“I’m just going to say it, I really don’t think that this place can beat Lux Brew,” $!{roommate_name} says as the two of you walk inside the Steamy Bean. Besides the catchy name, you two decided to go to the coffee shop because it was close by and pretty inexpensive. Immediately you’re greeted with the smell of coffee beans and espresso. As for the shop’s decor, it was rather monochrome, save for the huge ivy background in the corner, which people were taking pictures in front of. All in all, a coffee shop befitting a downtown environment. You and $!{roommate_name} join the line, glancing up at the menu. There were a variety of coffee and non-coffee based drinks to choose from. “I think I might go for the ‘Knock on Wood’. It’s chocolate based,” $!{roommate_name} says. “What are you thinking?” *fake_choice #“Hmm, maybe the peaches and no cream lemonade. So, basically peach lemonade…” #“The ‘Tall, Dark and Coffee’. Pretty sure it’s chocolate based too.” #“I’ll just get a water or something.” #“The ‘Urban Grind’. With five shots of espresso, sounds like something a stressed out CEO would drink every morning.” #“Just a plain hot coffee.” #“That sugary flowery sounding drink.” After choosing your drink of choice, you and $!{roommate_name} wait over by the window for your drinks to come up. You two make conversation about random things until the coffee shop door suddenly flies open. You watch as a figure rushes inside with a laptop in their hand and papers trailing behind them. Once they speak though, you know it's Lyon. He speeds to the counter and starts talking. "H-Hi Bev," Lyon pants. "Could I get—" "We're working on your Urban Grind with almond milk, Lyon. Like we do every morning," Bev reminds him with a smirk. Lyon blushes brightly and profusely apologizes, backing away from the counter. He eventually finds a seat towards the back and puts down various papers and notebooks, as well as his laptop. Soon enough, he's working so intensely, it's hard to believe that he was all over the place just a few minutes prior. You snap back to reality when $!{roommate_name} nudges you with ${roommate_his_her} elbow. "Who is that, eh?" $!{roommate_he_she} teases, handing you your drink. "That's Lyon. He's in charge of looking out for my online presence. Who's talking about me and all of that," you explain, taking a sip of your drink. $!{roommate_name} looks back over at him with a hum. "He's not that bad looking. If you want to go talk to him, or whatever, I'll hang back," $!{roommate_name} offers. *fake_choice #"Nah, I'm good right here." *set roommate %+5 *set lyon %-5 *set robincoffee "yes" $!{roommate_name} chuckles and looks around for an empty seat for the two of you. You two eventually sit down in front of a wall well decorated with coffee decor and begin to make a bit of small talk. Eventually there's a lull in conversation, which you don't mind. Your roommate looks away from you, at nothing in particular, before ${roommate_he_she} gasps suddenly. "What?" You ask, following ${roommate_his_her} gaze to the front door of the coffee shop. A woman who looks vaguely familiar steps inside, working on getting her barrings. "Oh my God. That's Robin Greene," $!{roommate_name} breathes. "You know, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}'s ex." Robin takes off her sunglasses and runs a hand through her silky black hair, waving politely to a few cameras recording her every move before stepping up to place her order. The dark skinned woman is barely phased by how starstruck the staff seem, even taking a few pictures with the staff before stepping aside to wait for her drink. "I still can't believe her and $!{royal_first_name} broke up. They had their ups and downs but I really thought they'd make it, you know?" $!{roommate_name} says to you, causing you to look away from the model. How does seeing Robin in person make you feel? *fake_choice #Excited. I can finally ask her about dating $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}. What she says could help me in wooing ${royal_him_her_them}. "I'm dying to know more about $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}," you say, getting up and walking over towards her before you could stop yourself. "Wait up, $!{player_first_name}!" ${roommate_he_she} exclaims, following after you with wide eyes. Before you know it, you're standing in front of the supermodel, who watches you with curious eyes. You take in her appearance as well. Robin wears a form fitting tan dress, with clear heels and large gold hoops. The bag on her shoulder is rather small, but you're sure what it lacks in size, it makes up in cost. "Hi, did you want an autograph or something?" She asks, making no comment on how you looked her over, but her arched eyebrow clues you into the fact that she did at least notice you doing so. "No," you say at the same time your roommate exclaims, "Yes!" You give ${roommate_him_her} a blank look, but at least ${roommate_he_she} has the decency to look sheepish. Robin smiles a bit and digs out a small photocard of herself walking down some runway. She quickly signs it with a flourish before handing it to your starry-eyed roommate. "Uh, come and get me when you're done, $!{player_first_name}," $!{roommate_name} says dreamily, walking back to your table with the card in front of ${roommate_his_her} face. Robin's eyebrow raises again at the mention of your name. *page_break "$!{player_first_name}? My circles have been buzzing about you and The Odessa Dating Games," she says, inviting you to take a seat at a nearby table with a wave of her arm. The crowd gathered near her dissipates once they realize she's busy with you for the time being. "Really?" You ask, though it makes sense given her status. Robin nods. "Yes. It's always interesting when somebody makes a splash into the royal scene like you have." *if (background = "guard") She chuckles quietly. "Or again, in your case." The model begins to play around with a ring on her pointer finger as she talks. "People buzzed about me too when I first started dating $!{royal_title} ${royal_first_name}," she adds. "I actually had a question about ${royal_him_her_them}," you begin. Robin straightens up in her chair and immediately stops playing with her ring. "Oh?" "Yeah, I was wondering…" *fake_choice #"What do you think of $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} now? It's been a minute since your breakup..." Robin sighs and resumes playing with her ring. "I think $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is fine, all things considered. It's been ages since our last conversation though, which will be weird since—" Robin immediately pauses and runs a hand through her hair. "Short answer, $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is great. I've got to run now, but it was nice talking to you." Robin stands and smooths down her dress, an action that alerts both her bodyguard and a few of her nearby admirers. As she heads out of the coffee shop, a rush of people try and follow after her, but her bodyguard holds them back. Robin gets away from the shop just in time, as the paparazzi arrive to take pictures of her. You couldn't hear what they were saying to each other, but they were obviously upset that they missed her. Your roommate appears at your side after the commotion is over and while you wait for the crowds to die down again, fill ${roommate_him_her} in on what went on. "Interesting. Glad she answered your question, Roomie. Ready to head out?" You nod and follow after ${roommate_him_her}, ready to see where the day would take you next. *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"What went wrong in your relationship? I want to make sure whatever it is doesn't hinder ours when I win." *set robin %-5 *set bold %+10 Robin smirks and rests her hands on the coffee table the two of you are sharing. "You're bold. I like that," she begins, taking a brief moment to inspect her manicured nails before looking at you again. "I implore you to read the story in [i] Odessa Today [/i] if you haven't. That's plenty helpful. But just in case you haven't, or don't want to, I'll say this." The supermodel gives you a look that could chill glass. "I admire your confidence, but there's a lot of people in the Games. Don't assume you're a shoo-in." Robin stands and turns to walk away, but freezes mid-step. She turns to you one more time with another smirk. "Where are my manners? Let me give you some actual advice," Robin says. "$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is very special and very powerful. Don't mistake ${royal_his_her_their} usual personality as ${royal_his_her_their} only one. Godspeed." Before you could respond, Robin is out the door, a mob of her fans trying to chase her down. Your roommate appears at your side after the commotion is over and you quickly fill ${roommate_him_her} in on what went on. "Wow, Robin, rude? No way! But, you don't get to where she is today by being super nice," $!{roommate_name} says with a shrug of ${roommate_his_her} shoulders. "Ready to head out?" You nod and follow after ${roommate_him_her}, ready to see where the day would take you next. *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Could you give me some insight into $!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name}? I met ${royal_him_her_them} before but...you know ${royal_him_her_them} better than I ever could." *set robin %+10 Robin sighs and stops playing with her ring, giving you her full attention. "$!{royal_title} $!{royal_first_name} is a lovely individual. We didn't work out but that doesn't mean it can't work out for somebody else." Robin runs a hand through her hair before smiling a bit. "$!{royal_title} $!!{royal_first_name} is not who they appear to be. There's so much underneath the surface that I hope you get to see. I've got to run now, but it was nice talking to you." Robin stands and smooths down her dress, an action that alerts both her bodyguard and a few of her nearby admirers. As she heads out of the coffee shop, a rush of people try and follow after her, but her bodyguard holds them back. The model gives you one final smile before disappearing. Your roommate appears at your side after the commotion is over and while you wait for the crowds to die down again, you fill ${roommate_him_her} in on what went on. "More than meets the eye, huh? Well, glad she answered your question, Roomie. Ready to head out?" You nod and follow after ${roommate_him_her}, ready to see where the day would take you next. *goto_scene chp2_thecity #Strangely...jealous. The $!{royal_title} is nowhere close to mine, yet I can't help but to be jealous that Robin has had ${royal_him_her_them} before me. "Sure," you answer your roommate, continuing to drink your drink. Your eyes rake over Robin's form, noticing how her tan dress was absolutely curve fitting. She had on high heels, which made her even taller than she was naturally. Her nails are done and upon further inspection, she seems to be wearing a bit of makeup, but nothing too extravagant. "Okay, screw it. I'm going to go over there and talk to her," $!{roommate_name} says, moving towards the model a bit before chickening out and coming back towards you. "Wait, wait, $!{player_first_name}, come over with me. Please? What if I make a fool or myself?" You shake your head. "$!{roommate_name}, you'll be fine, but I'll still walk over with you, alright?" $!{roommate_name} is practically buzzing with excitement as the two of you approach Robin. After another fan happily bounces away with a picture, $!{roommate_name} walks up with huge smile. "H-Hi Robin, do you mind if we take a picture together?" Your roommate asks, looking uncharacteristically nervous. You'd find it amusing if you weren't absolutely envious of Robin right in front of you. Once the model agrees, $!{roommate_name} all but shoves ${roommate_his_her} phone towards you and rushes to pose by the model. You take the photo and hesitate a bit after you hand $!{roommate_name}'s phone back to $!{roommate_him_her}. "I'm sure you want one, right?" Robin asks, smiling a bit. *fake_choice #"Ew, no," I say before I could help myself. *set robin %-10 *set bold %+5 *set snarky %+10 *set rude +1 Robin blinks, smile vanishing instantly. She seems caught off-guard by your response. "Wow. Well, you don't-" She pauses, probably remembering how many cameras were recording her at the moment, and instead pushes a smile to her face. "Alright. Have a good day. Nice meeting you, $!{roommate_name}," she says instead, glancing between the two of you one more time before heading out. You watch a rush of people try and follow after her, but her bodyguard holds them back. Robin gets away from the shop just in time, as the paparazzi arrive to take pictures of her. You couldn't hear what they were saying to each other, but they were obviously upset that they missed her. $!{roommate_name} whistles lowly, glancing out the window before looking back at you. "Well, Robin will certainly remember you for that. It's probably rare she gets told no." You shrug and finish the rest of your drink, getting up to throw your cup away once you've done so. "I mean, I didn't want a picture. I'm sure she's been told that before. Anyways, let's get going," you say and after a few more sips, your roommate gets up to join you to leave. "Whatever, we probably won't even see her again," $!{roommate_name} says with a shrug of ${roommate_his_her} shoulders as the two of you exit the coffee shop. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"No, thank you though," I reply with a strained smile. *set robin %-5 *set formal %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set charming +1 Robin watches you for a moment and you worry that she can see through your strained smile, but eventually she smiles widely and messes with her hair again. "Well, alright. Have a good day," she says to the two of you, slipping back out the front door as quickly as she arrived. A few people try to follow after her, but Robin's bodyguard holds them back with ease. After she's gone, you turn to your roommate who seems a bit amused. "Roomie, that had to be one of the most awkward smiles I've ever seen on you," $!{roommate_name} says as ${roommate_he_she} finishes ${roommate_his_her} drink. "It was a completely normal smile," you say with a scoff, finishing your own drink as well. "Right. How about we get going before any more celebrities stop by? This place is crowded enough," $!{roommate_name} suggests and you nod, eager to leave. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Wow, I'm honored, but I'm fine. Thank you," I answer, rather surprised at how calm I was being. *set robin %+5 *set charisma %+5 *set friendly %+5 *set formal %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set charming +1 Robin grins, showing off a pearly white smile. "Alright! Well, if you ever want a picture or something in the future, if we meet again, I'd be happy to take a picture with you," she says, running a hand through her hair before sighing. "Gotta go. Have a great day." You and $!{roommate_name} watch Robin leave, her bodyguard easily stopping the few people that wanted to chase after her. Once the supermodel is gone, the coffee shop returns to normal. "Wow, and I thought you'd blow up or something," $!{roommate_name} says with a raised eyebrow. "Same here. Huh," you reply, finishing up your drink before getting up to throw it away. You really don't see any other reason to still be here, so you turn to face your roommate. "Ready to go? Might be a few things left on our list that we haven't done," you say and $!{roommate_name} nods. "Yeah, let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Sure," I answer, only because it would be rude to decline. Not that I actually want to take a picture with her. *set robin %+5 *set cunning %+5 *set aloof +1 "Great!" Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone again. You smile as well, very relieved once the whole ordeal is over and the supermodel leaves, a flurry of fans racing after her. Or at least attempting to. Robin's bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Ugh, these pictures came out amazing," $!{roommate_he_she} sighs, as if ${roommate_he_she} were in a dream. You watch $!{roommate_name} swipe back and forth between both of the photos over and over again before you can't take it anymore "Alright, alright. Let's get out of here. I'm sure there's probably something left on our list," you say and $!{roommate_name} nods in agreement. "Ready when you are!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Definitely." I could always use this picture for bargaining or something later. *set robin %+5 *set cunning %+5 *set robinpicture "yes" "Great!" Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone again. You smile as well, very relieved once the whole ordeal is over and the supermodel leaves, a flurry of fans racing after her. Or at least attempting to. Robin's bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "The pictures came out amazing," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the two photos. You glance across the table at $!{roommate_name}'s phone, humming in agreement. "Yeah, I'll say. How about we get out of here before any more celebrities show up, though?" You ask before you finish up your drink. "Agreed," $!{roommate_name} says. "I think if I meet one more celebrity, I'll pass out!" "Uh-huh, just make sure you send that picture to me before you forget," you remind with a chuckle. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Yes. Thanks!" Sure, I'm not her biggest fan or anything, but I'd be dumb to pass up the opportunity to take a picture with a celebrity. *set robin %+5 "Great!" Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone again. You smile as well, very relieved once the whole ordeal is over and the supermodel leaves, a flurry of fans racing after her. Or at least attempting to. Robin's bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "At least the pictures came out cute," $!{roommate_he_she} says eventually and you watch ${roommate_him_her} swipe back and forth between the two photos. You chuckle, finishing up your drink before throwing it away into a nearby trash can. "Yeah, let's get out of here before anymore celebrities show up." "Agreed," $!{roommate_name} says. "I think if I meet one more celebrity, I'll pass out! Oh! Don't worry, $!{player_first_name}, I'll send this to you as quick as I can." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #Alright. Don't feel anything for her either way. *set aloof +1 *set friendly %-5 *set bold %-5 *set formal %-5 Your eyes rake over Robin's form, noticing how her tan dress was absolutely curve fitting. She was making small talk with a fan while waiting on her drink, smiling and giggling at what they were saying. She had on high heels, which made her even taller than she was naturally. Her nails are done and upon further inspection, she seems to be wearing a bit of makeup, but nothing too extravagant. Eventually the fan walks away with a smile on their face so wide, you're afraid their face is going to split in two. Your roommate decides to take the opportunity to go and talk to her while nobody else is around. "C'mon, $!{player_first_name}. Come with me. Please?" *fake_choice #"Ew, no," I say before I could help myself. "I could care less about a model." *set rude +1 *set roommate %-5 *set bold %+5 *set snarky %+5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You make a point to find anything else to look at and soon enough, your roommate joins you at your side again. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Nah. You go have fun," I say, glancing over at the model before looking away. *set shy +1 *set roommate %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set formal %-5 *set bold %-5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You catch her eyes before looking away again and you swear you hear Robin laugh softly. Eventually, $!{roommate_name} comes back over, still grinning. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Sure," I answer, only because it would be rude to decline. Not that I actually want to take a picture with her. *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set robin %+5 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. "Hm, if you say so," you reply and finish up your drink, looking around for the trash can. "I do say so! Now, let's get out of here before anymore celebrities show up. I think I'll pass out if another one comes in!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Definitely." I could always use this picture for bargaining or something later. *set cunning %+5 *set roommate %+5 *set robin %+5 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Yes. Thanks!" Sure, I'm not her biggest fan or anything, but I'd be dumb to pass up the opportunity to take a picture with a celebrity. *set robin %+5 *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %+5 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #Starstruck, honestly. I've never seen a celebrity like her. You can't stop staring at Robin. The couple of pictures that you've seen of her in magazines really didn't do her justice. She seemed radiant and her outfit and makeup only helped to amplify it. She waits patiently for her drink, chatting with the occasional fan, but otherwise keeps to herself. Your roommate decides this is the perfect opportunity to try and go talk to her. "Wait, $!{player_first_name}, could you come with me? What if I freak out? Ramble? Say a bad joke?" *fake_choice #"Ew, no," I say before I could help myself. "I could care less about a model." *set rude +1 *set roommate %-5 *set bold %+5 *set snarky %+5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You make a point to find anything else to look at and soon enough, your roommate joins you at your side again. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"You'll be fine, $!{roommate_name}. I'll hang back, though," I say, glancing over at the model before looking away. *set shy +1 *set roommate %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set formal %-5 *set bold %-5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You catch her eyes before looking away again and you swear you hear Robin laugh softly. Eventually, $!{roommate_name} comes back over, still grinning. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Sure," I reply. I don't really want a picture with Robin, but I want to make sure $!{roommate_name} doesn't do anything crazy. *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %-5 *set robin %+5 *set aloof +1 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. "Hm, if you say so," you reply and finish up your drink, looking around for the trash can. "I do say so! Now, let's get out of here before anymore celebrities show up. I think I'll pass out if another one comes in!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Definitely." If I meet and take a picture with her, I could use it later if I need to. *set roommate %+5 *set robin %+5 *set cunning %+5 *set robinpicture "yes" "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Yeah, of course!" Sure, I'm not her biggest fan or anything, but I'd be dumb to pass up the opportunity to take a picture with a celebrity. *set robin %+5 *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %+5 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #Annoyed. I was trying to enjoy time with my roommate, not listen to people screaming over a model. *set snarky %+5 You wonder if it would be rude to run out and buy earplugs before returning to the coffee shop. You had no idea that voices could go that high, but you must admit that Robin handles the crowds with ease. She's joking with some people and hugging others. In fact, she's spending so much time with people, the Steamy Bean baristas keep remaking her drink. You groan and make a point of slurping your drink rather loudly, anything to get the screams out of your head. Finally, things quiet down a bit and your roommate decides to take this opportunity to approach the model as well. "Roomie, come with me. Please? What if I make a fool of myself or something?" *fake_choice #"Ew, no," I say before I could help myself. "I could care less about a model." *set rude +1 *set roommate %-5 *set bold %+5 *set snarky %+5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You make a point to find anything else to look at and soon enough, your roommate joins you at your side again. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"You'll be fine, $!{roommate_name}. I'll hang back, though," I say, glancing over at the model before looking away. *set shy +1 *set roommate %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set formal %-5 *set bold %-5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You catch her eyes before looking away again and you swear you hear Robin laugh softly. Eventually, $!{roommate_name} comes back over, still grinning. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Sure," I reply. I don't really want a picture or anything with Robin, but I want to make sure $!{roommate_name} doesn't do anything crazy. *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %-5 *set robin %+5 *set aloof +1 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. "Hm, if you say so," you reply and finish up your drink, looking around for the trash can. "I do say so! Now, let's get out of here before anymore celebrities show up. I think I'll pass out if another one comes in!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Definitely." If I meet and take a picture with her, I could use it later if I need to. *set roommate %+5 *set robin %+5 *set cunning %+5 *set robinpicture "yes" "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Yeah, of course!" Sure, I'm not her biggest fan or anything, but I'd be dumb to pass up the opportunity to take a picture with a celebrity. *set robin %+5 *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %+5 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #Curious. What the hell is her skincare routine? I'm pretty sure she isn't even wearing makeup. "Okay, she has to be using the most expensive skin care products in the country. Seriously," you whisper over to your roommate. $!{roommate_name} nods, daring a glance over at her before whispering back. "She uses this vegan line that costs like more than I'll ever make at Lux Brew." You two sigh and continue working on your drinks until your roommate suddenly jumps out of ${roommate_his_her} seat. "I'm going to get a picture with her. I can't stand it anymore. You want to come?" *fake_choice #"Ew, no," I say before I could help myself. "I could care less about a model." *set rude +1 *set roommate %-5 *set bold %+5 *set snarky %+5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You make a point to find anything else to look at and soon enough, your roommate joins you at your side again. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"You'll be fine, $!{roommate_name}. I'll hang back, though," I say, glancing over at the model before looking away. *set shy +1 *set roommate %+5 *set snarky %-5 *set formal %-5 *set bold %-5 *set robin %-5 $!{roommate_name} pouts briefly but approaches Robin alone, giggling and smiling at the model. Robin pays close attention to $!{roommate_name}, not even taking her eyes off of ${roommate_him_her} when her drink was finished. After taking a photo with $!{roommate_name}, she glances over at you, wondering if you were going to walk over as well. You catch her eyes before looking away again and you swear you hear Robin laugh softly. Eventually, $!{roommate_name} comes back over, still grinning. "Ready? We should get going if we want to keep looking around the city before it gets too late." You nod in agreement before standing up and throwing away your cup. "Let's get out of here." *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Sure," I reply. I don't really want a picture or anything with Robin, but I want to make sure $!{roommate_name} doesn't do anything crazy. *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %-5 *set robin %+5 *set aloof +1 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. "Hm, if you say so," you reply and finish up your drink, looking around for the trash can. "I do say so! Now, let's get out of here before anymore celebrities show up. I think I'll pass out if another one comes in!" *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Definitely." If I meet and take a picture with her, I could use it later if I need to. *set roommate %+5 *set robin %+5 *set cunning %+5 *set robinpicture "yes" "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Yeah, of course!" Sure, I'm not her biggest fan or anything, but I'd be dumb to pass up the opportunity to take a picture with a celebrity. *set robin %+5 *set roommate %+5 *set friendly %+5 "Great!" $!{roommate_name} exclaims, all but bouncing over to Robin. You follow at a distance, allowing your roommate to gush about her style and beauty as privately as ${roommate_he_she} could. It's stuff Robin's probably heard a million times, but she still listens to $!{roommate_name} like she's never heard it before. Finally, $!{roommate_name} stops talking and the two of them take a few pictures before it's your turn. Robin wraps an arm around your waist and smiles for the camera, which happens to be your roommate's cell phone. You smile a bit and after Robin hands $!{roommate_name} ${roommate_his_her} phone back, she says goodbye and heads for the exit. Fans attempt to follow after Robin, but her bodyguard holds them off just long enough for her to get back into her limo and speed off. You and $!{roommate_name} watch from inside of the coffee shop until the limo is out of sight. "Well, the pictures totally came out cute. Both yours and mine," $!{roommate_he_she} says, swiping back and forth between the photos. You look across the table at the photos on your roommate's phone and nod in agreement. The two of you did look great. After flipping through the photos a couple of more times, $!{roommate_name} puts ${roommate_his_her} phone away. "Hmm, now where to?" $!{roommate_name} muses. *page_break *goto_scene chp2_thecity #"Sure, I'll go talk to him." *goto_scene lyoncoffee