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Most college students use their Friday nights for drinking and partying, but grad students? They’re a whole different breed. It’s been a year and some months since Agatha spotted Rio’s Craigslist ad after her old roommate moved in with her girlfriend. They’ve grown fond of each other’s company, spending evenings studying in the warm glow of their apartment.
Tonight follows their usual routine. Rio sits on the couch, tapping away on her laptop, while Agatha lounges beside her, legs draped over Rio’s lap, annotating a book full of legal jargon. Pens and highlighters are scattered across the coffee table, and Rio has claimed Agatha’s lap as a makeshift desk for an assortment of printed articles and photos of plants. Candles flicker in the dim light, and the soft hum of Tchaikovsky fills the space. Agatha insists it creates the perfect studying ambiance, and Rio would never deny her anything.
The peaceful atmosphere is broken by the sudden buzz of Rio’s phone. Alice’s name flashes on the screen. Agatha glances up, her interest piqued as Rio answers the call.
“Sup bro— tonight???? — I mean it’s not due this weekend so— fine, fine… but only because I love you— alright, I’ll see you in two hours.” Rio groans as she throws her phone down on the coffee table.
“Something come up?” Agatha asks nonchalantly. Except she doesn’t feel nonchalant at all. She loves her evenings with Rio and would prefer to keep her all to herself.
“Uh.. Yeah, you remember Alice? Well, her band isn’t doing too hot money-wise, so she called me up to save the day,” Rio says as she smiles apologetically. “Under normal circumstances, our study nights would come first, but I kinda owe Alice a favor since she drove me to and from the airport last time I went outta town.”
Agatha nods, but her curiosity lingers. “I mean, I’ve heard you practice in your room, and don’t get me wrong, you’re incredible, but how exactly are you saving the day?”
Rio’s face goes red as she takes a deep breath. “Well… before I started the Master’s program, I was in the band with them. I was on guitar and stuff and um. And I kinda used to… uh…” She pauses, searching for the right words before finally blurting out, “I basically seduced the audience for money.”
Agatha’s curious expression shifted to an impressed smirk. She slammed her laptop shut, leaping to her feet. “Oh, there is absolutely no way I’m missing this. I’m coming with you!”
Rio glanced up at her and shook her head, “Sweetheart, it’s a lesbian bar. It’s not exactly swimming with cute boys for you.”
The other girl shot her a challenging look and leaned in. “Hm. I would’ve thought that after almost two years of living together you would’ve pieced together that I’m not as straight as you think.”
Rio’s smug grin faltered, then turned into a look of genuine shock. “Oh- well… I don’t know. I’ve never seen you bring anyone around, so I kinda assumed… um…” She hesitated, words stuttering out in her nervous rush. “Well, I shouldn’t be making assumptions. That’s my bad.”
Agatha’s soft smile only made her more flustered. Rio fumbled, trying to steady her breath. “Look, um, if anyone makes a move on you… can you, uh, tell them I called first dibs on a date with you?” She tried to laugh and play it off as a joke, but the tension in her voice betrayed her. Caught up in her own nerves, she doesn’t even notice Agatha’s amused expression.
After a few more minutes of teasing back and forth, they both realize it’s time to get ready. Agatha reluctantly gathers her annotation tools, and Rio shoves her papers into a folder. Together, they blow out the candles before heading off to change in their bedrooms.
Moments later, Agatha waits in the living room, arms crossed, mindlessly gazing out the window. She’s dressed in simple dark jeans and a black sleeveless blouse that dips just low enough to hint at the curves of her chest. It’s subtle, but she hopes it’ll draw Rio’s eye.
Rio emerges from her room and Agatha’s head whips around. She’s wearing baggy jeans and a cropped white tank top, the black lace of her bralette peeking through. Agatha’s breath catches in her throat, her jaw falling open as she watches Rio grunt slightly while slinging her guitar case strap over her shoulder. The sight leaves Agatha staring a beat too long. Rio smiles softly upon seeing her roommate and she walks toward the door, holding it open for the other girl.
“You look incredible,” Rio says. Her eyes meet Agatha’s as they fight with everything they’ve got to not trail further down than they should. This blouse was really doing her well. Rio snaps herself out of the trance and clears her voice, “you coming?”
I definitely will tonight, whether it’s by my hands or yours. She wants to say, but keeps that thought to herself. Instead, she simply nods.
They walk together for two blocks before reaching the bar. A large rainbow flag hangs in the window, illuminated by the soft glow of a neon sign reading The Witches Road . It’s much nicer than Agatha expected. She had braced herself for a dimly lit dive bar with two rickety chairs and cheap string lights, like every other bar in this area.
Instead, she’s met with a warm lighting that casts a glow over the spacious setting area. The booths are well-maintained, without a single crack or peel, and their mahogany finish complements the velvety red walls. Framed photos and eclectic knicknacks are scattered across the space, each clearly holding a story to be unlocked. At the far end of the room, a small, elevated stage sits in front of an open space, likely for dancing.
The air hums with conversation, growing livelier as more people take notice of the band’s former guitarist. Rio ignores the eyes on her and takes Agatha’s hand, leading her to the only elevated booth, tucked in the farthest corner from the stage.
“This,” Rio announces with a grin, “is what we call the Princess Booth .” She gestures grandly. “It’s reserved for the performers and whoever they deem worthy of watching from this prime vantage point. Also, it makes it easier for the servers when someone inevitably tries to buy the band a round of drinks.”
“Well, thank you for deeming me worthy,” Agatha says, slipping into a faux British accent. They both laugh. Rio’s about to excuse herself when a voice cuts through the chatter.
“My, oh my. Rio Vidal, as I live and breathe!”
Rio’s head snaps toward the sound, and in the next instant, she’s launching herself into an older woman’s arms.
“LILIA!!!” she exclaims, practically vibrating with excitement.
“Oh, honey, I’m too old for all that! You’re gonna knock me off my feet!” Lilia laughs, patting Rio’s back as best she can while being squeezed half to death.
“Sorry! Sorry!” Rio finally lets go but wastes no time grabbing Lilia’s hand and dragging her towards Agatha. “Come on, I have someone I want you to meet!”
Agatha watches with an amused smile before hopping down from the booth to greet the woman Rio is hauling over.
“Okay, okay, I really need to confirm the setlist with the band, but quick introductions!” Rio says in a rush. “Lilia, this is my lovely roommate, Agatha. Agatha, this is Lilia, owner of the bar, best person ever.”
Before either of them can say much, Rio gives them a thumbs up and bolts toward the back, guitar slung over her shoulder. Agatha and Lilia share a look of amusement at Rio’s behavior. They settle themselves into the booth as the crowd begins to grow.
“I’ve never seen her this full of energy,” Agatha muses, watching the spot where Rio disappeared. “She’s usually more reserved, drowning herself in academics. Was she always like this when she used to come around?”
Lilia chuckles, leaning back with an easy smile. “Oh, honey, she’s always had her head buried in school, but I do my best to cultivate an environment where young sapphics can breathe. A place where they can leave their worries at the door and just be .” She gestures around the teeming bar. “I like to think this place gives people what I never had back in my day.”
“Well,” Agatha says with admiration, “it looks you’re doing an incredible job.”
They continue chatting for a bit, the conversation flows effortlessly until Lilia pauses with a mischievous glint in her eye.
“You know,” she says, a knowing smirk tugging at her lips, “it seems like she’s taken quite a liking to you.”
Agatha arches a brow. “What do you mean?”
Lilia’s smirk deepens. “Rio’s never been one to let just anyone into her space. If she doesn’t care for someone, they know it.”
Agatha smiles at that, feeling a flicker of something warm in her chest. “Well, I’d hope she likes me after nearly two years of living together.”
Lilia tilts her head, eyes twinkling. “And do you like her?”
Agatha’s heart stumbles over itself.
“I mean… yeah, she’s sweet… um.” She fumbles, suddenly aware of the heat creeping up her neck. “She’s a great friend.”
Lilia hums knowingly, shaking her head with fond amusement. “Oh, to be young, queer, and clueless.”
Before Agatha can form a response, the room erupts in cheers as the band steps onto the small stage.
Rio’s friend, Alice, steps up to the keyboard and mic set in the center of the stage. Agatha recognizes her from a few past encounters, but has never seen her in this setting.
“How’s everyone feeling tonight!” she calls out and the crowd hollers. “Well, for those who haven’t met us before, We’re The Coven ! I’m Alice, and my lovely girlfriend, Jen, is on bass.” Jen waves with a grin, prompting some whistles and cheers.
A redhead at the drumset chimes in next. “I’m Natasha, but you can call me Nat.” She winks at the crowd with a natural charm. The other redhead, with longer hair and a bright energy jumps in next. “And I’m Nat’s girlfriend, Wanda!” She says with a sweet smile, “I’m on rhythm guitar and usually I handle lead and backup vocals, but… ” she pauses dramatically, “tonight, we have our old friend joining us!” The bar hums with excitement and all eyes shift toward Rio.
“Hey guys, I’m-” she barely gets out before a chorus of screams cuts her off.
Rio shakes her head with a smile before trying again, “I’m Rio! Some of you might remember me from past gigs…” she drags the words out for dramatic effect before dipping into a sultry voice, “it’s good to be back. I hope you all missed me.” The crowd responds immediately.
Put a baby in me, Rio!
What else can those fingers do?!
Take off your shirt!
Rio is unfazed and just laughs before tossing a wink at the crowd.
Meanwhile, Agatha sits there, jaw dropped in amusement as she glances at Lilia, “You know, she told me the crowd loved her, but I wasn’t expecting all this before they even started playing.”
Lilia smirks. “Oh, honey. You’re in for a treat,” she says before making her way back behind the bar, leaving Agatha to watch the show.
After introductions, the band launches into their first song. It’s a bit of a gritty and grungy track called The Witches Road. Alice mentioned that they wrote it in honor of their favorite bar in town, so it’s only fitting to open with it.
Agatha doesn’t say it out loud, but she understands the hype very well now. Alice and Wanda belt the lyrics to the anthemic song while Rio’s sweet voice weaves harmonies between them. And those fingers… The way they work the guitar is absolutely hypnotic.
They power through two more original songs before transitioning into covers, giving the crowd a chance to sing along. The bar shakes with excitement as Rio plays the opening riff to Girls/Girls/Boys by Panic! At the Disco.
Rio steps in more on vocals for this one, since her lower register fits the song perfectly. The girls toward the front of the crowd are eating it up as Rio locks eyes with them, dipping into a sultry melodic tone.
I don’t wanna hear you’ve got a boyfriend
Sometimes, you’re better off alone
But if you change your mind, you know where I am
Yeah, if you change your mind, you know where to find me
‘Cause I don’t ever wanna be your boyfriend
Agatha chuckles at the way those girls swoon over her. It’s all fun and games until her gaze finds her. Rio’s eyes lock onto Agatha as if she’s the only girl in this damn bar. Her throat dries up as Rio leans into the mic.
And never did I think that I
Would be caught in the way you got me
Push another girl aside and just give in
Agatha begins to feel a bit of heat tugging at her collar. Rio’s been moving all over the stage for the past four songs with her fingers dancing over the guitar. The small workout caused a sheen of sweat to glisten along her collarbone, and her white tank top hugs her sweaty torso. Agatha bites her lip as she watches a single bead of sweat trail down her jaw and onto her chest.
She’s broken out of her trance when a blur of white hair and frantic energy crashes into the other side of the booth she’s in.
“Oh thank god, I didn’t miss the finale!” the guy out of breath. His head snaps to the woman across from him, “So sorry! I’m Wanda’s brother, Pietro!” He smiles and sticks out his hand.
“I’m Rio’s roommate, Agatha,” she says as she shakes his hand, “What’s the big finale?”
The man’s face lights up. “Oh my god, Agatha Harkness, you’re real! I thought she was making you up.” He laughs. “I’ve heard tons about you, all good things though. Anyway, if you don’t know what the big finale is… then I think it’s better for you to find out.”
Agatha raises a brow, but before she can respond, the room erupts. Her and Pietro’s attention goes back to the stage, where Rio’s shredding through a solo, fingers flying over the fretboard.
The crowd is losing their minds and as if it couldn’t get crazier… Agatha’s jaw slacks as she watches a girl from the front row fling a pair of black lace panties onto the stage.
Rio catches it. With her teeth. And winks …
The girl who threw them practically collapses. Agatha can’t even blame her though. If she weren’t already sitting down, she might’ve done the same.
Next to her, Pietro lets out whistles and cheers. “That’s my sister!”
Agatha blinks. “...Sister??”
“Figuratively,” Pietro grins. “She dated my sister awhile back. They broke up, obviously, but by the time they did, me and Rio were already a bonded pair. Sometimes she acts more like my twin than Wanda.”
Agatha nods, doing her best to keep a neutral expression, but she can’t stop her jaw from clenching slightly. She dated Wanda… She knew Rio had exes, but she didn’t know anything about them, and to find out that one was this cheerful redhead made her stomach turn. She’s nothing like me… Am I even Rio’s type?
As if he could read her mind, Pietro leans in with a smirk. “She’s all yours, by the way.”
Agatha’s stomach flips. “Pardon?”
“They know they’re way better as friends, plus my sister’s got a new girl.” He chuckles, “And trust me, given the way Rio talks about you? You’ve got nothing to worry about.”
Agatha presses her lips together, unsure how to respond to that. It’s not like she has a thing with Rio. But still, her heart flutters at the thought that Rio talks about her. Before she can dwell on it, the band wraps up a cover of Everlong by the Foo Fighters. Lilia steps onto the stage briefly, handing each band member a bottle of water. Alice takes the mic, flashing a grin at the crowd.
“Well, everyone…” she starts, “Tonight, we have a special treat thanks to our favorite guitarist.” She gestures to Rio, who’s busy swapping her mic stand for a headset mic from Jen. Lilia returns with a small spinning wheel covered in song titles.
Wanda taps her mic. “If you’ve been here for one of these before, you know what’s coming.” She smirks knowingly at the audience. “And if you haven’t… well, you’ll figure it out.”
The crowd falls quiet in anticipation, and Pietro shoots Agatha a knowing look. She barely has time to wonder what’s coming before Rio spins the wheel. The clicking comes to a stop, and Alice glances at the result before announcing it.
“ Kiss It Better by Rihanna!” The entire bar erupts in screams. “Oh god…” Rio groans, hiding her face behind one hand, but there’s still a sly smile tugging at her lips while she shakes her head.
Alice’s keyboard and Rio’s pedalboard setup swapped places, putting Rio center stage. Natasha begins drumming to set the beat, then Rio’s fingers glide into the opening riff. Her voice slips into something low and sultry as Wanda and Alice back her. The energy in the bar shifts, a sensual air taking over as the crowd listens to Rio get into the pre-chorus.
Just take it on back, girl, take it on back, girl
Take it back all night
Just take it on back, take it on back
Agatha swallows hard as the song builds up. Rio’s voice is a slow burn that melts all senses in her brain away.
Mmm, do whatcha gotta do
Keep me up all night
Hurtin’ vibe, man it hurts inside
When I look you in yo’ eye
Then Rio smirks, hitting the loop pedal to keep the riff going without her hands. She prowls to the front of the stage, dropping on all fours. She crawls toward a girl in the front row, lifting a finger under her chin as she locks eyes with her for the chorus.
What are you willing to do?
Oh, tell me what you’re willing to do.
Pietro bursts out laughing at Agatha’s expression. “Oh this is nothing… just wait.”
Agatha barely processes a word he’s saying as Rio moves to the next girl. She plucks a beer from her hand, tilting her chin up, and tipping the drink into her mouth. The girl almost collapses and the nearby women lose their minds. Cash is raining onto the stage like it’s a damn strip club. Rio just winks and saunters back to her guitar, seamlessly slipping into the next verse.
That lucky bitch… Agatha thought to herself. She spends the rest of the song attempting to catch her breath. Who would’ve thought that her adorable, shy roommate could have such a sultry side hidden away?
By the final chorus, Rio’s on her knees, head thrown back, fingers working magic on the strings. The music pulses and Agatha’s damn near drooling at this point. She watches as Rio leans forward to a girl who’s holding out a wad of cash. Rio grabs her hand and leads it down to tuck the cash in the waistband of her jeans, dragging them down just enough to reveal black Hanes boxers underneath.
Agatha exhales, her head spinning from the vulgar thoughts clouding her brain. The song ends in a wave of screaming. Bills are scattered throughout the air, on the stage, and in Rio’s jeans..
Alice takes a step forward, grinning as she speaks into the mic. “Alright, alright, everyone! Thank you for being a killer crowd tonight, and if you wanna buy us a round of drinks, just tell the servers to send ‘em over to the Princess Booth !”
The bar explodes into cheers again as the band waves and disappears backstage.
Agatha and Pietro make small talk until the band begins piling into the booth with them.
Alice flashes Agatha a warm smile. “Agatha! I’m glad you could make it tonight, I-”
“OH MY GOD!” Jen cuts in, eyes wide with excitement. “This is Agatha?! Rio’s talked about you so much. It's great to finally meet you!” She smiles and extends a hand.
Agatha’s caught off guard, but smiles as she shakes the hand. “You’re maybe the third person to tell me something like that tonight.”
“Yea she’s totally in lo- OW!” Jen’s yelps as Nat elbows her.
“Don’t mind Jen,” Nat says dryly, shaking her head. “She talks way more than she should.” She offers Agatha a firm handshake. “I’m Nat, but I’m sure you heard us introduce ourselves on stage.”
“Honey, you’re so serious! You’re gonna make her think she’s signing up for BMT!” the other redhead teases. “I’m Wanda! And I see you’ve met my twin brother, Pietro!” she says cheerfully.
“It’s great to meet you all!” Agatha says as she shifts in her seat, glancing around. While she enjoys this group’s vibe, there’s only one person she’s here for. “Where’s Rio?”
Alice smirks and nods toward the bar. Agatha follows her gaze, only to find Rio swarmed by a group of at least eight women. The confident stage persona is gone, replaced by her usual more reserved self. She’s smiling and nodding along, but Agatha can read her expression. It’s not the same smile she offers in private.
A server swings by with a round of drinks. Pietro rubs his hands together with a knowing grin. “And so it begins…”
Agatha stirs her drink absentmindedly. “So… Rio’s pretty popular, huh?
“Oh, you have no idea,” Jen laughs, “She’s great at getting the crowd’s attention.”
“We consider her our secret weapon,” Alice adds with a smirk, “Sometimes if we’re in pinch, we’ll call Rio up to throw her on stage, and suddenly we’re drowning in cash and free booze.”
“The only problem…” Wanda chimes in, “is that the poor girl gets super nervous about all the attention. And After a set, she gets hounded.” She pauses to take a swig of her drink, “We usually let her squirm for a bit before stepping in.”
The group nods in agreement, casually sipping their drinks as more and more start piling up on the table, arriving faster than they can finish them. Agatha’s just taking another sip when Pietro lets out a sharp whistle, followed by a nod towards Rio.
“Code red.”
Everyone’s heads snap toward the bar before a collective groan bumbles through the group
Agatha turns and sees Rio, shoulders tense and awkward smile in place, as some girl is basically hanging off of her.
“Who’s that?” she asks.
“Sloane- fucking -Caldwell…” Nat mutters, rolling her eyes. “Rich girl. Thinks she can get anything she wants. Including Rio.”
“She’s probably the most persistent girl we’ve ever met,” Jen adds as she inspects them. “Looks like she’s only tipsy right now, which is good… because if she’s wasted we have to physically rip her off of Rio.”
“Rio slept with her one time,” Pietro says with a protective edge in his voice, “and now she won’t leave her alone.”
“Yup…” Wanda sighs, “One of the crazy ones…”
Alice exhales and stands up from her seat. “Alright. Intervention time?”
Wanda and Pietro nod, moving to get up.
“WAIT!” Jen exclaims as she grabs Alice’s arm. Everyone turns to her with puzzled looks.
Jen grins mischievously as she turns toward Agatha. “You should pretend to be her girlfriend. That’ll clear the crowd real fast.”
Agatha’s pulse jumps. The thought of being the one to pull Rio away from them , from Sloane , sends a thrill through her. “You think she’d be okay with that?” she asks, trying to sound casual.
Pietro nods enthusiastically. “You, of all people, coming to rescue her? She’ll love that.”
The rest of the group cheers, egging her on.
Agatha blushes, but displays a confident smile as she slides out the booth. “Alright… Mission accepted.”
She weaves through the crowd, eyes locked on Rio. She’s getting her out of this now .
She slows as she reaches the group, watching Sloane drape herself over Rio, touching her like she’s something to own… Agatha clenches her jaw at the sight.
“So…” Sloane slurs, tilting her head with a hungry glint in her eye. “Are you coming home with me tonight, or are you still pining after that straight roommate of yours?” the girl pouts as she trails her finger down the side of Rio’s neck.
Rio laughs sheepishly, gently prying Sloane’s hand off of her. “Uh… no, not going home with you… And yea, something like that…”
Agatha’s heart jumps at the admission and she smiles softly. Perfect timing .
She steps forward and lightly taps on Rio’s shoulder. “Mind if I cut in?”
The guitarist’s head snaps around and the tension leaves her body the second she sees her. “Agatha,” she breathes out softly. The nervous smile on her face softens into something real .
Sloane finally lets go, placing a hand on her hip as she eyes Agatha up and down. “Who the hell are you ?” she sneers.
The surrounding women are watching wide-eyed. All the regulars know the unspoken rule… if Sloane claims Rio for the night, no one is getting past her.
Agatha doesn’t back down from the challenge and meets her glare. “I’m her girlfriend .” She delivers the words sharply with a scoff, and a hush falls over the group. She turns to Rio with an easy smile, like this is the most natural thing in the world.
“Come on, honey. Our friends are waiting.”
Before Rio can even process what just went down, Agatha grabs her hand and pulls her away, leaving Sloane standing there stunned and seething .
Still holding Rio’s hand, Agatha slides into the booth, tugging her along. The whole table erupts in cheers, clapping, and hollering at her success.
Grinning, Agatha decides to take full advantage of the moment, using the hand she’s holding to guide Rio’s arm around her shoulders. Rio’s face goes red as a fire hydrant as the blue-eyed girl leans into her.
“What?” Agatha teases, tilting her head with a smirk. “We’re supposed to be dating, right? Gotta sell it somehow.”
The group falls back into easy conversation, but Agatha can’t help noticing how restless Rio looks. Her leg bounces under the table, and the hand that isn’t draped around her shoulder is tapping a jittery rhythm against the table. She only stills when Agatha reaches over, resting a hand on her knee. Rio’s breath catches slightly, but the grounding touch eases her, bringing her back to the moment.
Agatha leans in, voice low and teasing. “You’re terrible at fake dating, you know that?”
Rio lets out a nervous laugh, shifting in her seat. “I am not.”
Agatha grins. “Oh, you totally are.” She tilts her head like she’s studying her. “Look at you… stiff as a board, cheeks burning up. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were nervous.”
“Is it that obvious?” Rio looks down at her fingers. Agatha follows her eyes, then takes Rio’s hand in her own, bringing it to her lips and pressing a light kiss to her knuckles before a gentle smile tugs at her the corners of her mouth.
“You know…” Agatha begins softly, “for someone who just commanded an entire bar with that performance, you’re looking awfully flustered.”
She presses her lips together, avoiding those sharp blue eyes. “That’s different…”
Agatha tilts her head and hums curiously, interested in an explanation, but not wanting to push.
Rio shifts again, her thumb tracing over Agatha’s. “On stage, it’s easy to do all that stuff. I mean, yea there’s a crowd, but there’s also like… distance?.. Between me and them…” Agatha nods as Rio finds her words. “The lights and the music… It's like stepping into a different version of myself…” she continues, “Up there? I’m untouchable. But off stage? It just…” she trails off and her leg starts bouncing again.
Agatha’s hand moves back to her knee, a steadying presence. “Hey… look at me.” she murmurs, voice softer now. When Rio meets her eyes, Agatha smiles. “You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t wanna.”
Rio shakes her head, a small smile forming. “No, I do… I want to tell you.” She inhales before starting again, “I guess it’s different off stage because everything feels more real. People expect actual reactions and actual conversations… When I’m performing, it’s like I’m playing a role… But out here, I don’t have a script, I’m just me … just regular Rio. And for some reason, that freaks me out.” She sighs, fidgeting with Agatha’s hand as she glances back at her. “Does that sound stupid?”
Agatha’s expression softens, warmth flickering in her heart and rising to her face as she takes in Rio’s honesty. Without thinking, she moves forward to press a gentle kiss to Rio’s cheek, lingering just for a second. “That’s not stupid at all, honey.”
She pauses, still an inch away from her face. “And for the record? I happen to like regular Rio.”
Their eyes locked, something unspoken sat in the air. Agatha’s brows furrow slightly, a question still lingers at the edge of her mind. “Do you feel that way when you talk to me?”
Rio mutters a small oh god under her breath before inhaling sharply, like she’s bracing herself. “Well… yea. But not in a way you might think… not in a bad way…” she hesitates, then admits, “You’re probably the easiest person to talk to, but simultaneously the hardest ‘cause sometimes I just… get nervous for other reasons.”
Agatha has a feeling she knows exactly what that means, but doesn’t push. Instead, she lets out a dramatic gasp and slips into a Southern drawl, “And what might those reasons be?”
Rio laughs, tension easing from her shoulders. “Wouldn’t you like to know,” she teases, smiling as she loses herself in the pair of blue eyes in front of her.
For a moment, the world shrinks down to just the two of them. It’s as if the only thing they’ve ever known was the warmth of each other’s touch and the softness in their eyes.
Everything else fades away…
…until their friends drunkenly spill out of the booth.
“Come on, guys! We wanna dance!” Wanda’s voice cuts through the trance they’re both in as she tugs Nat along with her.
Rio blinks, reality settling in as the rest of their group stumbles onto the dance floor. She hesitates before pushing herself to stand. The air between her and Agatha is charged with something she can’t quite name.
She turns to her and takes a deep breath. “If my mindless rant didn’t scare you away from being my fake girlfriend, I, um, hope you’ll accept this invitation to dance with me?..” she says with a hint of uncertainty as she holds out a shaky hand.
Agatha’s gaze flickers between the outstretched hand and Rio’s face, a wide grin splays across her face. Without hesitation, she takes the hand, lacing their fingers together. “Now what kind of girlfriend would I be if I didn’t dance with you?”
Agatha forgets to add the word fake, but Rio doesn’t mind it at all. Her chest feels lighter as they make their way toward their friends.
They spend the night lost in the music, hands intertwined as Rio swings Agatha around, twirling her to the rhythm of whatever upbeat songs are blasting through the speakers. Agatha throws herself in a dramatic dip that nearly makes Rio stumble onto her. Their laughter mixes with the music and they move together like they’ve done this a thousand times.
As the night wears on, the crowd thins out. It’s mostly just them, their friends, and a handful of lingering regulars. About an hour before closing, the tempo shifts. The upbeat songs are replaced by softer melodies, a subtle signal for everyone to start winding down (a tradition of Lilia’s). Some take the hint, finishing off their drinks and gathering their things, while others are wrapped up in the moment, lingering on the dance floor.
The opening notes of Picture You by Chappell Roan drifts through the bar, and the energy between them shifts. Rio hesitates, her fingers still loosely laced with Agatha’s. A silent question falls between them.
Agatha takes a step toward her, a slight tilt in her head. “Come on, rockstar. We’ve already made it this far.”
Rio huffs out a small laugh at the nickname but doesn’t pull away. Instead, she lets her hand settle lightly on Agatha’s waist, pulling her in at a respectful distance. But Agatha, ever the bold one, trails her hands up Rio’s arms, tossing them onto her shoulders and drawing them closer, until there’s hardly any space between them.
Oh, I need you around
I’m getting close now
Do you picture me like I picture you?
Am I in the frame from your point of view?
They sway together, moving slower as the world around them fades. Somehow, they’ve drawn even closer. The hands that Rio had gently rested on Agatha’s waist were now wrapped around her, holding on like she never wants to let go. Agatha’s arms are draped over Rio’s shoulders, her face nestled into the crook of her neck, breathing her in.
“Rio?” Agatha mutters against her skin.
“Hm?” Rio hums, her cheek resting against Agatha’s hair.
“I had a really good time tonight,” Agatha confesses. “As much as I love our study nights, I really enjoyed seeing a side of you that wasn’t so… studious.” A small pause. Then, with a teasing undertone. “You also make a pretty great fake girlfriend.”
Rio pulls back slightly, just enough to meet her eyes, but still holding her close. “Yeah?” A smile tugs at her lips. “You’re an even better fake girlfriend. Thank you for saving me earlier.”
Something unspoken crackles in the air between them as their eyes fixate on each other. It’s clear they both have more to say, but neither seems ready to take that step.
Then, Rio lets out a small, nervous laugh. “Wouldn’t it be crazy if we were actual girlfriends?” She attempts to play it off as a joke, but she can’t hide the quiet hopefulness in the statement.
Agatha’s smile is softer now, her fingers tracing patterns on the back of Rio’s neck. “I don’t think that’s crazy at all.”
Rio’s breath catches. For a second, she thinks she can do it. She thinks she can tell her. Her heart is pounding as she looks this girl in the eyes. She opens her mouth.
“I, uh–” she clears her throat. “I’m gonna go get us some final shots.” She forces a grin as she takes a step back.
Before Agatha can respond, Rio is already slipping away to the bar.
Liquid courage. She thinks as she attempts to calm her nerves.
She weaves through the thin crowd as she beelines towards the bar. She leans against the counter, tapping her fingers against the wood to catch Lilia’s attention.
“Last one for the night?” Lilia teases, already reaching for the bottle of tequila.
“Yeah, two shots,” Rio confirms.
Lilia goes to grab the shot glasses, then a familiar voice pipes up beside Rio. “Two shots, huh? That just for you, or…?” Pietro quirks a knowing brow.
She jumps, “Jesus, Pietro, do you ever not sneak up on people?” She swats his arm lightly.
He laughs, unfazed. “So… you and Agatha, huh?
Rio stiffens, eyes dropping to the counter. “What about us?”
Pietro scoffs. “Oh, come on , Rio, You’ve had heart eyes for her all night.”
Lilia sets the shots in front of her with a pointed look. “I second that, and might I add, she’s been giving you the same look? It’s honestly quite painful watching you two dance around each other.”
Rio rubs the back of her neck, avoiding both their stares. “It’s not like that…”
Pietro snorts. “Then what is it like?”
She opens her mouth to argue, but Lilia cuts her off with a raised hand. “For two incredibly smart young ladies, you’re acting real stupid.” She leans in, voice softer now, but firm. “There was a time where women couldn’t openly love each other. You can . So stop overthinking and go do something about it. If not for yourself, do it for those who never had the chance.”
Pietro chuckles. “Damn, Lilia. Ever thought about motivational speaking?”
Before Rio can even process the words, Lilia shoves the shots in her hand with a knowing smile. “Get outta here, lovergirl. You’ve got a girl waiting.”
Agatha stands against a wall, scrolling on her phone and pretending she wasn’t just met with disappointment.
Rio’s heart pounds as she makes her way back. There’s a million things she wants to say, but doesn’t know what to say first. She walks past Alice and Jen, dancing happily together, then spots Wanda and Nat in an intimate embrace.
It’s my turn to be happy .
Agatha looks up as Rio holds out a shot for her with an apologetic smile. “Sorry for disappearing on you… just wanted to get these before Lilia started cleaning up.”
Agatha gives her an understanding look as she accepts the shot glass. “It’s okay I had emails to sort through anyway.” (A lie.)
They clink their little glasses together before knocking them back, the burn of tequila lingers as Rio sets their glasses on a nearby empty table.
“One last dance?” she breathes out, offering her hand once again.
Agatha takes it. “Anything for my fake girlfriend.” She smiles, but there’s a tinge of sadness that pokes at her heart when she says the word fake .
Big Jet Plane by Angus & Julia Stone hums over the speakers. They resume their previous position, with Rio holding her waist close, gripping like she was afraid she’d disappear.
She said “Hello mister,
Pleased to meet ya.”
Agatha wraps her arms around her neck, burying her face into her skin, silently praying that she doesn’t slip away again. They sway gently to the music, each lost in thoughts the other can’t hear.
I wanna hold her
I wanna kiss her
Rio finds herself feeling grateful they can’t see each other’s faces. It lets them just be … without the weight of unspoken words, or the turmoil of looking into each other’s eyes. But, she knows this moment won’t last forever.
She has to make her move. It’s now or never.
“Agatha?” Rio whispers with a shaky breath.
“Hm?” Agatha hums in response, mirroring their earlier exchange..
“Can I- um…” Rio hesitates, “I was just…” she trails off.
Agatha pulls back slightly, still holding her close, their noses brushing against each other. She tilts her head as her eyes meet Rio’s, as if to say it’s okay… take your time…
Rio lets out a nervous laugh at their closeness. She takes a deep, shaky breath, before starting.
“I was wondering if you’d be alright with me kissing you?” Rio confesses, then immediately stammers at Agatha’s sweet smile. “It’s okay if you don’t want that, though. I’d never wanna make you do anything that you’re uncomfortable with, of course. You can totally ignore that if you want, I’d hate to put our study evenings in jeopardy. It’s just that-”
Agatha silences her with a firm tug, pulling her in as their lips finally meet.
Rio’s breath hitches before she melts into the warmth from Agatha’s lips, The world around them disappears as Agatha’s fingers thread through her hair, nails grazing her scalp and sending shivers down her spine. Rio’s arms tighten around Agatha’s waist, pulling her impossibly close.
The kiss deepens, slow and deliberate, as if they’re both trying to memorize the other’s soft lips and the taste of tequila on their tongues… as if this first kiss they share is going to be their last…
They’re startled out of the moment as an eruption of cheers, claps, and whistles rumbles throughout their friend group. As if it couldn’t get louder, Lilia blasts a celebratory airhorn, making everyone jump, as she shoots Rio a proud smirk.
“Where the hell did that come from?” Rio breathes out.
Agatha lets out a laugh, forehead resting against Rio’s as they catch their breaths.
Their bodies sway slightly to the music. “God, I’ve been waiting to do that all night,” Agatha confesses quietly, almost as if saying it too loud might shatter the moment.
Rio just looks at her. The brown eyes shine with something deep and unreadable, and it makes Agatha’s heart clench. “I’ve been waiting to do that since the first time you stepped into our apartment.”
They steal a few more kisses from one another as the last songs play out in the background. The bar buzzes with chatter and laughter, but right now it’s just them. Just their shared breath and quiet smiles.
As Lilia begins closing up, the group gathers their belongings, heading toward the door.
“Hey, there’s this 24 hour taco place that’s not too far from here. Anyone in?” Jen asks.
A chorus of agreement follows, everyone nodding enthusiastically.
“Uh, we might catch up in a sec,” Rio says, fingers laced through Agatha’s. “I have something to take care of.”
The group erupts into knowing “Oooo’s” and “Aaaa’s” as they begin walking. Pietro shoots Rio a dramatic thumbs-up before following the others.
Agatha tilts her head in amusement, “And what exactly do you have to take care of?”
Rio’s eyes flicker down to Agatha’s lips, before meeting her gaze again with a smile. “I seem to recall calling first dibs on a date with you before we left.”
Agatha lets out a soft laugh, reaching forward to tuck a strand of hair behind Rio’s ear. “Well, you’re in luck… because there’s no other date I’d rather have.”
Rio doesn’t hesitate this time. She cups Agatha’s face, pressing another kiss to her lips, soft, slow, and sure, before pulling her into a warm embrace.
They stay there, holding onto each other, savoring every second in the other’s arms, before locking hands and making their way to catch up with their friends.