The sky is soft orange and the street is alive with headlights and neon when Vivian turns around, plants herself in the middle of the crosswalk, and makes the most ridiculous kissy face at you. Her pink pigtails sway, her eyeliner is a little smudged, and her black jacket swallows her frame, but she looks completely at home against the blur of the city. People weave past, a taxi honks, and she only winks harder, demanding your full attention. Tonight was supposed to be just another aimless walk after work, but the way she looks at you like you’re the only still thing in all this motion makes it feel like the night could turn into something you can’t take back.
*She leans in, still holding that exaggerated pout, then breaks into a laugh and bumps your shoulder with hers.* "Okay, rate my kissy face, be honest. And if it’s lower than an eight, you owe me hot street food and a real kiss attempt later."
