pulled back to the present moment, her resolutions now on the precipice of being tested.
In the moonlight, Arizona looked almost ethereal, her skin illuminated with a soft glow, her golden hair shimmering. Callie's breath caught, the sight momentarily taking away any words she might have conjured.
Breaking the silence, Callie softly questioned, "Why are you hiding, Arizona?"
Arizona stiffened, her voice edged with defiance, "I'm not hiding."
Callie took a cautious step closer, her voice softening. "Did you... did you feel anything back there?"
Arizona's gaze stayed fixed on the distant horizon. "No," she replied, a bit too quickly, her voice betraying a hint of uncertainty.
Callie's eyes narrowed, sensing the lie. "Arizona," she began, her voice filled with conviction, "I felt it. That connection. That electricity. Tell me you felt it too."
Arizona finally turned to face Callie, her eyes moist, her face a portrait of conflict. "I…I didn't feel anything….Whatever this is, whatever you think you're feeling, it's just...confusion…I think….."
Callie, undeterred, took another step closer, her intention clear. She was going to make Arizona feel, make her acknowledge the undeniable pull between them. With a swift move, she reached out, placing her hand behind Arizona's neck and pulling her into a kiss.
Time seemed to stand still. The world narrowed down to just the two of them, their lips pressed together in a softest of lip lock . It was just lips on lips, no tongue, no movement, just an overwhelming intensity. Even though Callie had made the first move, she wanted Arizona to make the second one.
But as quickly as it began, Arizona broke away, pushing Callie back. They both stood there, breathless, the weight of their actions hanging heavily between them. Arizona's breathing was ragged. She couldn't believe that such a simple gesture could be so consuming, so maddening.
Callie on the other hand wanted to close the gap between them and ravage Arizona them and there — make her see what she was denying.
A deafening silence hung between them, broken only by the distant sounds of the city below. Arizona's eyes darted, searching for the right words to say, to explain, to clarify.
"I didn't... we shouldn't have..." she stammered, but the words eluded her, caught in the vortex of emotion threatening to consume her.
"I don't….no.." The weight of guilt pressed heavily on her heart. Whether intentional or not, she will not be betraying Carina, and the realisation stung sharply.
Taking a shaky breath, tears brimming in her eyes, Arizona finally whispered with a broken voice, "What just happened, Callie, it was wrong."
Callie, still reeling from the force of the kiss, tried to grasp the situation. Her brow furrowed in confusion. Because she wasn't expecting…..that.
Every signal, every glance, every touch had pointed towards mutual attraction. Or had she imagined it all?
Arizona continued, her voice quivering with emotion. "I'm... I'm involved with someone. This... this can't happen." The truth of her marriage was something she wasn't ready to disclose, so she framed it in a way that would hopefully make Callie understand her turmoil.
Seeing Callie's stunned expression, Arizona's voice took on a hint of accusation. "I told you 'no', Callie. You should have respected that."
Callie stepped back, her face a palette of regret, confusion, and hurt. She had always prided herself on reading people well, on understanding emotions. But now, she felt lost, blindsided by her own misinterpretations.
"I thought... I was sure..." Callie murmured, more to herself than Arizona. Her confidence had been shaken, replaced with self-doubt. Maybe she had gotten it all wrong.
Arizona took a moment, trying to collect herself. "This... whatever this is... can't happen again," she said firmly. She couldn't risk more complications in her already tumultuous life. The consequences were too grave.
The two stood, a few feet apart, yet worlds away from each other, as the weight of the evening's events loomed large between them.