Archive of Our Own

Grace Ashcroft was never meant for interpersonal relationships.

Since childhood she could never find another lost soul who would match hers, and is probably a good reason for that.

Grace was just hard to put up with.

Her personality ranges from introverted to almost non existent amongst society. Hell, little Gracie refused talking for so long that her mother, Alyssa, was terrified she was sick and took her to numerous doctors, just for them to say that her little baby was just stubborn in her innate shyness.

And when the kid finally started muttering out words.. lets just say Alyssa was given the bare minimum, not talking of course about others Grace came across, who were either completely ignored or accused by other strangers of inappropriate behavior towards children when she got terrified at the thought of someone trying to start a conversation.(They were simple misunderstandings, but little Ashcroft wasn’t brave enough to correct anyone.)

Children her age, weren’t any exceptions either. Actually, it seemed even harder than talking to adults, because these innocently looking creatures can be far more cruel.

As a teenager, Grace was just different, always anxious in the corner of a photo smiling awkwardly while the rest of the class hugged together bonded.

And it didn’t help that she couldn’t control her stuttering because every word exchange send a feeling of terror to the blonde.

Despite everything young Ashcroft did have a friend, who seemed to just not care about her pecularities. Except maybe one.

Because when shown such affection for the first time, who wouldn’t.. just get a little crush on that someone. Even if it was her only friend, even if that friend was a woman. Actually—especially if it was a woman, a pretty one at that.

Grace did not try to have friends after that.

At least she could relax when she was alone with Alyssa, who was her anchor keeping her grounded.

Well, Grace had a hard time keeping that thought after she realized that maybe—just maybe, ma and her whole obsession over moving so much could’ve caused the girl to be.. well.. like that.

But then Alyssa Ashcroft was gone, and it was just her daughter against the whole world.

Suddenly adulthood came knocking by, and it brought new opportunities, jobs, software development, graphic designer, anonymous writer and..

FBI analyst?

That came as a surprise even for her.

Though this was definitely not a thought out decision, Grace was a hella lot of a hardworker. Also, another thing, she absolutely adored technology and computers. That is probably why she was hired in the first place.

The young analyst spent her whole life online, since she wasn’t going out much.

Reading articles, corresponding with people who shared the same interests without the stress of face to face interactions, seeking.. other stuff.. and well, learning the ways of technology so quick and in detail that she could be considered an expert. (Even going as far as hacking, which, she did put in her CV)

And Grace Ashcroft grew comfy in her new little life.

But god forbid a shy woman wants some peace and quiet.

Next thing she knows her noisy colleagues are surrounding her with propositions and giving absolutely no time to breathe.

„Come on Grace, live a little!” Clark, an IT specialist and an absolute geek whom the blonde just got accustomed to had been nagging her all morning. As much as she appreciated his kindness, the man could not take a single hint from her, or well.. anyone else.

„Yeah, I mean, It’s not like we’re going to a rave.” Another colleague added, whos Grace name had a hard time remembering. “Just a night out in a remote club, that’s all we ask.”

Among the two were many more, muttering and agreeing to the two men.

“I.. I don’t… uhm know guys..” She felt trapped, definitely not wanting to go but also feeling bad about letting them down. „There.. There’s still w.. work I have to do and I.. I probably shouldn’t ..”

“Soo you’re ditching us for ….work?”

Right, points to you Grace for making the worst excuse possible.

“I..I uhm.. n..no..” The analyst stuttered trying to calm her evergrowing anxiety.

“One time, pleaseee?” They spoke in unison, knowing damn well she was in no position to refuse.

“Gee.. O..Okay, I’ll go” She finally gave up on resisting, and wished that they could at least leave her be for the rest of the work hours. Fortunately, they were good coworkers.

“Great! 8 p.m sharp!” Clark happily ignored Graces quiet protests about the late time of the gathering. “And don’t you dare drive there, ‘cause you girl are drinking with us!”

_______________________________________

Grace now stood in front of the so called “remote club” which was, in fact, not quite remote—but in the heart of the city.

She arrived 20 minutes early, but didn’t dare to come in. This was very different from what she expected, although she should’ve known Clark was not completely honest with her—if at all.

Young Ashcroft was the one to run away from stressful situations, and this time she was considering it very strongly.

„C’mon Grace, you got this.. you’ll stay for an hour, and then go home and play Assassins Creed till your eyes start to bleed..” She tried to comfort herself, but ony could do so much.

All this stress and tension were for what? It’s not like one hang-out would change her ways.

She did finally decide to come in(10 minutes late, because a little hesitation crept in while standing before the open doors) and taking a step in it felt like a violation to her every sense.

The air smelled like sweat mixed with cheap alcohol and lots of strong perfume(probably trying to mask the odor), the floor was sticky from all the spilled booze—if only.. hopefully.

The music was a mix of basically.. every genre which would be understandable considering these few drunk people fighting over what to play next while the DJ was taking shots with a pretty lady cuddled against him.

Well, at least there were a few pleasant sights for her.. most of them dressed in most revealing outfits there were.

Suddenly she felt stupid, because she seemed like the only woman who had worn casual clothes, not that she had any different except for a few work suits.

The analyst wore simple skinny black jeans with a plain grey T-shirt and her favourite leather jacket to top it off. She must’ve looked so stupid in the eyes of others, wouldn’t be surprised if someone mistook her for a staff member.. or worse.. a man.

„Gracie! Don’t stand like that, come over here!” A familiar voice broke the overthoughts as young Ashcroft spotted her colleagues in a booth in a far corner. “Shots are already waiting for ya!”

Shots? Well fuck. Shots were like a cherry on top of this circus, and now she had no choice when she’s been noticed.
She scooted over awkwardly to them as if to see if it was really her they were calling—to Graces demise, there was no error.

“Hey.. um h..hi guys.” The blonde nodded and greeted everyone as she sat down, already growing an uneasy feeling in her stomach.

Focus, Grace.

“Hey girl!” Clark changed seats to be next to her, which she was really thankful for, because as loud as he was, he was the closest thing to a friend she ever had, even if she spoke with him only in the office. “You good? Bought you tequila shots, just to relax a bit.”

The man smiled wide as he moved filled glasses with clear liquid, but his face showed a flicker of concern.

So he does take some hints.

“Oh.. t..thank you b..but I’d rather s..stick with something l..light today” She hated her constant stutters, hated how her mind worked like it was against everything that seemed normal. Except Clark listened carefully, letting her finish every word she slurred. Grace just hoped it was platonic affection, because she would have to look for new jobs.

“Ah, alright” He thought for a moment, then pushed trough the rest of the pack and went to the bar to order something.

Perhaps this whole meet-up would be tolerable if she kept her head down and take frequent visits to the bathroom?

“Beer then? I could also order you a drink but I didn’t know what you like best.”

The IT scientist placed a huge pint in front of the young woman and sat back down.

“Oh, n..no It’s great, t..thank you.”

A small smile reached her face as she took a sip.

She enjoyed beer, especially if it was draft.

Honestly, It wasn’t as bad as Grace thought, well probably because she had always assumed the worst. The booth was placed further from the crowd, so it gave a tad of privacy. Thankfully, there were no servers here, so no one would bother them, or specifically ask Grace questions what would she like.

When she first walked in the club, there was chaos, but now, after two large pints, the surroundings weren’t threatening to eat the woman alive. It looked almost cozy, of course with some downsides, like lack of a computer setup and a fluffy pillow, but it was enough. Hell, even the music became likeable, as someone with a good taste put “Romantika” on the speakers.

Techno was definitely not a genre anyone would expect her to listen, but young Ashcroft adored it, in fact, going as far as almost buying tickets to a techno concert.

The hardest part of this night was talking to other coworkers, who shared their colorful stories, bonded over family drama and even singing when drunk enough.

Grace couldn’t hide her surprise when she heard that Clark, the most nerdy man she knew other than her, used to be a dance instructor, and actually showed the group some of his moves, which were impressive to say the least, even if he was already hammered.

On the other hand Grace had.. not much to say.

Ever since being hired, she devoted her whole time to the job, not like there were many other choices. She did like to play games and doomscroll in her free time, but it was nothing remarkable, and she definitely wasn’t going to talk about what she was reading or watching on the internet.

Also, she didn’t have any family, no father in sight since infancy, no siblings who would push her limits and her mother.. young Ashcroft despised talking about her, because every mention, every thought made her lose it from sadness and guilt. It would be awkward if started to tear up in a club full of drunk colleagues.

“Sooo Grace?”

A workmate’s voice tore her away from non-pleasant thoughts.

“Y..Yeee?” The blonde slurred her words with how fast she answered what apparently had been funny, ‘cause it drew a laugh from others.

“How’s your love life Gracie? You interested in someone?” Lorraine asked with a smug look in her face, another analyst who tended to be slightly competitive, and she didn’t like Grace getting praise from the boss as much as the blonde didn’t.

The younger analysts eyes widened at the sudden attention and she couldn’t stop the panic creeping up her spine. There were plenty of excuses to not answer that question, but for someone who felt like on literal fire there were none.

And everyone was waiting for her response.

“I…I.. uhm..” And there was the stuttering again, though not everyone was as thoughtful as Clark or her mother, so Grace had to calm herself down before she ruined everything. Inhale. Exhale. “I… d..do..don’t pay a..any mind to it.”

She did it.

“R..Right now.. of… of course.”

Most nodded thinking about her words, others agreed or disagreed with Graces approach and chimed in with their own opinions.

“See Lorraine? Maybe that’s a sign for you to stop thinking about dick all the time!” Clark finally joked and everyone laughed except for the older analyst. Grace couldn’t help but notice the slight venom in his tone, was he.. standing up to her?

“Grace?”

She trailed off again.

“Yes?”

Did she do something?

“Should we go to the bar to get some more booze?” Clark asked, his tone shifting back to usual like he didn’t just humiliate his coworker.

“Oh! Gee, um..” The beer was almost gone, and some more air could help calm the storm within the small woman anyway. “Sure.”

They exchanged smiles and stood up excusing themselves as they went up to the wooden bar.

“You good Gracie?” Clark finally spoke after placing their order.

There was slight concern on his face, almost like Alyssa’s.

“Yeah.. I..I’m sorry..” The man raised an eyebrow, clearly not expecting the apology. Because for what exactly? If only Grace knew herself. It had gotten involuntary at some point, most likely since she can remember.

“Lorraine can be a total bitch sometimes.” Now it was the other’s time to be surprised. “But you’re good, shes old and envies you because Dempsey gives you praise instead of her… if you ask me.. she’s probably in-love with him.. “

“Oh!” Grace cheeks flushed slightly, she really didn’t want to take part in this weird conversation. “W..Well now that you’re saying it..”

“You get what I’m talking ’bout!” He laughed and patted the woman’s back with a little too much enthusiasm. Young Ashcroft didn’t mind it though, it was better than sitting with the rest alone anyway. Then, in a flash Clark stood up and stretched like an old cat, giving his buddy a wink. “I’m gonna go take a leak, will you please watch the drinks?”

“No problem, I’ll wait here.” She gave him a curt smile and took it upon herself to watch the alcohol in front of her.

For 3 whole minutes.

That’s all it took to notice a beautiful—no, an astonishing woman in a small booth close to the bar. This person sure knew how to bring attention to herself. Long blonde hair so shiny it made Grace wonder if it was real.(She really tried to manage hers, buying various products and trying different methods, but none could give that strong effect) Skin pale, almost completely white, sharp features another could only dream of, and that damn outfit.. black leather framing her silhouette perfectly with fishnets giving a glimpse of naked skin almost like an invitation.

God, she was gorgeous.

Grace could only dream for a woman—not even close to what was in front of her eyes—any, to be exact. After that whole situation from childhood she never dared to go on dates, not even downloading a simple app, because she was too scared someone might actually swipe right.

It’s not like there wasn’t any interest, or.. attraction. The young Ashcroft simply knew it wasn’t going to work out, so she stuck to the internet, and… a few magazines maybe?

And god damn masturbation was a great tension reliever.

She wasn’t proud of it of course, though every article she read indicated that it was completely normal. The sole thought of doing such intimate thing made her shiver, and with another person? A beautiful woman carnally next to her in her pokemon themed bed? Not happening, unless the world’s gone mad.

Graces eyes focused right back in when she saw… uhm.. another ravishing black-haired woman climbing on the others lap and start carresing her face.. shoulders.. waist.. were they a couple? They sure as hell acted like it. The young analyst almost could smell the intimate air coming from them, kissing, grabbing, sliding. The blonde woman not so gently biting her partner to draw explicit noises from them. It was like.. watching porn live? Lord, was she supposed to stare like that?

Grace, fuck! Of course not! She definitely glued her eyes to them for damn more than 3 Mississippis.

That’s when Grace noticed the blonde’s eyes—yellow so strong it was almost glowing in the dim room, were they contact lenses? Or was it some kind of illness? The only description she could think about was enticing, and watching her.

Watching her?

The young analyst turned her head back so quick it might have caused neck damage.

Clark, why the fuck are you taking so long?

Right now, the shots in front of her were looking very interesting. Oh god was she just a creep? The blonde woman surely thought that she was some kind of a disgusting pervert. Hell, Grace even looked the part right now! Especially with her big ass glasses. All missing was a camera and a big white van with candy inside.

Grace tried to act nonchalant—like she wasn’t just straight up staring at two women getting on it for good few minutes. She started nursing her fifth pint nervously, hands twitching uncontrollably and eyes darting everywhere but on that exact spot. That wasn’t weird at all.

This is exactly why no one would date the girl! All she could do was stare intensely lower than she should have, and if someone would actually put up with all this and speak to her, the analyst would probably faint or die on the spot.

Guess she would die alone, in her little apartment either doomscrolling reddit or crying for her mother while the small body took roots in the ever so cozy-

“It’s rude to stare like that, you know.”

Fuck.

Fuck fuck fuck.

This is the end, this absolutely enticing woman is going to sue her for harassment, she’s gonna lose her job, apartment, little acquaintances she has, the computer, the internet..

“Imsorryididntmeantostareigotdistractedpleasedontsuemeorgetmeinjail.”

Words came tumbling out of Graces mouth without any thought whatsoever while tears of horror formed in the corners of her eyes.

None of them expected this monstrosity of a conversation starter.

“Relax suflețel.”

Greyish blue eyes widened just slightly at the use of a foreign language. Then, the smaller woman finally took a better look at the figure in front of her, who, apparently, didn’t have a sense of personal space.

“I’m not offended, y’know, just curious.”

“C..Curious?”

“If you like to watch?”

There was a moment of silence between the two, the long haired woman smiling innocently the whole time, but her deep golden eyes carried mischief and an almost vicious sparkle. Grace hoped she’d misheard this person—maybe she was dreaming, or drunk, or dead. Yet there was no continuation, no laugh or anything indicating this question was a joke.

And Grace was sweating.

“W..What?”

She mumbled, though not sure how to react, because this situations only happened when she’d read a tad too much fan fiction and closed her eyes soon after.

A laughing sound came from that pretty mouth, good. So it was a joke after all. Young Ashcroft could finally let out the breath she didn’t even know she was holding.

“How about we put a pin on that”

Huh?

“Bela.”

So that was her name. She should have said that before making Graces mind completely blank. Patient as Bela was, she didn’t let the smaller woman shut down entirely, by giving a slight poke on the now tomato colored cheek.

“Oh! Uhmm.. G..Grace.. n..names Grace Ashcroft.”

She mustered up the most hideous looking smile mankind has ever seen, but that didn’t seem to bother Bela, who only chuckled while returning the expression. It made Grace a little less tense, though she could still hear her own heartbeat, so could probably the other girl. That was her only chance to make it right before it all went the wrong way, so the analyst summoned all the courage she had and spoke.

“H..Hey uhm.. I.. I’m sorry for st..staring a..at you and y..your partner.. I really didn’t m..mean to..”

Bela rose an eyebrow in confusion, then her face buried in deep thought, like it wasn’t the whole point she came over here?

“Why were you looking?”

A sly smile slid across Bela’s face when she finally put everything together. The pale woman really wasn’t going to give up that easily, huh? Torture must be common in wherever she came from.

“I.. w..well..”

Grace had absolutely no excuse for that, but her silence was only met with more poking on her warm cheeks.

“Gee.. o..okay.. I just t..thought.. you were.. y’know.. really attractive?”

“Oh! Well that’s nice to hear.”

But Grace couldn’t focus much on her words, because every little shuffle made Bela’s god damn gorgeous silky hair move, it was captivating, worked like some kind of hypnotic device, bringing these grayish eyes like a moth to a flame.

“I can tell you don’t visit clubs very often, so what brung this little stray here, huh?”

Both sets of eyes wandered to the long forgotten booth in the corner, which was half empty, meaning most of her acquaintances went for a smoke—or to the bathroom, to puke whatever was left of their lunch.

Bela nodded knowingly and called over the bartender to order a glass of not so cheap wine and another beer, which was probably over Graces limit for the night.

“Since your friends are busy, how about you drink with me?”

She suggested putting on a gentle, almost pleading tone, and Grace hadn’t had a single assertive bone in her body. Besides, this was her one in-a-million chance to actually talk to someone other than her nosy coworkers, or some suspicious online people. Even though the start was.. weird to say the least, maybe it was a first little step to opening herself to society? Better yet if this ‘society’ were gorgeous foreign women, definitely easier to look at.

“S..Sure, I don’t mind.”

So they went over where Bela was originally seated, shots and drinks Grace was supposed to watch staying behind on the counter. The view on the club was slightly improved from here, lights here were more dim and the music seemed more distant. It created a hazy feeling in Graces head, like being trapped in a heavy dream who later resulted in sweat clinging to one’s body while they had no memory of what happed in the last 10 years. It gave a sense of space—less crowded even though people passed the two every now and then. However, it intensified the intimacy between the two women, did someone crank up the temperature?

„Do you like the club?”

„I.. uhm.. I’m not r..really a big fan of places l..like these..”
Probably because there was a higher chance of Grace getting a full blown panic attack in a place full of touchy extroverts.

„They.. get m..me nervous.”

„I see, it might be quite intimidating for beginners, lots come as quickly as they go.”

Bela started sipping her wine, then licking her lips to not let a single drop escape to her chin. Why was this so intense? Everyone does that, but every move this strange woman made seemed full of intention.

“Though I hope to see you again sometime.”

“O..Oh? You.. come here often?”

That peaked her interest. This place was somewhat.. too ordinary and simple, and Grace always thought rich people never bothered even spare them a glance, and Bela was definitely rich.

“Yes, actually.”

A smug smile appeared on the taller woman’s face, like she was about to blow Graces mind.

“Someone has to make sure this place doesn’t get demolished.”

“What?”

The analyst blinked a few times, clearly confused.

“I’m the manager, sweetheart.”

Bela giggled, amused with the silly face Grace was making while trying to figure out what that sentence meant. Now that she did it again, it was easier to notice how pretty her laugh was. Wait—did she just call Grace a sweetheart? Surely she misheard her again? Still, the imagination did a great job yet again, making the smaller woman close her trembling thighs a little tighter.

“O..Oh! Gee um.. s..so I guess.. the d..drinks on you?”

She joked, then chugged half of her beer at once, just incase.

“Mmm.. I dunno.. I don’t usually give up things completely for free.”

Bela purred with a casual tone, but her eyes flickered with something almost predatory.

“But I guess but money isn’t the only thing of value.”

“A..And what w..would that be?”

A nervous sound followed the words when the analyst felt her new acquaintance body press slightly against her, face so close she could the wine on the others breath.

“You humour me, Grace.”

Bela slid her hand to brush the agent’s platinum blonde hair her over the ear.

“I’m starting to really like you.”

Now both could hear Grace’s heart hammering against her chest. If it was what dying looked like, she’d be happy to do so.

“…Thank you? That’s n..nice to hea-“

A raspy voice broke the teasing to the two women disappointment. Although it was maybe for the better, because till this moment, Grace forgot humans needed air to survive.

“Well what a beautiful lady do we have here?”

They looked at the source, which was a middle aged man, clearly far from sober. He also wore casual clothes, jeans and a black t-shirt, but the little brand marks were enough to suggest that his cheapest clothing was still worth more than Grace’s whole outfit. He carried a cocky smile, eyes focused entirely on the taller woman, also, evidently ignoring the analyst.

“I’m Richie, and you are…”

“Bela.”

“Such beautiful name for a beautiful woman!”

His expression had gotten only more cocky when he realized that his object of interest looked somewhat intrigued.

“I was wondering if you would like to hand out with me for a while? I am a generous man.”

“Sorry, I have company right now.”

Bela said simply, with a weirdly soft tone. Richie was taken aback, wondering if he mistook her body language.

“A..ah it’s alr-“

Grace tried to enter the conversation, but was shut down almost immediately. There was no way she could get a word with these two currently staring down themselves with challenge.

“Oh come on, I’m sure your little friend can find herself other entertainment.”

He brushed the rejection off, slightly grimacing when he finally spared a glance towards the smaller woman.

Bela looked deep in thought, like she was considering the tempting offer. Young Ashcroft wasn’t really surprised, after all she herself didn’t consider being a decent company, though it still stung, just a bit.

“And what if I said she’s my girlfriend?”

She finally answered, and with that she left both of them stunned in silence.

“Really? Guess she can tag along too.”

The man apparently had never been rejected before, still persistent in his little game much to Bela’s amusement. She finally stood up from her seat, the loss of warmth radiating from the woman made Grace shiver with restlessness.

“W..Wai-“

The agent called, but was yet again cut off with a gentle poke to her nose.

“Do you like lesbians, Richie?”

Bela whispered, positioning herself in front of the man, posture straight showing off her greatest virtues.

“Would you enjoy seeing us eating each other out?”

“Huh?”

Richie was visibly caught off guard. Eyes trying to challenge the other for a battle, but losing instantly when he caught a glimpse of the taller woman’s breasts. Of course she noticed, bending slightly to get even more advantage.

“And then maybe.. just maybe if you were a good boy, we could perhaps.. let you join.”

She warbled with a soft smile. Grace was still in shock, but her mind screamed to get out of here as fast as possible. Her body, however, stayed still as a pillar, because her gut told her there was definitely something wrong, and that it’s about to get heated. Unfortunately, she loved drama more than staying safe.

“Doesn’t that sound good?”

“I..I mean hell yeah, glad to finally meet women who match my fre-“

A loud smack could be heard over the hard techno music. It sounded painful, and looked even worse. When Grace finally realized what happened, Richie was trying to get up from the sticky floor, blood dripping from his nose, staining his expensive clothes. And for just a moment, he looked so small—so pathetic, that Grace almost pitied him.

“Eat shit, Labagiu.”

Bela took a moment to admire her own work, then turned back to look her companion, with a damn proud smile.

“God that was so hot.”

Grace blurted out, heat pooling intensely to her lower abdomen.

It was just so sexy.

Huh?

What did she just say?

Their eyes met for a second, but that second felt like an eternity. Before the analyst could even feel embarrassment, a hand was held out in front of her, fingers slightly curling in a silent invite.

“I can show you so much more, little one.”

Now, there was no way to refuse that astonishing beauty. Grace should’ve listened to her mind, the other part screaming for more.

“Let’s roll?”

“Uhuh..”

So Bela navigated them through the chaos that followed. Quickly, so they wouldn’t get caught, but also surprisingly softly, like she was holding a delicate flower—so Grace wouldn’t get her hand twisted in the process.

The two women escaped through the back door, ending up in a dimly lit alley. Only then Grace could finally come to her senses, actually taking in this whole situation. Bela just knocked out a mean guy. There was so many questions running through her head. How did she even had the strength to do that? Did she plan this from the start? Did someone call the cops? Why in hell did Grace follow her after that? And most importantly—what the fuck was her reaction?

“Ohshitshitwhatthefuck..”

That was a good time to start hyperventilating. She didn’t even do anything, but panic set in like they just committed armed robbery.

“Y’know t..that was l..like a criminal o..offense, ri..right?”

There was a moment of silence, Bela deliberately gave young Ashcroft a minute to compose herself. Then she spoke, calm as ever like she’d done it a thousand times, but her tone carried playfulness. Grace was only glad to not be her enemy.

“Don’t fret, he won’t press any charges, unless.. you’re a police officer?”

Joke clear in her tone, but taken off guard when a few seconds passed without any reaction.

“Are you?”

“No! I uhm.. work w..with the law, kinda.”

The smaller woman finally answered, mind still shaken by this whole situation. Body also shaking, but for a whole different reason.

“Grace Ashcroft, you surprise me.”

Yellow eyes now relaxed, scanning for any discomfort from the other woman. There was none, quite the opposite, as it seemed.

“I..I’m not g..gonna rat of course.”

Grace laughed breathlessly, hands rising in a sign of a playful defeat. Now that the predator has finally caught up with its prey. She turned around, waiting for the taller woman to join her so they could get out of here, maybe,—just maybe, find a more suitable spot to finish their talk.

A hand on her shoulder stopped her from taking any step further. She felt the same warm body press to her own, sending electricity everywhere.

“Let me make sure of that?”

Was that a threat? Did Grace have absolutely no ounce of luck left in her body? She trembled as a foreign fingers held her chin firm, so they could see eye to eye.

“Will you humour me one more time?”

“Um.. e..elaborate?”

Grace questioned. Strangely, she had no fight-or-flight response as she usually did, the other woman’s presence was calming, at least on the visible side. Her body muscles finally relaxed a bit after this whole adventurous night, then she turned around fully, though she clenched her jaw a little when she saw how much taller was actually Bela.

She wore a faint smile now, not the usual challenging grin. Her posture emitted this odd feeling comfort the young Ashcroft hadn’t felt in what.. 8 years? Bela was waiting for something, eyes asking for permission while maintaining the stare.

The agent had no idea what was going inside her head, what was she asking for, but there was no way out now, and Grace absolutely wasn’t going to ask dumb questions.

So she nodded hesitantly, bracing for whatever was about to come.

Bela looked pleased enough with the gesture, then closed the remaining distance between the two faces with a small kiss, one that shouldn’t scare Grace off, but promising more if let be. Truthfully, she hadn’t expected to be met with such enthusiasm, or rather urgency. It’s not like it was unwelcome, she took it like a compliment, hands drifting to wrap around Graces neck, while young Ashcroft cautiously placed her on Bela’s waist.

When they paused, Grace found herself breathless, Grayish eyes completely unfocused. It wasn’t exactly her first kiss, though by her undone looks it probably should’ve counted as one. After a few seconds the world eventually came back to her, and with that came absolute embarrassment. Before she could start apologizing for her poor performance, laugher filled the alley.

“Desperate little thing, aren’t you?”

Bela cooed, amazed whilst viewing her best work yet. She leaned over Grace’s ear, giving a testing lick before nibbling on it much to the other’s delight.

“I’m glad you decided to release all that pent up energy, got any more?”

“C…Come to my pl..place?”

“Mmm.. sounds great, though I must refuse.”

She stopped for a second to face the smaller woman.

“I still have work to do, and I don’t want to get too carried off.”

Grace nodded, feeling a little disappointed, then quickly scolding herself for being so selfish.

Obviously, Bela wouldn’t leave her workplace for a stranger who she was interested in. Then again, why did she bother with kissing Grace anyway? Maybe it was because her looks and personality screamed ‘virgin’, or she just wanted a tease. Still, that experience is something to remember forever, it meant that there was still hope she wouldn’t die alone, and well.. maybe even get laid.

“Oh.. w..well then, alright.”

The moment she tried to thank Bela and retreat to her apartment she was silenced with another kiss, more possessive this time, to keep Grace in place, because Bela wasn’t done with her.

“I might have a substitute, unless you’re claustrophobic.”

She whispered, there was something different in her tone, maybe hesitancy? It was hard to guess because it was masked with pure excitement. Unsure what to do, young Ashcroft considered her options.

A - get out of here and lose what might have been her only chance to pleasure someone other than herself(and see a real naked lady, not just in pictures)

B - accept Bela’s offer, hoping for what her mind was giving her, but also having to brace herself for if she misunderstood, and probably losing her dignity, job, or life along the way.

Yup, the answer was obvious.

Gaining the courage for the second time this night, she took the woman’s hand before feeling her lips one more time, just to be sure she wasn’t imagining this moment. Bela took it as a sign of consensus, and gladly directed them back inside the club.

“J..Jeez, you’re not s..some kind of uhm.. s..serial killer, a…are you?”

She tried to joke, but was met only with a smug smirk.

Grace rarely made good choices.

…

“I.. Bela? I don’t.. e..even know your l..last name.”

“It’s Dimitrescu, if that’ll lessen your worry, iubi.”

Bela answered, and it did make Grace more relaxed, though put much more questions in her head. Her curiosity did not go unnoticed.

“I’m Romanian, I only moved here recently, so I apologize if my native language slips out.”

“N..No worries.”

The analyst smiled, grateful for her company’s patient approach. Yet, she only grew more interested. She didn’t get to chat like that much.

“So um.. what does.. i..iube..? Iubi? Mean?”

“It’s a pet name, kind of.”

She laughed when Grace’s blush only intensified, reaching her ears, or maybe it was from the biting before? She couldn’t tell.

Bela guided her through the crowd, at this late hour there was even more people here, and so much more chaos Grace had ever seen, well maybe except on visible crime scenes that happened in big cities, which were hard to manage so the evidence wouldn’t get lost.

She didn’t go to these places often though, only if the case had been dragging on for a long time, and they had very little to work with. It very much gave her the creeps.

They continued onwards to what looked like an only staff room. Was it a managers office? Grace hoped there wasn’t any shady business involving women here, because she would have to take action. She trusted Bela though, apparently enough to be lead to a secluded space to do.. whatever this woman had in mind, actually.

“It’s not as comfy as your bed sure would be.”

Bela whispered when they finally reached their destination.

“But we can make this work, wouldn’t you say?”

Grace was.. skeptic to say the least, seeing the concoction that was storage room mixed with a cheap store manager’s office. She wasn’t expecting a luxurious bedroom.. well.. maybe a little. After all, Bela herself looked like she lived in a mansion that probably had its own servants. Can’t make any assumptions though, she didn’t even know what Bela actually wanted to do.

Also.. her apartment wasn’t exactly suited for visitors right now, or ever, considering all of the sheets she had were full of her favorite cartoon characters from childhood. Before Grace could agree in the most insincere way mankind has ever heard, a click behind her caught her attention.

Bela locked the door behind them and smiled at her innocently. When had it gotten so hot in here? Or was it just her body? An even warmer hand led her further from the door, stopping by the desk with.. a monitor full of footages from different parts of the club.

So there were cameras after all.

Bela took the initiative of pushing her companion against that exact desk, then trapping her with both hands on it so there was no chance to escape. She scooted closer against the obviously nervous but enthusiastic agent, making her stir against the desk, pushing backwards until she almost fully sat on it.

Giving herself up so easily, without any concerns and just straight up pure trust in a stranger, Bela wondered if Grace was scared to ask her anything, or just eager and desperate that it clouded her mind completely.

It was amusing to put it mildly, the slight tremble of Grace’s lips, constantly dry and in need of moisture, sweetly stuttering every now an then. That blush, so red it would normally indicate a high fever, hands fidgeting because they didn’t know where to touch, and these eyes.. avoiding hers at all costs.

Truly, what a view,

Bela almost pitied her partner on her first journey with a famished woman like her.

Then again, clock is ticking.

“Are you sure about this, suflețel?”

She finally asked, creating an opening to escape by retreating her arm back. Not for long of course, the slim fingers finding the agent’s T-shirt hem. The sensation making the smaller body lean towards the touch involuntarily.

Instead of an answer, Grace pulled her into a clumsy kiss. She had no idea what she was doing, or how these things work, it was pure instinct with a dash of knowledge from watching movies or reading.

Bela however knew exactly where to touch, press, and dig, like she met Grace’s body before—learned places that gave her the most pleasure. She took the kiss as an excellent opportunity, tongue pressuring slightly on the agent’s lips, so when a tiny gap formed, it could slip in with ease.

That worked almost instantly.

She let out a content sigh, delighted that Grace welcomed her so easily. She must admit the girl was a terrible kisser though. It didn’t matter much right know, being that she compensated with those slender hands that would definitely do their magic when properly guided. Still, might put a pin on that for later.

When they broke away, none could speak for a good moment, that kiss taking all the oxygen from their bodies.

“I.. uhm.. haven’t done a..anything like t..that before..”

Grace spoke first, while still taking deep breaths.

“C..Could you.. teach me?”

That was all Bela needed to hear.

“Oh! Gladly.”

The taller woman gave a brief assuring smile before she slowly pushed the leather jacket off of Grace, the clothing easily escaping her to the floor with a soft thud.

With neck and collarbones now more visible, Grace could’ve sworn she saw Bela lick her teeth. But before she could comment, the long haired blonde stepped closer, hands so low she wasn’t able to follow them without bumping Bela’s head with her own. Yet, the analyst felt every movement, fingers tracing the hem of her T-shirt just to sneak in, the skin-to-skin contact immediately sending shivers down her spine.

She let out a gasp, enjoying the sensation a little too much, which made her companion only more bold.

“One question, would you prefer to give.. or take?”

Bela asked as if it was just a simple question. It wasn’t. Not for Grace. So she started thinking hard about it. A basic foreplay had done this much to her, so taking anymore and coming so quick would only bring her embarrassment.

As for giving.. she did masturbate.. so it couldn’t be that different, Could it?

“G..Give? Maybe?”

She could hear a content huff before Bela started undressing herself in the most agonizing slow pace while also making the show just so enticing. She knew exactly what it would do to Grace.

“C’mon, or do you rather let me rip these off myself.”

She asked, yellow eyes pointing on Graces outfit. Oh! That’s what she meant. She didn’t have anything to do right now anyway.

So the agent stripped her T-shirt off. Impatiently grabbing the gray clothing and pulling up, the material getting stuck on her head. Bela cackled while the smaller woman struggled, finally helping her get the damn thing off.

“My my.. you really should consider wearing more revealing outfits.”

But Grace wasn’t listening, gaze fixated on the perfect body before her, and Bela hadn’t even taken off her pants yet.

Still, she was astonishing, pale white skin with little goosebumps from the sudden colder air. Toned stomach decorated with a silver piercing on the belly button. Arms skinny, yet with visible muscle lines and..

Oh.

Now it all aligned in a flawless composition.

Those breasts. When did Bela take off her bra? God, those breasts.

Grace stared helplessly, mouth slightly open from awe. Then one of her hands followed her eyes, fingers landing just barely below the woman’s chest.

“So demanding.”

Bela sighed dramatically, though her face never once showed any signs of discomfort.

The analyst snapped right back to reality when she heard these words. Blush turning bloody from shame.

“Oh..o..oh fuck.. I..I am so sor-“

The taller woman cut her of with a challenging tone.

“I didn’t say not to.”

Fuck.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck.

That was so hot.

Grace squeezed her legs just a little harder.

Keen about being given permission she continued her journey across her body. Cold fingers trailed the burning hot skin, stopping at every minor scar. None looked accidental, but neither made from abuse or self harm. They seemed more like battle marks, actually. That only raised more questions she was ashamed of asking for, though her frown had made every thought in her head visible.

It was noticed, but not met with a response.

Shame.

Eventually, Grace gave in to her desires and with a look of excitement and query she cupped Bela’s breasts with both of her hands.

You know, so none would feel left out.

All this time Bela hummed happily, enjoying every little contact she got.

She was a patient woman, but she couldn’t deny wanting more with every second passing. So when Grace found the courage to feel her most desired place, she couldn’t help but let a gratified sigh of pleasure at the cold sensation, making the woman in front of her shiver.

“Grace.”

Why did she have to use her name so much, and why the hell does it sound so good?

“Y..Yes?”

“Please touch me more.”

Bela asked, a slight blush creeping up her face, though it sounded more like a demand rather than a request.

Grace was more than happy to oblige.

She carefully pulled the woman closer, hands sliding down to her waist. Bela’s chest wasn’t abandoned, cold hands immediately replaced by warm lips, pressing little kisses everywhere they could reach, drawing another few content sounds.

Then her tongue got into work. It was surprising how well it operated given years of constant stuttering. The feeling was blissful, every time it brushed on the taller woman’s nipple, electric wave washed over her. Her own hands finding its way to the agent’s bra, unclipping it with ease and guiding down her shoulders. She could feel the vibration Grace’s mouth made when the sensitive skin met with chilly air. Good lord, she wanted that vibration down her legs.

She is a patient woman.

She really is, but how could she let her body handle this level of torture-

“..ah”

Bela moaned.

Did Grace just.. bit her?

“S..Sorry! Did uhm.. that h..hurt bad?”

The analyst was in such a haze that she might have overstepped. Badly.

“No.. it hurt good.”

Her companion smiled widely instead, all her suspiciously sharp teeth bared.

“You’re doing so great I forgot I was supposed to teach you.”

Grace found herself proud and grinning ear to ear. Only then her eyes found the black leather pants Bela wore, and suddenly all of her smugness drained from her face, leaving the nervous wreck she had previously been.

Yellow eyes followed, playful but relieved by the shift of focus.

“Right, you want to give it a try?”

Grace nodded hesitantly, her want once again winning over pure terror.

“I’m at your mercy, then.”

She had never expected to hear those words in her life. Somehow it managed to work wonders on the young Ashcroft, who now started taking the leather material off with intense focus.

She was trusted and paid full attention to, a dream come true.

The clothing slid off with ease. Bela helped by stepping out of it so they could switch positions—now being the one getting comfortable on the computer desk.

Next to come off were Bela’s panties—black as every piece of material she had on herself to no one’s surprise.

The agent paused right there to take a few overdramatic deep breaths, drawing a chuckle from her companion.

“C’mon.. g..give me a break..”

She whined, face now took on bloody color from embarrassment and innate shyness mixing together.

“But you’re funny, Grace!”

Taking this damn thing off was a nuisance, she had to be even more prudent with it, considering the extra thin product. It surely wasn’t soft, but it did its job to catch stares exceptionally well.

“Need a time out to admire?”

Yes. Yes she did.

But then she would have to make Bela wait forever.

Uncertainty now fully showing on the smaller woman’s expression. Hands wandered lower, but she kept them above the skin, afraid it would burn either her or Bela.

A pause.

Then she rested her palms on Bela’s thighs. And they were softer than any pillow she had put her head on before. Even better, the heat radiating from between them could’ve made the best sleeping experience possible. Grace chased the lingering feeling, fingers squeezing slightly as to not cause any actual harm and moved upwards, finally settling where Bela begged silently to be noticed.

Where was she again?

The analyst found Bela’s eyes, haziness from pleasure made them look so muted, almost gentle.

She wore no fear, no distress or doubt, the only emotion she could muster up was expectancy and lust.

Grace truly wanted to live up to these expectations.

Slender fingers gripped Bela’s thighs to tear them open, leaving another gorgeous view.

She was so wet. Core glistening from arousal as to welcome any intruders.

Did Grace do that to her?

A foreign arm reached her face and held her chin firmly. Grace squeaked needily at the touch, clearly about to start her work.

“Look at you, so ready to please.”

Bela smiled absently, then leaned in to steal another kiss. Impressive how Grace got better at this in such a short time. Guess third time’s the charm.

Right on cue, she felt fingers slowly moving through her wetness. A quiet sigh escaped her as she adjusted to the colder touch.

The massage was clumsy and out of the right pace at first, but Grace was so careful with her, she felt like a delicate porcelain.

It was adorable.

“A little higher.”

She whispered in between kisses, guiding Grace to her swollen with arousal clit.

The smaller woman quickly caught on, her thumb slowly circling around the needy spot.

Immediately more sweet sounds were drawn from Bela. Not loud, but constant, making it hard to focus on Grace’s lips, who desperately sought hers.

“..ah.. just like that, good girl.”

She mumbled, and Grace found herself whining at the praise.

Oh.

Bela hummed contentedly, a terrifying smirk creeping up her face. She cupped the analyst’s cheeks with both her hands, gaining the smaller woman’s attention for a second.

“You get off on praise, do you?”

Grace’s face lit up with embarrassment.

Did she?

“M..Maybe.. is.. um t..that wrong?”

“Not at all, keep it up and I just might reward you..”

Actually, hearing Bela just talk whatever she wanted was enough to make her legs shake, but praise was just fuel to a fire.

And it did motivate her to keep going.

Setting a suitable pace did wonders. Bela got so much louder that Grace was thankful for the deafening music for the first time since she’d been here.

Her mouth targeted Bela’s neck now, licking and nibbling on the skin when she pushed her head back to give better access. Grace’s free hand moved to hover over her companion breasts, finally settling to gently play with her nipples.

She was doing a good job.

The sole thought drove her to the edge.

Young Ashcroft for the first time in her life felt somewhat in charge, even if it was just for a moment.

Cautiously her pointer finger slid lower, while the thumb stayed up doing its best work. She waited a few seconds for any signs of protest, but there was none, only low moans and soothing whispers. First digit entered the taller woman with low to no effort. Her walls slightly clenching at the intrusion.

It was so wet and hot.

Both women let out a desperate whine at the feeling.

“C..Can you take one more?”

Grace asked, other fingers suddenly trembling with cold and impatience.

“Please..”

Bela was just as eager, wrapping her shaking legs around the analyst’s body, as if to stop any attempt at escaping. It was getting difficult to sit straight, so she had to stable herself with a hand gripping the desk hard.

With the second digit slipping in and starting moving in blissful unison, her other hand shot up without thought to grab Grace’s hair. Once she adjusted, the grip loosened, but kept her palm in the silk hair, stroking gently as a silent applaud.

“Yes.. yes yes.. How… are your hands so skilled..”

The agent thought about it for a second.

“Gee uhm.. I.. play a lot of c..console games?”

Bela breathed up a laugh with Grace joining in a moment later. She just realized how stupid that must’ve sounded.

“You absolutely must… teach me how to p..play next time..”

Grace’s fingers curled just in the right spot, making Bela scream her name.

“So.. t..there will be a next-“

“S..Shut up and do that again.”

“Okay.”

It wasn’t long for Bela to come, walls clenched sending waves of pleasure to all cells in her body. Her legs almost crushed the poor analyst, how did she had so much strength left?

Not that she minded it.

It was actually her name being used so much in the final moment that did the most damage.

Damage being coming untouched.

Grace didn’t even realize she was grinding against the desk this whole time.

Fuck.

“Oh.. oh g..god.”

She had a feeling there won’t ever be a next time.

“Did.. you just came?”

Bela asked after she gained enough focus to process everything that happened.

First, it was amazing, she could still feel tingling everywhere, her whole body overstimulated from the enormous amounts of pleasure.

Second, Grace was dead silent since they stopped talking. Barely even a sigh could be heard from her. For a person who was loud with her every expression, that was weird to say the least.

It was then she noticed the smaller woman’s face, flushed alarmingly red, eyes clouded and hardly functioning, a single tear rolling down her cheek. Her mouth was wide open, yet stripped from any sound.

Bela probably could’ve predicted that if she wasn’t so worked up in her own mind.

“Honestly, I’m flattered.”

Grace just stared at her with a look of terror.

Okay, that wasn’t the best approach.

Bela slowly cupped the agent’s cheeks, warm sensation washing over her palms.

“Now now, don’t be-“

Bela paused, taking the view in.

“God you look mortified.”

A chuckle escaped her instead, which, probably wasn’t the right move either.

“I’m sorry iubi, I didn’t know I had such effect on you.”

Grace blinked a few times, coming back to her senses.

“M..Me neither?”

Then, Bela leaned in for a kiss. Not the desperate and needy or even possessive kind, this one felt.. different, sluggish and a little clumsy. Tender, Grace could call it.

Somehow it made the analyst’s heart skip a beat.

“Thank you for taking such care of me, Grace.”

Bela whispered when they broke out.

“You did lovely.”

Grace smiled in return, all the tension leaving her body and getting swapped with peace and bliss.

“Happy to help.”

…

“Fancy a smoke?”

She had never tried a cigarette before.

“S..Sure.”

Cleaning and dressing up took them longer than expected, because none cared much to rush. They didn’t talk much, though it wasn’t awkward or anything. Actually, it felt nice, the silence brung no discomfort, there was just no need for words.

When they finally got out, catching a few judgy stares from guests and irritated staff, the two women didn’t bother explaining themselves and went straight up for the exit.

“Seems like your friends are gone, you have any way to get home?”

Bela asked absently, lighting a cigarette in her mouth before passing it to her companion. Grace took it with a quiet thanks and braced herself to try it, with immediate regret coming afterwards, when she almost coughed her lungs out much to Bela’a amusement.

“I..I’ll call a taxi.”

She tried to answer, but could still feel leftover smoke in her mouth.

“Ew.. it’s terrible..”

“Don’t say you never smoked before.”

Bela laughed when young Ashcroft gave her a “guilty on all charges” look.

“Just put it out, suflețel.”

Grace considered it for a few seconds before deciding it wasn’t worth it. She let the cigarette fall on the concrete before stepping on it.

She’s gonna have to get a new pack for Bela.

They stared at the city in silence as Bela went through her own smoke. It was probably after midnight now, but the streets had been even more lively than at daytime.

Grace wasn’t build for cities, yet she lived in them her whole life.

Living somewhere quiet must be nice.

“Bela? How is living in um.. R..Romania?”

The taller woman considered it for a second before speaking.

“Peaceful, back in my village we grow Grapes for wine, so there’s a lot of green field.”

Exactly what Grace would call an ideal home for her.

“My mother prefers us stay in the castle, though, we don’t do well when it’s cold.”

So many questions.

“C..Castle? Y..Your mother? T..Tell me more?”

She gave a pleading look, but Bela just rolled her eyes and chuckled.

“Go sleep, Grace, I’ll be sure to tell you more next time.”

…

“W..When will that next time be..?”

She asked sheepishly, though Bela looked like she was actually counting.

“Not for a while, but I’ll be happy to see you after you settle.”

The agent raised an eyebrow.

“Settle?”

Bela Dimitrescu just smiled and gave her a quick kiss before turning around and walking back to the club.

“Don’t miss me too much!”

What a night.

_________________________________________

The next day Grace was late to work.

She usually arrives before anyone else in her department, this time she was so late that she missed the reprimand chief gave her coworkers after oversleeping or coming in hungover ,looking like they were hit by a truck, and smelling even worse.

It wasn’t like she was always early, she didn’t enjoy having to work just as much as anyone else. It was the thought of getting called into the boss’s office with all eyes on her that terrified her enough to set the alarm every damn time.

Except this one.

Young Ashcroft scooted quietly over to her desk, setting everything up to not look like she just got here. Hopefully Dempsey would be busy enough to not notice her missing.

“Gracie! Almost thought you wouldn’t come.”

Grace shot up from her seat, bumping her leg painfully against it whilst doing so.

“Jesus Clark.. d..don’t scare me l…like that.”

The man mentioned looked just as tired as everyone from yesterday’s party, though he still found the energy to keep his loud tone.

“Sorry, I just wanted to talk about yesterday.”

Shit, did he saw her with Bela?

“O..Oh.. w..what would you like to uhm.. k..know?”

Clark gave an apologetic smile before speaking.

“I wanted to say sorry for leaving without you, but Lorraine and some others got stupid drunk and with that guy punched a while before we figured it was safer to roll before things could get more heated.”

Thank god.

“I..It’s no worries, r..really.”

She shrugged nonchalantly, but her hands were trembling with nervousness.

“G..Good call, honestly.”

The man looked relieved she wasn’t mad, but after a moment his expression turned to pity.

“Also.. Dempsey was looking for you.”

“O..Oh.. then I’ll go f..find him, I g..guess..”

At least one thing went her way, the fact that everyone was hungover helped the stares too. Grace took her latest report from her desk and pressed it to her chest as if to shield herself for what’s about to come then slowly started walking to the chief’s office.

Nothing went her way actually.

Clark saw Grace and that weird taller woman in the smaller booth when he came back from the bathroom. He didn’t approach though, everything about these two screamed “gay” and he wasn’t that kind of man to ruin his friend’s chance to get laid. Of course not everyone was as thoughtful as him, like that guy who had his nose broken.

Then they vanished.

Good for Grace.