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The night air is warm as it dances across Moira’s pale skin while she leans against the stone railing of a balcony overlooking a calm Parisian river. The greens of the hedges and surrounding shrubbery are painted in blues and whites, illuminated only by the soft light of the moon.
“Basking in the light of the moon? Has she whispered any secrets?” Angela’s voice is playful as she stands in the archway, backlit by the warm yellows and oranges spilling from the lights of the ball.
Moira tilts her head before turning to look at Angela’s beauty. She wears a golden gown made of silk, the fabric clinging to her body in a way that accentuates every curve. For a moment, Moira finds herself lost in the sight.
“My, my, Doctor Ziegler. Even if the moon has pardoned me some of her truths, I’m not sure if I would be authorized to share them with you.” Moira’s voice carries a teasing edge as she looks down at Angela, who steps closer into the night.
Angela faces out towards the gardens, her gaze lifting to the moon. “I’m sure I’m not the only one who would be upset if you didn’t share any wisdom. All of our esteemed colleagues who are dancing the night away would also be rather displeased.”
As Angela turns back to her, Moira feels momentarily out of place, a sensation that quickly passes as she regains her composure. Despite her efforts, a blush crawls across her cheeks and down her neck. “Doctor Ziegler, don’t tell me you’ve just given me a compliment.” She aims for a teasing tone but feels she lands somewhere between insecure and lovesick teenager.
Angela huffs softly, standing to her full height in heels, with her hands on her hips. “It was a compliment, Moira. You’re one of the brightest in the scientific community, and your research on biotics and genetics is unparalleled, albeit controversial. But nonetheless groundbreaking.”
She crosses her arms, adding with a touch of exasperation, “And please, how many times do I have to tell you? Don’t call me Doctor Ziegler. Call me Angela.”
Moira stands still, processing the words that Dr. Ziegler—no, Angela—has just spoken. She’s left speechless. Her most recently published paper on genetics had been controversial, to put it mildly. The scientific community at large had begun to shun her, but to hear Angela speak so highly of her research feels... good. Almost too good.
Angela is so well respected and loved by everyone, both in the community and among civilians. Moira can’t hide her blush as it deepens, spreading to the shells of her ears. “Thank you.”
A sincere smile graces Angela’s lips, and Moira’s eyes are drawn to the movement, unable to stop staring at those perfectly shaped, plump lips. “Honestly, Moira,” Angela continues, “I know you’re up and coming, but you need to grow a little more confident—not just in your work, but in yourself.”
Angela steps closer, raising a hand to brush a strand of red hair back into place. Her touch is gentle, almost reverent, and Moira feels overwhelmed. She’s always admired Angela from afar, but to be the subject of her full attention is something she was never prepared for. Her eyes flit from Angela’s lips to her eyes.
“Oh, Doctor Ziegler and Professor O’Deorain, you’re both needed inside. Jack Morrison from Overwatch is about to give a speech,” Siebren announces as he steps out onto the balcony.
Angela doesn’t turn to face him. “Thank you, Dr. de Kuiper. We’ll be on our way shortly.” Siebren nods and retreats back into the ball filled with their colleagues, leaving the two of them alone once more.
Angela’s hand slides down the sharp planes of Moira’s face, cupping her cheek. “Kiss me,” she breathes out, the words almost a plea.
Moira isn’t sure who moves first, but within the next second, their lips are interlocked. She runs her nails down Angela’s exposed back, and Angela responds with a gasp as her back arches. “I’m sure Jack won’t mind if we’re just a few minutes late,” Angela whispers, tugging the tie around Moira’s neck, pulling her down to her height.
But before their lips meet again, Moira finds her voice. “Dear Angela, I’m going to need more than ‘just a few minutes’ before I’m done with you.”