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Chapter Text

Rio walked through the glass doors of what she calls her workhome for around two years by now. Without fail, her eyes trace the walls leading up to their boss’ glass-wall office. A soft smile crept its way up to Rio’s lips as she saw the way Agatha’s eyebrows frown at something in her computer. Seeing Agatha every morning was far more addicting than caffeine. No coffee will ever compare. Breaking from her thoughts, she walks toward her cubicle.

“Rio, do you have any plans tonight?” Jen asked, without even letting Rio take her seat.

“Isn’t it too early to already be planning to get wasted?” Rio replied, letting out a small chuckle. She took her seat and pressed open her computer.

Amused at Rio’s remark, she replied with a mock roll of her eyes, “There is no such thing as too early for drinking. Alice and I were planning to try that bar we’ve been eyeing for a while.”

“You can bring that redhead you’ve been seeing,” Alice added as she poked her head from the left of Rio’s cubicle.

Rio dramatically put her head down to her desk, letting out a groan. “Don’t remind me of my emotionally dried up lovelife,” she said, earning her two pairs of confused stares. Sitting up, she explained to her two coworkers, “We broke up around a month ago, I think?” She did break up with the said redhead. Since when, she wasn’t quite sure. In her entire life since puberty, she has yet to have a long, serious, emotionally and romantically-fueled relationship. Her past relationships were always just about physical intimacy. The longest relationship she had lasted for only a little over a year. Which can’t even be considered since she was also her best friend. They were more friends than lovers if observed.

Failing to control her laughter, Jen let out a suppressed chuckle. Rio gave her a side glare, quickly ceasing the laugh.

“Seriously Rio, your breakup count is much more than the times Jen and I had a lover’s quarrel,” Alice said. Alice and Jen fight for like twice a week, so that says something.

“Hey! It’s not my fault they’re only after my body,” Rio remarked, raising an eyebrow and giving them a smug grin. But really, who could resist one Rio Vidal? A certain brown-haired, blue-eyed woman apparently.

“Ew, Rio. That’s not an idea I need to put in mind.” Jen threw Rio a disgusted look to which Rio only replied with a raise of her eyebrows and a devilish grin.

As if on cue, Agatha’s voice rang out in the office, calling Rio by her surname. “Talk to y’all later. My love’s morning won’t be complete without me, booty calls,” Rio said as she got up and technically hopped towards the office. She always looked forward to this. Their morning banter, which in Rio’s vocabulary, was their morning greeting.

Upon reaching the door, she poked her head first, saying, “You called, m’lady?” A smile crept its way to her lips as she noticed the slight falter in the woman usually domineering demeanor. It was gone in a second, but Rio, having an eagle for her eyes, caught it. No matter how many times Rio calls her that, she gets the same reaction anytime. Ignoring Rio’s endearment and composing herself, Agatha gestures for her to come closer and hands her a folder, to which Rio recognized as her report.

“What’s this?” Agatha asks. Her eyes removed her gaze from the folder to Rio’s eyes.

Rio stared back innocently. “My report for the delivery yesterday,” she replied. The question didn’t quite reach Rio’s comprehension. The report had no errors as far as she knew. Maybe Agatha just wanted to see her like old times (which is everyday).

“Yes, I know,” Agatha replies knowingly. “I’m asking why it’s written like that,” she added. Rio let out a small “oh”, which Agatha repeated mockingly.

“It’s like this, you see,” Rio replied and went around Agatha’s table. She places the folder on Agatha’s desk and leans in, the former’s black locks brushing against her shoulder. Up this close, Agatha can smell Rio’s perfume, a scent of jasmine with a hint of sandalwood. It was very Rio, and she thought to herself that she could get used to it.

Agatha stiffened at the close proximity as her employee leaned even closer, still not used to Rio doting on her - which reached to the point that she would get as close to Agatha at any given opportunity. It’s been going on as far as Rio’s first week upon hire. And Agatha couldn’t help but pay more attention to the particular employee. Also, Agatha isn’t an angel, hell she’ll even consider herself a witch, so appreciating the employee’s looks is also a part of her routine. She’s hot, she’ll give her that.

Breaking away from her thoughts, she tried to listen to Rio as she pointed her finger at some parts of the report, explaining why writing them that way would be more efficient. It made sense, reading the report really was easier that way. But, she wouldn’t admit that to Rio. They had this superior-subordinate rivalry type of relationship. She didn’t enjoy one bit of it. Certainly not (she definitely does).

As if reading her mind, Rio teased, “I’m right, aren’t I?” She wiggled her eyebrows prompting her boss to give her praise.

“Yeah, sure,” she replied indifferently, not allowing Rio to win this time. She is an efficient employee, but the way she challenges Agatha sometimes gets on her nerves. She gave a quick wave of her hand, signaling to Rio that she can go back to her cubicle. The employee straightens her stance and runs her index finger through the tip of Agatha’s hair.

“See you later, m’lady,” she said and made her way out the door. Upon reaching her cubicle, she is met by two smiling coworkers.

“Did you win?” Alice asked. Rio lets out a chuckle as she sits on her chair.

“You bet. I passed the witch’s trial this time.”

It was a little game the three of them made through the years of Rio’s employment. Ever since Rio settled into the company, it was like Agatha made it her life purpose to call Rio every time there was something wrong with her work, even if there wasn’t. So they called it the witch’s trials. Rio wasn’t bothered with this though, it was a way to interact with the woman more. And she believes that it was also Agatha’s way to spend more time with her. Delusional, one might say.

“Why don’t you try romancing the witch?” Jen states out of nowhere. Rio shoots her a frown, opening her mouth but is interrupted. “We all know of your silly little crush and occasional puppy eyes. She waved circles with her finger at Rio’s eyes. “Besides, behind all that witchiness, I think she’s the caring type of milf.”

Rio snorted loudly at the word, earning a few glares from her coworkers. She ducked her head below her cubicle at that. She agrees though, Agatha may be a terror during work, but she cares for her employees. She treats them to dinner sometimes when a project requires them to stay after work, brings them coffee when work is quite hectic, and such.

“You know,” Alice says, dramatically pausing. “That may be a nice idea. Might even loosen the boss during work.”

“That’s highly unethical,” Rio replied.

“And since when did you care about work ethics?” Jen questioned.

“Starting today?” Rio replies with a shrug.

“Come on, you’ll be doing all of us a great favor. Don’t worry about what the others will say, I’m sure you’ll still be the apple of Agatha’s anger.”

“Plus, as far as we know, Agatha is also dried up. Did she ever date during our time here?” Alice asked Jen to which Jen gestured a no. “Could be your chance,” she added.

“No, I still won’t,” Rio replied. “If I’m going to pursue her, I’m going to do it the right way. With love,” she added while drawing a heart with two of her index fingers. The couple laughed softly at their junior’s silliness.

The day went on as usual, paperworks on end. Rio agreed to go with the couple to the bar they mentioned earlier in the day. It was friday night anyway, they deserve to blackout and wake up with one hell of a hangover the next morning. As they were packing up, Rio noticed that Agatha was packing up as well. It was a rare occurrence for their boss. She was always the last one to leave the office, given that she had the most paperwork. With the idea of inviting her to their night out, Rio asked the couple who were ready to go, “What do you think of inviting Agatha later?”

The couple shared a look and each muttered “Sure.” It wasn’t that they didn’t want to go with Agatha. They hang out with her after work sometimes, clubbing, eating out, or even watching movies at one of their places - it only happened once. They can even be considered a circle of friends, outside work that is. It’s just that Agatha and alcohol don’t quite get along. The woman tends to drink until her sentences don’t even make sense. But, whatever, right? Seeing your boss wasted can serve as great entertainment and blackmail.

Rio grinned at the reply and briskwalks to the boss’ office. She stopped at the door frame and leaned her shoulder against it. “Hey boss, you busy tonight?” Rio asked rather loudly, startling the woman packing her things. She glances up at Rio and places her hand on her chest, calming her momentary surprise.

“God, vidal. Make a noise will you?” Agatha replies and continues her packing. Rio smirks and shrugs her shoulders teasingly.

“Wanna come with us later?”

“Where?” Agatha asks uninterested.

“That new bar three blocks away. Heard they make a mean espresso martini,” comes Rio’s persuasive voice. This makes Agatha stop her movements and think for a moment.

“Time?” she asks simply.

“8, wear something sexy,” Rio teases. Before walking out the office, she gave Agatha a quick wink to which the older woman only rolled her eyes on. Oh she definitely was going to wear something more than sexy. It was game on.

Chapter Text

Sporting a plum mini dress that shows just enough of her thighs, a plunging neckline, and a bodice that fits her body, perfectly accentuating her curves, Agatha drags her feet toward the entrance of the bar. The bouncer asked for her ID which she gave within a second. She lets out a scoff, amused that she was still asked for an ID. As she passed through the bouncer, she let out a soft sigh as she entered the room. The music was loud, and there were sweaty bodies dancing to the beat everywhere. This was not how she imagined her evening. What she imagined was sitting on her couch, sipping wine while watching those silly reality shows that she does not absolutely want to pay attention to. The boredom of watching makes her sleepy though. Which was ultimately the goal of her night. She figured that going out with her employees (she denies that they’re her friends, but they are really) was much better than letting herself rot on her couch. She especially enjoys bickering with a particular employee that she now sees at the far corner of the bar in their booth, wearing an asymmetrical green dress with its bold cutout design showing the majority of her left ribs and toned abdomen. What a sight, she figured.

Nobody notices her approaching their booth, seemingly engaged in a conversation, as her footsteps were muted against the loud music enveloping the place.

“Come on Rio, you’ve been single for weeks!” She heard Jen exclaim once she was within earshot. “That’s rare for you, I tell you,” the woman added.

Rio replied playfully, “I’m taking a break!” The raven haired woman glanced to her left absentmindedly, surprised at seeing Agatha in all her glory. She made an audible sharp inhale, eyes scanning her from head to toe. Game won.

“Got a room for one?” Agatha asked, taking a seat beside Rio, not waiting for a reply from the other women. Rio slightly straightened herself, adjusting her slouching position, seemingly becoming conscious of herself. Agatha liked the little bit of power she’s now holding over the woman.

“Glad you made it honey,” Rio said sweetly, giving Agatha a lopsided smile. She stared at her as if she’s seeing the universe unfold itself. If she didn’t know better, she would think Rio genuinely meant the endearment. She returned the gesture with a mocking grin.

“What’s this about Vidal taking a break?” Agatha asked the couple instead of directing it to the woman in question, tearing her eyes away from the woman beside her. Neither of them answered and averted their gaze to Rio, making her answer the question.

“It was nothing,” Rio brushed off. Not satisfied with the answer, Agatha threw her a pointed look. Rio grunted, “They’re just whining about me being single.”

“Well that’s because you need to put yourself out there,” Jen retorted.

“I do!” Rio exclaimed, shrugging and raising her hands up. That was true. She does put herself out there. ‘There’ being clubs and bars.

“Parties don’t count. You need to commit to finding a serious relationship,” Alice, who was silently watching the situation, finally spoke up.

Agatha remained silent, quite curious about Rio’s lovelife. So she was single. That’s a good thing. It’s not that she’s seeing an opportunity. Who is she kidding, she definitely sees it as an opportunity. She crossed her legs as she took a glass on their table, sipping it as she leaned back on her seat.

Rio pressed her lips into a thin smile and nodded her head no. To deflect the attention on her, she decided to take a quick glance at the woman beside her. A mistake she now realized. She saw that Agatha’s dress rolled up slightly as she crossed her legs. Her breath hitched and her fingers itched to trace the end of the fabric. Don’t get her wrong, she’s not that much of a pervert. But the unresolved tension between them all this time led her to get ideas of unholy things about her boss. Besides, Agatha also seems to notice it, lets Rio act upon it, and on a good day, she even reciprocates Rio’s provocation.

Surrendering to her intrusive thoughts, Rio lightly pinched the end of Agatha’s dress and pulled it downward, covering again the part that was exposed. She realized that it was overprotective of her. Whether Agatha shows that much skin was none of her business. But she can’t help it, she does want to have the woman all to herself.

The act in Agatha slightly choking on her drink. She brought it down the table, and at the same time, Rio tilted her head, intensely gazing at her blue eyes.

“How about you Agatha?” Rio started. Curious at the question, the couple also diverted their gaze to the woman. “No one got your heart beating?” she continued.

Agatha thinks for a moment, holding the gaze from the brown-eyed woman. “I don’t have time for those things,” she finally replied, leaning back once again. The younger woman raised her eyebrows at that, not satisfied with her answer. Agatha shoots her a quick frown as an answer.

Ready to move on from the encounter, the couple changed the topic, to which Rio seamlessly talked through. They kept talking for minutes, while Agatha simply zoned out. Wanting to be alone with her thoughts, Agatha excuses herself and tells the group she’ll be over at the bar. The three women nodded at her. She made her way to the bar, sitting at an available chair, flagging the bartender, and ordering a glass of whiskey. She spends a few minutes nursing her drink, as well as her thoughts of the young woman at their booth. She was wondering why she’s thinking about her more, now of all times. Maybe it was the fact that Rio’s finally single. Agatha never really knew a time when the dark-haired woman didn't have someone she was entertaining. That gave her thoughts she does not want to pay attention to. Downing her drink, she ordered another one. She took a glance at their booth while waiting for her drink, observing Rio. The way she laughs, her animated gestures as she says something to the couple, and the way she was just haphazardly leaning on the couch, having no care for her dress but still manages to look hot - those little things oftenly brought a smile to Agatha. She does this even when she is at her office, given that she had a clear view of the employee’s desk. She adored the woman’s energy and lively personality. Not that she’d admit it.

As if feeling a gaze on her, Rio glanced at Agatha. Rio’s brown eyes met her blue ones. Feeling like she’s caught red-handed, Agatha quickly tore her gaze away and watched as the bartender finally gave her her drink. A couple of seconds passed, and she felt a person sit beside her, facing her seat. She knew who it was, and when she glanced beside her, there she was, the woman who she was watching just a few seconds ago.

“You know, as much as I enjoy this Agatha not breathing down my neck at work, I prefer the one that does,” Rio stated with her sultry voice. “I’m already missing your voice from there,” she added, barely a whisper.

Agatha scoffed. “Really, the Agatha at work? Admit it,” she says, tracing her eyes from the other woman’s lips and back to her eyes. “You prefer me-”

“Horizontal?” Rio interrupted. “In my bed?” she continued, offering Agatha a seductive look, eyes flickering from her lips to her blue eyes.

Agatha chuckled, amused at Rio’s provocation. “Does this line really work for your women?”

Rio smiled, bringing her head down, and raising it back to face the woman in front of her. “I don’t know. I only ever said it to you,” she teased. “Did it work?” she quickly added. She did, in fact, say it to other women, and it did work for them. But Agatha does not need to know that, it’s not like she’s a womanizer. Maybe just a little bit.

Sensing the lie in Rio’s words, Agatha leaned closer to Rio’s ears. “You wish, Vidal,” she whispers.

“Can’t blame a girl for trying,” Rio replied as she tilted her head to whisper at Agatha’s ears as well.

Rio and Agatha easily fell into a light conversation. They talked about work, laughed at Rio’s silly jokes, casually teasing the hell out of each other. They were having fun, with Rio drinking her fourth glass. For Agatha, well, too many to count and she could not even bother to do so. It was a typical Agatha situation, which Rio gets amused by. It was rare for Agatha to unwind like this, so Rio makes sure she enjoys it as much as she can.

She observed Agatha up close, seeing her long lashes flutter as she lazily looked down on her drink. There was a faint blush in her cheeks, from the alcohol probably. Rio was enamored by her beauty. Plus, she was definitely Rio’s type. She wonders why she even bothers with the girls who are younger than her. Deep in her mind, she knows why. Her ‘womanizing' phase only started when she began her work at their company, and that’s where her answers lie. Those girls were only patches to cover Rio’s longing for Agatha. It only started as a crush, really, a crush she pursued not even a week in. But, the harmless flirting, the interactions with Agatha - these only added to her growing affection for the woman. Having that type of crush for almost 2 years? She definitely would begin to fall for the woman.

Unconsciously, she whispered mid conversation, “Fuck, you’re gorgeous.” She only realized that she said it out loud when Agatha’s head snapped to her side. She raised an eyebrow, processing what Rio said. She muttered a sentence, almost slurring all of the words. Rio replied with a “huh.”

“I said,” Agatha stated, much clearer this time. She paused, gulping as if that would help her speaking. “You’re fucking gorgeous too, Vidal.” she continued. She leaned closer to Rio, only a few inches away from the woman’s lips. Rio felt Agatha’s breathing on her lips, fighting the urge to lean closer. She won’t have her first kiss with Agatha like this. She wants it to be something meaningful, not something that they only did in a spur of the moment.

“What do you think,” Rio said, remembering her conversation with Alice and Jen earlier in the day. “Of a love rehab?” she asked.

Agatha abruptly pulled herself away from the other woman, much to the latter’s dismay. “Love rehab?” she asked, a frown forming at her eyebrows.

“We’ll have dates and stuff,” Rio replied. Agatha frowned at her, confused. “We’ll rehabilitate each other,” Rio tried to explain, her mind not being able to properly form an explanation. The glasses of whiskey definitely did not help.

“We don’t have romantic relationships, right?” she continued. “Well, for me, I can’t.” She pointed to herself. “We’ll try to be romantic… again. Or something like that.”

“So we’ll date?” Agatha tried to clarify, tilting her head and somehow trying to find an answer from Rio’s eyes.

“Not..” Rio glanced at the roof, thinking of an answer. “Not officially and exclusively, we’ll just learn how to love again?” She continued, unsure. She swore at herself once she registered what she said. Agatha probably thought of her silly.

“Vidal,” Agatha started. “Is this your way of asking me out?”

The answer was caught on Rio’s tongue. The way that Agatha was staring at her - like she’ll find all of life’s answer in them - unintentionally pressured Rio’s tipsy brain. So she went with a safe answer.

“It can be,” Rio replied, laying her arm across the bar table, slightly touching Agatha’s. “If you’d like.”

Agatha leaned closer again, this time towards Rio’s neck. Rio froze on her seat, feeling Agatha’s warm breath on her pulse point. She prayed to all the saints out there to not let Agatha feel her heart beating 100 kilometers per hour. The saints did not listen. Agatha leaned her head against the space between her shoulder and jaw, her lips perfectly placed on the said pulse point.

“Sure, Rio,” Agatha replied after what seemed like an hour leaning on Rio’s neck. Agatha only occasionally uses Rio’s first name. And the way she said it this time, coupled with her lip’s movement against her skin, was enough to make her feel a pulse down there.

Before Rio could reply, which she can’t anyway, she felt Agatha’s whole head weight drop to her shoulder. She turned her head to look at Agatha and shook her. The woman fell asleep. On her shoulder. After technically kissing her neck and saying her name in that goddamn glorious voice of hers. Rio let out a grunt. She turned to her side with Agatha still on her shoulder to say goodbye to her coworkers. Luckily, they glanced at Rio’s direction, saving Rio’s effort to shout across the room just to grab their attention. She pointed to Agatha’s sleeping figure and pointed towards the door, indicating that they needed to go home. The couple understood the message and waved their goodbyes.

Supporting Agatha at her side, she led them outside and into a cab she called for. She knew that Agatha doesn’t bring her car whenever alcohol was involved. At least she knew her alcoholic..tendencies. She gave the driver Agatha’s address, which she got from their system’s personnel info. She didn’t know her address by heart, obviously, she wasn’t a stalker. What she did know was her age, birthplace, blood type, whatnots. She’s only curious she’d defend.

Agatha’s house was only a twenty minute drive from the bar. And during that time, Agatha was able to wake herself up as Rio gave her a bottle of water she previously brought from the bar. She was not awake enough, however, to talk to Rio sensibly. As they reached the house, Rio assisted her out of the cab, and supported her as they walked to her doorstep.

“Can you get in by yourself?” Rio asked.

Agatha rummaged through her purse, and was able to locate her keys. She presented it to Rio proudly as if that was such a great achievement. Rio smiled at her antics. She allowed Agatha to unlock the door and get in alone, not wanting to intrude. Before Agatha closed the door, she bid Rio a goodbye wave, grinning like a child. Smiling to herself, Rio walked towards the cab. She’s so damn cute, she thought.

Chapter Text

The Monday morning, Rio clocked in to work. She didn’t even bother to place her bag at her desk, and instead, trudged straight towards their boss’ office. The door was slightly ajar and Rio took it as a cue to open it further. She leaned against the doorframe, resting her eyes at the woman who was wearing a white button up, with the sleeves rolled up to her elbows. Her eyes trace the veins running up her arms. She wonders how those hands would feel when they’re working on her. Clean your mind, Rio, you’re at work.

“What is it this time?” Rio started, expecting another “witch’s trial” today. Upon hearing her voice, Agatha finally looks up at her. But, brings her head back down immediately, as if she has no business with Rio.

“Sorry to disappoint, there’s none,” Agatha replied indifferently, continuing her scribbling on her papers.

Rio hummed at the reply, but made no effort to move away from the doorframe. If she stays long enough hovering at the door, she figured Agatha would take the first move this time. And she was right when she heard Agatha let out a small grunt. She probably thought it was inaudible.

“Is there a reason you’re still standing there, staring at me like a buffoon?” She raised her head to give Rio a look of disbelief. Rio smiled at the gesture. She walked slowly towards the room, making a beeline to the seat in front of Agatha’s desk. She lowered herself to the seat, sitting comfortably. She looked at Agatha adoringly.

“Are we not gonna talk about last night?” Rio said, passing it off as a tease, but with a hint of an insecurity of being rejected. “You do remember right?”

Agatha straightened her posture and cleared her throat. Rio noticed a redness working its way up at the woman’s neck. To provoke her further, Rio tilted her head ever so slightly, showing off the part of her neck where Agatha kissed - not really a kiss - that night. Rio gave her a lopsided smile as she brought her hands up her neck and traced the spot. The brown-haired woman’s eyes followed the whole movement of her hands. It was a normal, simple gesture. And Agatha definitely wouldn’t be as flushed as she were if she didn’t remember what happened before.

Breaking out of her trance, Agatha raised her eyebrows as she looked away from Rio. “Some of it, yeah,” she voiced out, and thankfully it came out as firm as she hoped.

Rio then placed an elbow at her desk and leaned her head at that hand. “Are you still up for it?” Rio asked, now in a serious tone. Agatha was taken aback by the sudden change. The duality of this woman. “I mean, you did agree drunk,” Rio reassured.

“I never take back my words, Vidal,” Agatha replied matter-of-factly. There was a challenge in her voice.

A genuine smile graced Rio’s lip, maybe a little too happy for her liking. Even though the whole thing was just a pretense, she would still get to date her two-year crush. This is now the happiest day of her life, and she might unalive herself tomorrow.

Agatha’s heart warmed at the smile on the other woman. It was so happy. But, she bit back her smile. She’s not a teenager who gets flustered at her crush’s smile for heaven’s sake. And it’s not like she’s her crush. No.

“So, how are we going to do this?” Rio started, breaking her happy thoughts. She’ll deal with those later. “Should I plan them or..?” she continued.

“Do you want me at your beck and call, Vidal?” Agatha asked, tease lacing her voice.

“No,” Rio replied slowly. She removed her head from her hand and adjusted her seat, now placing her whole forearm behind the backrest of the chair. “If you wanna be in control, you can be,” she said with a slight tilt of her head.

The two had a somewhat staring contest, blue eyes vs brown ones. Agatha refused to reply as she was now having a silent battle with her mind. The sentence made her brain go into haywire. The way that it was said sparked something in her. A need to take control.

Clearing her throat, she dismissed the younger woman. “Go back to work, Rio.”

The younger woman let out a small chuckle and got up from the chair. She made her way to the door frame. “Te veo,” she said and went out of the room.

The rest of the day went normally. Normally meaning drowned in paperworks. This is one of those days where they were swamped with work, usually after acquiring a new client. This is also one of the days where you will not see Agatha step a foot outside of her office. So, Rio puts their plan aside for the meantime. Agatha has a lot on her hands as it is.

When the clock strikes at 5 noon, most of the employees eagerly packed their things, excited to go home and rest at the comfort of their beds. Rio checks in on Agatha, she was still neck deep on her papers, so Rio decided to let her be. As she was packing her own stuff, Lilia, their mother figure in their office, offered to treat her and the couple to dinner at the restaurant one block away from their office. She said that they all deserved it after the long day they’ve had. She was indeed hungry. And her back hurts. Signs of aging perhaps - she’s not that old.

As the group proceeded to walk out the office, Rio decided to have a stopover at Agatha's office. She knocked on the already opened door. “Hey, we’re gonna grab dinner, do you want to come?” she asked Agatha.

Agatha looked up at her and offered her an appreciative smile. “I’ll eat at home,” she replied.

Rio nodded at her answer and went back to the group. The dinner was fantastic. It’s exactly what they needed tonight. They stayed at the restaurant for a little over an hour before they went their separate ways. Rio decided to stay and order Agatha some food. She figured that the woman will probably stay very late, a hobby of hers, and might forget to eat.

The dark-haired woman made her way back to the office, a greek salad in hand. It was Agatha’s favorite, Rio observed. There were times when Agatha would do a little dance with her shoulder while eating it. She thought no one would notice, but Rio did. And let’s just keep how she was able to see it a secret. It’s not like her eyes are glued to the woman every time. That’s creepy (well, some says Rio is creepy at times).

The door was still open, just as she had left it about an hour ago. However, Agatha was no longer in her chair. Intrigued, Rio silently made her way to the office. There on the office couch, she sees Agatha sleeping. Her feet were dangling on the edge of the sofa, one hand resting on her forehead, the other at her abdomen. She was very tired given that she settled on sleeping on the couch that is too small for sleeping.

Agatha looked deep in sleep, so Rio decided not to wake her up. She placed the food at the coffee table and looked for a small piece of paper. Upon acquiring one, she wrote ‘eat up -rio’ and placed it on top of the food box. Just as she’s about to leave, she felt a cold gust of air from the air conditioning. She glanced at Agatha and saw that she only had the button-up that she was wearing earlier. She must be cold, she thought. Rio then removed her coat and draped it over the sleeping woman, hoping that it would somehow protect her from the cold. She took one last glance at her and went home.

The morning after, Rio was met with her signature coffee, an azalea, and a small piece of paper at her desk. She immediately knew who these were from. She grabbed the coffee, and felt that it was still quite warm. Must’ve been bought not too long ago. She sipped at the drink and picked up the flower inhaling its scent. She placed it at a safe spot in her desk for safekeeping. She then picked up the paper. Written there was “thank you for last night - finish your work I’m watching.”

There was an intense fluttering in her stomach, making her smile against the rim of the cup as she took another sip. Bringing it down, she glanced at the woman behind the glass walls of the boss’ office. Agatha was already looking at her. She winked and brought her own coffee cup mimicking a toast. It was the same cup as hers. Rio returned the gesture.

Looking back down at her desk, she felt a smile that reached up to her ears. Who knew that the great Agatha Harkness was such a romantic. She was into the deal just as much as she was.

Chapter Text

Rio wasted no time the next day. She went straight to Agatha’s office, practically hopping with excitement. She’s finally going to ask her out. There was still no plan however, but she figured that she would have the rest of the week to plan for their first date, which she swears she’ll make memorable. She landed a single knock on the office door, opening it without bothering waiting for an answer.

“Morning Agatha!” Rio delivered lively. The greeting made Agatha wince. Rio’s energy was too much for the morning.

“What got you excited?” Agatha asked, locking her gaze with the younger woman.

“I was wondering..” Rio started, raising her finger and twirling her hair with it. It was an attempt to be seductive, but upon doing it, she realized that it was anything but. “Are you free this Saturday?”

Agatha raised her eyebrows, amused. She put down the pen she was holding, interwined her hands together, and leaned her head on them. “Well, in fact, I’m not,” Agatha replied.

Rio’s smile vanished and her shoulders drooped down. She let out a weak “oh.” She is such an open book, Agatha thought. Her disappointment was up to the roof.

Deciding to continue teasing the younger woman, Agatha continued, “I actually have a date.” The look on Rio inevitably made her smile. It looked like the world was falling apart on the woman. “Send me your address, I’ll pick you up at 6,” she added. The expression that graced Rio’s was that of shock.

“Oh! It’s with me?” she replied in disbelief. Rio thought that she loved having no plans after all.

Agatha frowned at the question. “Do you want me to go out with another woman, Vidal?”

“No! Definitely not. I’ll have you all by myself.” The smile that Rio sported a while ago was back, coupled with a playful wink.

Agatha opened her mouth to make a comment on the sentence. However, before she was able to do so, Rio darted out of the office. The woman was impossible, she thought. But she felt something about the comment. Her being all for Rio. It definitely made her feel.

Rio sat on her seat with a loud thump, her excitement visible on her whole body. She opened her computer, starting her work while humming happily. After a few seconds she saw Jen stick out her head from the partition of their desk.

“Geez Rio. How much coffee did you drink?” Jen said, sarcasm lacing her voice. There was a hint of curiosity somewhere in there.

“What? Why?” Rio replied playfully frowning at the woman.

“You’re awfully energized early in this morning.”

Before Rio could reply, Lilia passed by their cubicles and said, “Probably due to someone, eh?” She walked away nonchalantly afterwards. How did she know, Rio thought. It’s not like anyone already knows about her agreement with Agatha, and no one definitely heard them in her office. Must be her psychic powers.

Jen looked at Rio for confirmation, if it really was due to someone. Rio grinned and raised her eyebrows twice.

“Oh my god, spill,” Jen exclaimed.

“Where’s Alice?” Rio asked. As if on cue, Alice arrived at their cubicle holding two coffee cups. She gave Jen the other one, and gave her partner a quick peck on the cheek. Rio dramatically gagged at that. Once settled, Rio filled them in on what had happened since Friday. She told them from the moment Agatha agreed to the rehab, to which the couple audibly squealed at, to their interaction this morning.

“We totally support you,” Jen said as Rio finished her story. “Agatha will no longer have her panties in a twist at work from now on.”

“Won’t that complicate things at work?” Rio asked for validation. “I mean, she’s the boss and she agreed, but I’m still an employee.”

“It’s not like you’re going out for real though?” Alice answered. “It’ll be like you two are just hanging out,” she added.

“You’re not leveling it up to the physical level, right?” Jen asked, concerned.

“No,” Rio answered, convincing them. “No,” she repeated more firmly this time, nodding her head furiously. But it’s more like she’s convincing herself, rather than them. She might get to ‘date’ Agatha, but being reminded that it will not be real surprisingly brings a pang to her chest. She wondered if her real chances with Agatha would go down to zero due to this. She desperately hopes not.

The rest of the week passed by in a blink of an eye. Before Rio knows it, she finds herself standing in her mirror, several of her clothes lying - littered to be specific - all around her room. She debates on what vibe she’s going with; the hot masc vibe or the hot femme vibe. She decides on the former, trying on a matching black trousers and waistcoat - which neckline reaches just about the end of her sternum. It fit her perfectly, showing a full view of her shoulders and arms. Add in a view of her cleavage as a bonus. She pulled up her hair into a ponytail, leaving her curtain bangs framing her temples. Having only a few minutes left, she applied a green smokey eyeshadow look to her eyes, and a berry nude lipstick to her lips.

Five minutes before the clock strikes at 6 o’clock, Rio hears a notification sound from her phone. Agatha sent her a text message saying she’s already in front of her apartment, waiting. Without letting another minute pass, Rio went out of her place, into the elevator, and out of the apartment. At the front of her building, she sees Agatha’s Porsche 911 in Violapurplemetallic , parked with its engine in motion. The car never fails to amaze Rio, it’s like wealth on display.

Agatha rolled down the passenger window as she saw Rio walking towards the car. She beckons Rio to get in as the woman stands beside the door. Her eyes automatically scan Rio’s whole body as she gets settled in, taking in the outfit of the woman. She can’t help but notice the way her outfit showed the entirety of her collarbone and neck. An easy access.

“Looking good, Vidal,” she said as Rio closed the door. This prompted the other woman to look over her outfit as well. She was wearing a white trousers along with a white one-button suit jacket with nothing underneath. They were matching and that made her smile.

“Looking sexy, Harkness,” Rio mimics, giving her a sly wink. She fastened her seatbelt before adding, “You brought purple.” Purple was Agatha’s favorite car, and they only see it on rare occasions. Seeing that she drove it just for their date made Rio special.

“It’s our first date after all. I want the best for you,” Agatha replied as if it was the most obvious thing to say. She turned her head towards the windshield as she started driving. “Romantic enough?” she added, giving a quick glance at Rio’s direction.

“Yeah, very.”

They easily fell into conversation as they drove, and it took them about half an hour to arrive at their destination. As Rio glanced around, looking for the place of their date, her jaw literally dropped. They were at the infamous Palace Royale, a very, very luxurious restaurant that takes weeks just for a reservation. Rio was left speechless as they entered the place, and were guided to the second floor where only a single table was placed. The whole thing was as romantic as it can get. Candles, flowers, fine tablecloths decorate the single table.

“Sometimes I forget you’re still our CEO. You really reserved the whole place just for us?” Rio says, breaking her reverie. Her face was probably funny-looking as she can’t hide her impressed look.

“I may have pulled a few strings for the place. It belongs to a close friend of mine,” Agatha replied as she looked over her shoulder to reply to Rio as she was walking ahead of Rio all this time.

Rio looked around once again and noticed a fireplace situated in the middle of the room, fire sparking inside it.

“It has a fireplace?” Rio stated in disbelief. “A fireplace really?”

Fully facing Rio this time as she led them to the table, Agatha replied, “It is called a palace for a reason.”

Rio pointed at the couch, hell even the couch looks like it costs about three months of her entire salary. “Let’s eat there.”

“You do know there’s a table that’s been setup exactly for eating?” Agatha shoots her a scowl in incredulity.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Rio exclaimed. “There’s a fireplace!”

Rio grabbed Agatha’s hands, regardless of the woman’s dissent, and led them away from the table to the fireplace. She only lets them go as she sits on the floor, leaning her back against the couch, feet crossed beneath her. She looks up at Agatha and pats the floor beside her. She obliged but not without a dramatic grunt, bringing her knees to her chest.

“You’re really making me sit and eat on the floor?”

“Come on, I know you’re not that much of a snob,” Rio replied with a soft cuckle. “You’re my friend just as much as you’re my boss.” She only registered what she called Agatha just after she actually said it. Well, they’re only friends, aren’t they? It’s also safer to call them that.

Agatha’s stature slightly falters upon hearing the word “friend.” That’s right, that’s what they are. Friends, she thought

They were saved from the oncoming awkward silence by the waitress that came to take their orders. As they finished telling the waitress their order, Rio decided to change the topic.

“So, what made you give up on romance? I don’t think it’s simply because you have no time for it,” Rio questioned.

Agatha thought of her answer, figuring that she’s just gonna go with a reserved answer. But the way Rio was looking at her, like she’s allowing her to be vulnerable right at that moment, made her think otherwise. So she settled for the truth.

“I really don’t have the time for it,” she replied. “And I don’t think I’m cut out for it. I only had one long serious relationship and even that ended in a divorce,” she continued, ending it with an awkward chuckle. Rio searched her blue eyes for a moment thinking of a comforting answer.

“I don’t really believe that,” she settled. “You’re sweet, Agatha, you’re caring. You care for us even if we’re just your employees. What more for the person you love?”

Agatha was taken aback by the answer. No one dared to describe her as a sweet person. She’s only seen as this demanding, intimidating person. And the fact that Rio saw something else behind that facade that she built brings a strange warmth to her chest. She nodded appreciatively and gave Rio a soft smile. She looked away, feeling as if she’ll get sucked into the space that is Rio’s eyes.

A moment of a comfortable silence enveloped them. Agatha, as if returning the favor, asks her, “How about you? Why do you need this rehab?”

“Now my answer will just look lame compared to yours,” Rio replied, her voice having a hint of embarrassment even as she covered it up with a soft laugh.

“There’s nothing wrong with whatever reason you have. We each have our own struggles,” Agatha reassured her, staring at her with genuinity.

“I - how should I say this? I’ve really never got into a relationship with emotions and stuff. I mean yeah, I think I loved them, but I’m not in love with them, you know? I just don’t feel that emotional, spiritual connection with them. There’s only the physical intimacy, satisfying each other’s needs,” she stated.

“I think it’s similar to yours, I’m not cut out for that.” Rio continued.

“Maybe you just haven’t met the one.”

“I didn’t think you’re such a romantic, Agatha,” Rio replied, nudging her head to Agatha’s.

“Shut up, I’m trying.” Agatha rolled her eyes as she grinned.

They let a couple of minutes pass without breaking the silence, giving time for them to process what they heard from each other.

“Well, we got those aside. So, how should we do this rehab?” Rio started.

“Isn’t this your plan?”

“Yeah, I know, but when your brain is high on whiskey, you never really know what you’re saying.” Rio shrugs. “I say we just go for it,” she added. “Let’s go on dates and stuff. Be romantic with each other. But let’s not go beyond what we wouldn’t really do in a relationship. We’ll just do what we’ll do as if it’s real.”

Agatha nodded as recognition. “Are we going for intimacy?” she asked, curious. She wouldn’t really mind that though. It makes her a little bit excited even.

That brought a blush to Rio’s cheeks, as images of being intimate like that with Agatha plagued her mind; her fingers brushing through Agatha’s hair, gripping it as they devour each other, her hands brushing against Agatha’s, her mouth tracing her neck and lower and lower. Brushing these thoughts away, she replies, “Let’s just do the bare minimum. One kiss, maybe? Just to test how it works.” She pats herself in the back as she takes the offensive, but at the same time controls her goddamn dirty mind.

Once again, the waitress saved their asses from the conversation. They really should give her a huge tip for that. Due to Agatha’s insistence for them to eat on the table, they did, much to Rio’s dismay. As the two ate, they engaged in small talk, enjoying each other’s company. It comes naturally to them. They talk about the little things, throwing in a tease from here and there. Their chemistry is natural. They can even put up a fight with the periodic table if it comes to it. Once they finished their courses, they were served the menu for the desserts. It made Rio see the stars as she saw the variety of the danish pastry available. She was a sucker for the dessert, and Agatha took a mental note for that. After finishing off their food, which Rio only ate for a matter of seconds - she literally inhaled the food - Agatha ordered a bottle of wine dated from the nineteen-something. Rio couldn't even bother to register the date since one thing she knew was that it must have been very expensive.

Agatha decides to humor Rio’s wish to spend time in front of the fireplace, and so, she brought the wine and Rio brought their glasses to the area. They assumed their previous positions and poured themselves wine.

“You really are our CEO,” Rio started, and Agatha gave her a befuddled look. She let out a single laugh at that expression. “This wine must be expensive as shit,” she continued.

“What can I say? I’ve built an empire,” Agatha replied, exaggerating the fact.

“How do you do that? Make us feel like we’re on the same level as you? You don’t make us feel as if we’re beneath you.”

Agatha was amazed as Rio continues to surprise her tonight. She asks such deep questions, answers with meaningful messages.

“I’m still just a person, Rio, I don’t see the need to look at people any less,” Agatha replied sincerely. “Besides, we’re just a small company.”

“Regardless, you still sustain lives, families by giving them a job.” Rio says as a matter-of-fact. “You’re really a good person, you should know that,” she continued.

Instead of answering, Agatha gave her a look of gratitude and appreciation. She placed her hand above Rio’s and gave it a light squeeze. It’s almost impossible not to like this woman. And now that they’ve shared a connection this evening, and Agatha gets to see a new side to Rio that is very validating and genuine, she’s sure that Rio would have a special place in her heart.

They sipped their wine silently watching the fire sparking in its place. Agatha didn’t remove her hand on Rio, and couldn’t be bothered to do so. She liked it, the warmth that emanates from Rio.

“I like this,” Agatha says after a while.

“Like what?” Rio turned to look at her.

“Us whispering such sweet words to each other.” A blush krept its way to Agatha’s cheeks. Never in a million years did she imagine that she'd say those words to someone. She’s gone soft, she thought.

“This can’t even be considered sweet, Agatha, I’m sure we can do better than that,” Rio replied with a challenging smirk. “I know I can, can you?” she added.

“Don’t challenge me, Vidal, you’ll meet your demise.”

“Let’s add it to our rehab then. Say the things you like about me, and I’ll say what I like about you. Kinda like a roleplay.” Oh that was a dangerous territory, Rio thought. It’s like setting herself up to heartbreak, knowing that what Agatha may say might not even be true.

“That your kink?” Agatha replied, now her turn to look at Rio.

“I bet you’ll know soon,” Rio replied, gazing intensely at Agatha. She tore her gaze from Agatha’s and placed it back to the fireplace. “First, we need a safe word,” she says out of nowhere.

“Oh, I didn’t think we'd progress that fast, Vidal.”

“Get your mind out of the gutter, Harkness. It’s just a safe word so that we’ll know if we’re crossing our boundaries,” Rio replied with a chuckle.

“How about, line?”

“Line? As in crossing the line? That’s so simple.” Agatha mockingly scoffs.

“Hey! If it works,” Rio said as she shrugged. “I’ll start.” Rio turned her whole body towards Agatha, which the other woman mirrored. She held Agatha’s hands and met her gaze.

“I like you Agatha, I like everything about you.” First sentence in, and they’re already blushing like crazed teenagers. They both blame it on the wine.

“Your wavy hair, how I wish to one day just be able to freely run my hand through it anytime of the day. Your eyes, god, your eyes. I just want to melt into them every time you look at me. Your domineering personality at the office, the way you command us just the right way, the way you have everything and everyone under control,” Rio states, voice sweet as honey. She stops for a moment to think of any other things to say. “Your care for your employees and people, ensuring that we got all that we deserve.”

Rio finishes her turn, breath staggering as she realizes that she’s basically confessing to her boss right now. It’s not only her, she realizes, since Agatha is also letting out heavy breaths. Breaths that she can feel from a distance. It was hot.

She nodded at Agatha indicating that it’s her turn. Agatha gave a light squeeze on Rio’s hand. She straightened her spine and cleared her throat before beginning.

“I like you too, Rio.” There was a slight stuttering on her delivery.

“Your energy that seems to be contagious in the office. The way you get so animated even just in simple talks. The way you secretly help us - help me in the little things.”

Rio raises her eyebrows at the sentence, silently requesting Agatha to elaborate.

“Yes, I know that it's you who cleans my mug in the kitchenette whenever I forget to,” she said, giving a soft laugh. “You’re not that stealthy you know, I saw you in the morning one time.” Rio gave her a lopsided smile.

“That alone shows that you have a good heart,” she continued.

Both of the women melted into each other’s gaze, flushed at the things they said to one another. It was Agatha who made the next move, carefully placing a hand on Rio’s cheek. She let her thumb caress the woman’s cheekbone, and when Rio leaned in to her touch, she took it as a sign of approval. Her gaze focused on Rio’s lips, and surrendering to her thoughts, she brought her thumb to Rio’s bottom lip, prying it open. She let all the concerns and consequences she could ever think of if she kissed the woman go. She closed the distance between them, landing her lips to the softness of Rio’s.

They stayed still for a while, savoring the feeling of each other’s lips. This time, it was Rio who made the move. She leaned closer, putting pressure on their kiss. When Agatha let out a surprised sound, Rio was fueled. She parted her mouth slightly to give a lick to Agatha’s lip. From there, their kiss only got more heated.

Agatha took the lead as her tongue entered Rio’s mouth, exploring every corner. Without breaking their kiss, Agatha got up and sat on Rio’s folded legs, basically straddling the woman. She removed her hand on Rio’s cheek and placed both hands on the couch, one arm beside Rio’s temples, leaning her whole weight into it. She felt Rio’s hand settle on her waist, supporting her. Between her arms, she pulled Rio’s bottom lip between her teeth and sucked at it. Rio, aroused by it, let out a moan against her mouth. It made Agatha lean down more, deepening the kiss as much as she could. Their kiss became more hungry, fighting for dominance with their tongue, breaths mixing with each other. Agatha pulled away to take a breath, and saw Rio’s cheeks flushed, lips swollen from their kiss.

Having enough air in her lungs, Agatha placed both hands on Rio’s jaw, and leaned in once more, staring at the lips she decided to devour again. Before she reached the said lips, she felt Rio push her back lightly at her waist. As if on reflex a frown formed at her eyebrows.

“This is still for the rehab, right?” Rio asked, breathless.

“Yeah, sure,” Agatha continued to lean closer, but Rio pushed her back again.

“It’s still a one time thing, okay?”

“Oh, just shut up and kiss me,” frustration was evident from her tone.

Smiling, Rio finally decided to close their distance. She felt ecstatic, lost in the sweetness of Agatha’s mouth, her breath caught in her lungs, her ears having a field day from Agatha’s soft moans. It’s everything she imagined and dreamed to be. Fulfilling her fantasy, she places her hands at Agatha’s cheeks, and she lets her fingers brush through Agatha’s hair, slightly tugging at it which elicited a moan from the woman. Once she felt that Agatha’s touch left her jaw and traces lower and lower almost reaching her breasts, she knew that if they continued, they wouldn’t be able to stop. That would certainly cross the line. She vowed to herself that she would keep it completely romantic for Agatha, physically restrained.

“Agatha, line,” Rio says in between kisses. “Line,” she repeats as Agatha doesn't stop. As much as she wants to go further with her, they can’t go there. With much determination, she grabs Agatha by the shoulders and ever so slightly pushes her back. Agatha pulled her bottom lip slightly as she bit it for the last time.

Agatha throws her head back and catches her breath. “Why would you cockblock yourself?” she says as she brings her head back down to stare at Rio.

“This is our boundary,” Rio explains, showing a bit of disappointment in her face.

With that, Agatha gets off of Rio’s lap and sits back to her prior place. She rests her head on the couch and tries to stabilize her breathing. She places the back of her hand on her eyes, hiding her flushed face from Rio.

“Why the fuck are you such a goddamn good kisser,” she manages out in between her breaths. Rio chuckled at the comment.

“That’s how much I’ve waited for you,” Rio replied, earning a side glance from Agatha.

They stayed still for a while, stabilizing their breathing and composing themselves. Agatha then mentions that they should go home. Rio thought that things would be awkward from now on, but she was proven wrong when Agatha grabbed her hand as she got up. They walked out of the restaurant hand in hand. The ride back home was silent, save for the lustful glances they threw to each other.

When they arrived at Rio’s home, she got out of the car and went around to the driver’s window. Agatha rolled down the window, and in quick motion, grabbed Rio’s face with both hands and placed a quick peck on her lips. Rio was surprised by the gesture but smiled at the kiss.

“Goodnight Rio,” Agatha says.

“Goodnight Agatha.”

Agatha rolled her windows back up, and Rio watched the car drive away. Rio was left standing in front of her apartment with a stupid grin on her face.