Behind The Mask

Whatever you do, I'll do it too
Show me everything and tell me how
It all means something
And yet nothing to me

So Lincoln was right, he had to get his shit together. Which is why Bellamy had decided to see his sister and make up for lost time. Everyone had been excited to see him as they all caught Bellamy up on everything as he did the same. After lots of laughter and fun he invited all the girls to an elegant gala being held for veterans and current soldiers. It was a fundraiser and of course he asked Clarke to be his date. Reluctantly they all decided to go as Clarke demanded a group date.

Lucky for Bellamy all he had to do was wear his uniform but the girls struggled to find the right outfit. After two hours of preparing Bellamy and his two dates left for the function. Raven opted out last minute due to feeling sick but Octavia and Clarke were more than excited. It was a wonderful opportunity for Octavia to meet some politicians and network, which she did as soon as they walked through the door.

Bellamy found them a table but quickly left as he encountered a few friends. Asking Clarke to come, she declined and decided to sit at the table not wanting to admit her feet were killing her. Why she choose to wear these stilettos was beyond her but if they didn’t make her calves look so damn good she would be more skeptical. Her dress was a nice dark green that she normally would be so opposed to but Octavia insisted.

Taking into view of the room there were so many soldiers dress in their uniforms some navy, some marines, and wow did she need to get her one. Anyone could admit that a person in uniform is a hundred times more sexy and badass. Scanning the room Clarke felt a lump in throat when she saw Lexa. What was she doing here? Lexa had made eye contact with her and gave a tight smile, returning back to the conversation she was in. They continued to share a few glances as Clarke could see she wanted to come over but people kept stopping her every chance she could.

“So much sexual tension.” Clarke turned to see Octavia sipping on her drink.
“There is no sexual tension between us.”
“I can feel the eye fucking from here.” Clarke almost choked on her drink with that comment.
“We've decided to just be friends.” Octavia once again hit Clarke in the back of her heard earning her a stern look.
“You are so stupid. I don't understand how you are going to be a doctor.”
“I'm not ready.”
“I know Finn was a jerk he cheated on you but I don’t Lexa is like that.”
“Lexa lied to me.” Octavia couldn't argue with that but she knew there could be something brewing between the two and it aggravated her that Clarke couldn't see it. She watched as the two girls again made eye contact. It was literal eye fucking, how could they not see it.
“If love were easy Clarke we all be married to the first person who dated but it’s not. I know you two have said you moved on but don’t hold this over her head and continue to be friends.” Octavia took it here cue to leave as she watched the mayor go by. She was totally going to take advantage of this.

It was true that after Clarke had come over they agreed to move on. They had texted every night but they hadn’t seen each other face to face since. As Octavia scurried away Lexa took it as her cue to walk over.

“Clarke.” Pulling her out of her thoughts she quickly stood up, not wanting to be rude.
“Lexa. What are you doing here?”
“Military family.” Clarke made an o shaped with her mouth completely forgetting Lexa’s background. “Also someone has to pay for this function.”
“You sponsor this?”
“Yes.”
“Didn’t know you did charity.”
“It’s always good to give back. Come dance with me.” Lexa held out her hand for the girl and smiled as she said “friend.”
“You know how I feel about it.”
“Trust me.” Clarke couldn’t help but give in to curiosity. Looking at the girl now she never noticed how truly stunning she was. Lexa wore a dark blue dress that covered one shoulder and slid down sliming on her body creating a pool of cloth beneath her feet.

“You know without your mask and business clothing on you really are beautiful Lexa.” Clarke whispered into her ear knowing she wouldn’t be able to hear her with the crowd. Though Clarke was behind her she knew she could feel Lexa trying to hold in the heat rising in her cheeks. She continued to lead them but away from the dance floor and out of the room.

“You missed the dance floor.”
“I wasn’t aiming for it.” Both girls were out of the room now and walking up the stairs still fingers interlocked.

“Remember what you told me about dancing?”
Clarke smirked immediately remembering when she revealed she would never dance at public events sober because she sucked so bad.
“A worker of mine is getting married here in a few days and the room is already set up. Thought we could use it for a little.” Lexa stated with a smile. Clarke looked at her questioningly but felt her jaw drop as the double doors opened. The room was stunning as the ceiling above the dance floor was covered in string light and the room filled with candles, lots of it.
“I added the candles.” Lexa grinned from behind.
“I know what I am getting you for your birthday.” Clarke laughed as she entered the room now leading. Lexa followed behind but look towards the DJ booth to play some music.
“I have no idea what songs are on here but it says slow songs.” Lexa called out and Clarke only nodded giving her the thumbs up. Of course a slow song began to play and Lexa made her way back to the dance floor where Clarke stood. It took everything inside her to not let the little girl inside of her come out and jump in excitement.

Lexa reached out her hand and Clarke placed her own in it as she moved them closer.
“Just step left back and sideways.” Clarke attempted to move but quickly stumbled.
“I told you two left feet.” Clarke groaned as Lexa helped her steady.
“You are thinking too hard.” Frustration got stronger but Lexa never backed away from a challenge. It took a few more tries before Clarke was actually moving around swiftly but slowly.

Clarke now rested her head on Lexa's shoulder as she swayed them back and forth. She controlled their pace very slow so Clarke wouldn’t have to think about it too much.
“I didn’t know friends did this.”
“I can be your friend and still win your heart over.” Clarke smiled at her confidence secretly knowing she wouldn’t have to do much.

Lexa had been really fucked up the last few days but after seeing Clarke and lots of yelling from Anya she was getting her shit together. The company was now back on track as she took more control and fixed issues. There were times where she was allowed to be fucked up with no questions asked. She never had it easy but she had to bounce back some time and she making her way. Maybe Clarke isn't the love of her life but she gave her hope and that's what she needed.

The song surprisingly changed into a Spanish one. It happened to be one of of Lexa's favorite as she softly sang along keeping the same movements.
“Y el corazón no tiene cara y te prometo que lo nuestro nunca va a terminar y el amor vive en el alma.”

Clarke looked up in shock when she realized Lexa was singing in Spanish.
“You speak Spanish?” Lexa laughed as she spun the girl away, swayed her hips, and pulled her back to her.
“And dance it too.” It was fucking sexy and Clarke was trying to make sure her legs didn't give out.
“I speak 7 different languages.” Lexa continued.
“Why?”
“I'd like to appropriately communicate with investors, workers, and all that who are from different countries. It makes my business more effective and opens me up to new cultures.”
“I didn't know that.”
“There is still a lot you don't know about me Clarke. Now, let me teach you how to dance this song.”

Lexa pulled away to now have the girl stand in front. She step to the side twice then popped the opposite hip then did the same thing on the other side.
“It's called bachata.” Clarke nodding her ahead attempted to imitate the girl but was struggling. Lexa put her hands on Clarke's hips to help lead the movement.
“One. Two. Three. One. Two. Three.” Lexa repeated as Clarke was finally getting the rhythm down. Popping her hip up at three was difficult especially if you weren't good with yours hips.
“You got it!” Clarke smiled brightly not trying to change her rhythm. So Lexa grabbed her hand and pulled her closer following the same beat.
“You’re a natural Clarke.” Clarke looked down now feeling the tables turned on her. She didn't want admit how turned on she was by the sexy dance. She knew it was too as Lexa had placed her leg in between her pulling her closer with almost no space between them.
“What is he saying?”
“And the heart has no face and I promise you that our thing is never going to end and love lives in the soul.”
“It sounds sexier and romantic in Spanish.”
“Agreed.”

They continued to dance letting the song fade out and others take its place. Silence mostly rested between the two as it was all they really needed. When the Celine Dion version of Beauty and the Beast began to play. Clarke couldn’t contain her laugh as Lexa playfully imitated the role of Beast stepping back and bowing in front of her.

“Who knew Lexa Woods is a huge dork.” Clarke joked as they began to waltz around the room at a faster pace now that Clarke had gotten the hang of it.
“I think what you meant to say was how diverse I truly am.” The smile on Clarke’s face never left as she danced around the room realizing how talented Lexa truly was in dancing. She could safely assume she had taken some sort of dance classes seeing how much the girl loved to learn.

“Tale as old as time. Song as old as rhyme.” Clarke sang out this time with another spin. Lexa brought her closer than before as they faces were just barely touching.
“You sing too.” Lexa breathe out. She licked her lips as Clarke pressed their foreheads together still slowly moving. The lyrics dimmed as the piano took over.
“We shouldn’t do this Lexa.”
“We shouldn’t have done any of this.”
“Then why did we?”
“I know why. I’m just waiting for you to know.” Clarke let the words sink in trying to understand what she had meant by it. How could she know but not her? “I-”

“Sh, don’t ruin the moment.” So Clarke didn’t, laying her head back on her chest curling up against it allowing Lexa to place her chin on top.

She was too happy at the moment for it to be taken away from her. There was a contentedness in both girls as everything seemed to fall into place. It was only them two in the room but even if there were more everything was blocked out of their minds. Nothing else mattered for those few seconds. It didn’t matter what they were to each other or what happened in the past between them. Lexa wasn’t worried about her business and Clarke wasn’t worrying about her final exam coming up. They were living in the present something they both failed to do so many times. However, Clarke would have to wonder soon what Lexa implied by her words.

“You knew I was coming to the event.” Clarke whispered against her chest. She could hear the rhythmic thump of Lexa’s heartbeat. With certainty she knew she could fall asleep to that lullaby.
“Call it a lucky guess.” Clarke didn’t need to look to know Lexa was now smirking as she hummed an ‘I knew it.’
“You know one day we are going to have to tell each other those guesses.”
“Today isn’t that day.”

They stayed there for two more songs when they decided it was best to rejoin the party. As they headed down stairs Lexa grabbed Clarke by her arm before entering the main room.
“What are you doing Sunday?”
“We are friends Lexa, no dates.” Clarke gave her a jokingly pointed look.
“It’s not, I just want to show you something.”
“Lex-”
“I’ll tell you why I wanted your business.” Hoping to sway her in the right direction. Immediately Clarke’s eyebrows raised removing the wary look off her face. She gave her a kiss on the cheek confirming her answer. Lexa watched as the girl strode back into the room and smiled at her victory.

Before even getting a chance to move to her table, Clarke was quickly pulled by Bellamy as he wanted to introduce her to someone.
“Hi Clarke Griffin.” She held out her hand and the man happily shook it responding, “Dr. Michaels, Medical Service Corps Officer.
“It’s nice to meet you.” She smiled as she felt Bellamy wrap an arm around her waist. She kept her arms in front of her feeling suddenly nervous at the mention of doctor.
“You’re mother is Dr.Abby Griffin, correct?” Clarke smiled giving a firm nod.
“I used to go to school with her many years ago. She is a lovely woman.”
“Yes, she actually just got back from doing service abroad. She is very happy.”
“Oh wonderful, that's pleasant to hear she is doing great. Well your friend here Bellamy told me you were looking for a job in the medical field.”
“Yes, I am interested in one.”
“You’ll be finished with your required courses this semester and I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity for you to work at a base and get some experience. I know you have not done your residency yet but afterwards you’ll get into almost any program and will be much more ahead than the rest. I know you come from a family of hard work having met your mother. So I am positive in this decision.”

Clarke stood frozen and in complete shock. It was such a wonderful opportunity and something awesome to put on her resume. She was already so behind but this could be a big move for her.
“I think she is interested.” Bellamy spoke up for her when she didn’t respond. The group surrounding them began to laugh as Clarke feverishly nodded her head.
“Wonderful. Here is my contact card. Training begins very soon in Houston.”
“As in Texas?”
“Yes. So start packing. I have to run but it was lovely meeting you Miss.Griffin. Take good care of her she is a special woman.” He pointed at Bellamy as he left the two together.

Clarke spun around giving Bellamy a hug. “Thank you.” She mumbled he smiled happily knowing he was working his way back to her good side.

-----
Come with me now to see my world
Where there's beauty beyond your dreams
Can you feel the things I feel
Right now, with you
Take my hand
There's a world I need to know

Sunday evening rolled around and Clarke had been texting Lexa all day. She had no idea what to wear or where they were going. Failing she could not get the girl to reveal anything but to only wear casual clothing.

Grunting Clarke picked out an outfit and headed downstairs upon Lexa’s text. Of course there was a town car waiting outside. Lexa did nothing half ass. Opening the door she hopped in with a smirking Lexa inside.

“Just because the windows are tinted doesn’t mean I can’t see you roll your eyes.” Clarke did roll her eyes at the ridiculous and then did it again to show her that she didn’t really care. Lexa uncrossed her legs and reached over to hand Clarke flowers.
“This isn’t a date Lexa.”
“Oh I know. You told me you liked calla lilys so I’m fixing up for that time I got you sunflowers.” Clarke admired the flowers not wanting to admit that she did love the gesture.

“So how don’t I know you aren’t going to take me to the woods and kill me off so you can finally have my building.”
“If I do recall correctly you did tell me you were going to give me the building.”
“I told Heda, not Lexa.”
“Same person Griffin.”

Admittedly she did still have a hard time wrapping her head around Heda and Lexa being the same person. She couldn’t understand how Lexa still wanted to be with her considering the fact almost every night she ranted on to Heda about how much she hated her. They arrived at the building and Clarke looked at Lexa warily unsure where they were.

“An art gallery.” Lexa simply stated as they walked up the stairs.
“An art gallery? Do you have a secret love for art Lexa?” The girl smiled as she looked towards her. She knew eventually she would have to tell the girl everything but she wanted to enjoy the moment while she can. It was a pretty big exhibition and they decided to take their time trying to critique as much as they could. To Clarke’s surprise the girl knew a lot more than she had expected even. Lexa would comment on structurally how it was built to even the medium used. Conversation had flown easily but Clarke wanted to get down to the meat so she finally pose the question that had been dancing her mind since they got here.

“Why did you want my business.” Lexa looked at her finally giving in to the blue eyes.
“Why don’t we sit?” Lexa laced her fingers with Clarke leading her through the crowd to a few tables. Both took a seat as she waited patiently for Lexa to speak.

“A few months ago I decided it was time to see my foster family and catch up. I hadn’t seen much of them since the business took off. One of the children, who was just a baby when I was there, began to talk and he told me of a box with my name on it. So when my foster parents left for the day I decided to check it out. Apparently a few of my belongings from birth parents were there, mostly paperwork. I found a few letters from my grandmother. Allegedly she had a secret lover in America who owned a bakery shop which happened to be here in New York. I found the address and tried to buy that building but you were stubborn. I couldn’t let it go then because I kind of got competitive and you were a challenge for me, one I couldn’t turn down.”

Clarke couldn’t stop laughing when puzzles began to connect now in her head.
“What’s so funny?” Lexa got more defensive as she watched Clarke cling to her stomach. Groaning in frustration she crossed her arms waiting for the girl to finish. When she finally did Lexa raised an eyebrow.

“That lover was my grandpa.”
“WHAT?” Lexa almost had a heart-attack right then and there.
“Yeah, my grandparents owned that bakery it’s been passed down for generations which is partly why I didn’t want to sell it. My grandma told me once he had an affair but it didn’t work out.”
“That’s weird, our grandparents were lovers.” At the realization both girls shook their body trying to throw away the image out of their head. The coincidence was one of amusement for both girls and understanding now why the building was so important to each of them. Lexa wanted some connection to her birth family and part of it was here in New York. The irony was one they would remember for a while and glad they never got together as they wouldn’t be here together now. It was funny how the universe works.

“So why did you bring me here?”
“Lets finish the gallery.” Both girls got up and continue the walk around. Stopping at the second to last piece Lexa finally answered her question.

“I don’t want your building, Clarke.” Clarke turned from the painting as she raised an eyebrow in confusion. “I know you wanted to give me the building as you now pursued your career in medicine.”
“I’m glad I’m giving it to you. I know what it means to you now.” Shrugging her shoulders she knew it would be in good hands now.
“I don’t want it.”
“I don’t understand.”
“Look at this painting. Tell me about it.” Confused Clarke turned towards the painting starting to explain the details and the meaning.
“I would have never thought to use watercolor paintings here but it is intriguing with just a few strokes capture the melting wax on the candle is incredible. You can’t even see his face but you somehow sympathize with him feeling the agony and pain he is surrounded in. Look at this line right here. They managed to capture the light bouncing off his chair that makes him radiate clearly making him the center of attention despite how far back he is in the painting. And-”
“Clarke.” Clarke froze when Lexa had cut her off. She had been rambling on and on about this painting she probably didn’t even realize that Lexa didn’t need all that information.
“I’m so sorry it’s just I get carried away-” Lexa pressed her finger to Clarke’s lip demanding quiet.
“How can you give up painting when you are this passionate about it Clarke? I know you want to help people and yeah medicine can do that. I don’t doubt your skills one bit but I think your heart is in art.”
“Lexa.”
“No hear me out. I saw your paintings in your art gallery. I saw the painting you made of the girl in the rain. You are so talented I have never related to something so strongly in my entire life. Placing that mask over the face depicted how much the girl hides her feelings though her eyes were swollen red. You somehow managed to depict so much emotion that when I looked at that painting I finally felt someone understood me.”

Clarke now took a step closer feeling how much emotion Lexa was trying to express, it was very endearing. “That’s very sweet of you to say but art is not what I want to do anymore.”

“Yes it is Clarke. Art is everything for you. You can still help people with your art. They won’t feel alone anymore.”
“You don’t understand.”
“I do understand Clarke. I know you and this isn’t what you really want. Imagine what your father would say. I know he knows how much you love art and don’t really want this.” Clarke now felt a switch in her go off with that mention.
“You don’t know me Lexa.”
“Clarke.”
“No you listen now. We have a had a few wonderful moments together but that does not constitute you to insinuate that you know me or my father.”
“Clarke I didn’t mean to.” Clarke took two steps back turning her back on the woman and walking away before stating, “I appreciate what you are doing Lexa but you don’t know what you are talking about. We are just friends, get it through your head.”

Clarke left leaving a frustrated Lexa surrounded by all the paintings she claimed can help people. Well if they could talk Lexa would beg them to help her right now because she couldn’t wrap her head around everything that just happened.
------

“I’ve never been a fan of Lexa but this post Heda Lexa is really likable.” Raven argued trying to catch the rice that fell from her chopsticks. The girls were all too tired from work to actually cook so Raven had gotten them all Chinese food. A few days had passed and Lexa had decided to give Clarke some time to cool down.

“I still can’t believe your grandparents got it on.” Clarke had just revealed to them why Lexa wanted the business so badly and the girls had been shocked with the news just as she was. Octavia had laughed for a solid five minutes while Raven contemplated about calling Abby to tell her knowing how much of a kick she would get out of it.

“You should talk to her. It can’t end like this.”
“She’s not my girlfriend.”

Octavia happily chewing her chicken wings put her two sense in as well. “Look I know you are pissed and all but she was just trying to help.”

“I don’t know.”
“You just can’t let go of her lying. That’s the problem here.” Raven fumbled with her chopsticks trying to pick up her piece of beef. Octavia leaned over for the fourth time to help her hold her chopsticks. The girls had spent months trying to teach Raven how to use chopsticks but she wasn’t really good at it.
“If this is about Bellamy. Then honey you need to choose.”
“Bellamy is safe he knows me already.”
“But does he give you a bubbly feeling?” Octavia pointed out handing a fork to Raven giving up now.

He was a good guy and always meant well but there was something safe about him. She didn’t have to go through all that getting to know you phase. They could just be and that was that. There was no sorting through emotions or anything, it was just I like you let’s date. Maybe it was Bellamy that was holding her back. Raven stood up now heading to window after hearing an old song she recalled was named, In Your Eyes.

“Oh my fucking god.” Octavia jumped first looking to see what Raven had spotted.
“NO!” Octavia now had her hand over mouth trying to contain all her emotions in.
“Clarke you need to see this now!” Rolling her eyes, Clarke finally got up to see what all the commotion was. Her friends could exaggerate but this time they could not even put into words what they saw.

Clarke moved to the center of the window to find Lexa standing there with a boombox over head. Instantly, her mouth fell to the floor as she watch Lexa turn down the volume to speak.
“That's the thing about friendship Clarke. You are supposed to get the know the person. For example my favorite color is blue, like your eyes.”

Fuck, she hated when Lexa used her own words against her. She recalled the night she first met Heda who was scared to open up. Clarke had promised her it would be worth it and now Lexa was doing the convincing.
“You’re crazy.” Clarke shouted from above as Raven awed behind her.
“This is fucking adorable.” Octavia whispered behind her other ear.
“Your favorite color is green. You already have a bucket list and on the top is sky diving. You are allergic to shellfish. You clap your two fingers together when you are nervous. I’m standing out here with a boombox because I know you like 80s movies. Your favorite one is ‘Say Anything’ but you won’t admit it to anyone because you are afraid of how corny and cheesy it is and how people will perceive you.”

“Damn I didn’t even know that.” Octavia whispered again as the two girls tried to peek over to see what Lexa was doing. They kept nudging each other as they continued for a better view.

“Lexa.”
“You are right I don’t know you. I don’t know what scares you. I don’t know about your past relationships. I don’t know what keeps you up at night. I don’t know if you have a tattoo or even like them.”
“Oh she does!” Raven called out from behind.
“All I’m saying is that, this is what friends do. They get to know each other and I want to know you Ms. Griffin.”
“Ah so you do know what agitates me.” Clarke called from above as she watched Lexa smirk, knowing the exact game she was playing. Sighing she stepped away from the window for a second to breath and Octavia and Raven took the opportunity to jump in.
“I’ll date you Lexa.” Raven called out first.
“Do you have a brother?” Lexa laughed to herself knowing Lincoln had not told her yet of their relationship. That was another story she couldn’t wait to tell.

“I’m going to buzz you in. Come up.” Clarke called out. Lexa relieved finally put the boombox down and headed up the stairs. She was nervous but relieved Clarke had not thrown her out or ignored her completely.

“Leave.” Clarke demanded as she shoved Octavia and Raven into another room.

“We wanna see her.” Giving them a stern look she crossed her as the girls groaned knowing she wouldn't budge.
“Yes mom.” Raven scoffed as she linked her arms with Octavia heading into another room.

“I figured you were the mother of the group.” Clarke turned around to find a smirking Lexa leaning against the doorframe with her boombox.

The girl was a complete dork and Clarke could confidently agree to that as she made her way through. It was becoming clear to Clarke she did nothing half ass. Almost every time they have met since she found out Lexa was Heda has been with a grand moment.

“I’m sorry the way I acted. It wasn’t cool of me.” Clarke admitted as she made her way closer to Lexa. She motioned for them to sit on the couch which they both did.
“Are we going to talk about you going back to art?”
“I know you mean well Lexa but right now my focus is in medicine. I played around too much with art. It's time I get serious.”
“Why can't you be serious with art?”
“Please can we let this go? I know I overreacted and you mean well but I've made my decision and its final.” Clarke was going to stand her ground and Lexa couldn't argue with that knowing how stubborn she was. So Clarke did over react but she was going to make up for it one day.
“If you are going to be this dorky when I overreact, maybe I should overreact more.” Clarke tried to relieve the tension that had built up.
“I am not a dork.”
Clarke giggled at the girl’s refusal to believe it. “No you just stood out my apartment reenacting the most classic love confession of movies.”
Scoffing Lexa would not concede to this claim as she had to uphold her badass image.
“Lexa Woods is a badass.”
“Whatever helps you sleep at night.”
“You are very rude to a girl who just brought you food.” Raising an eyebrow she watched as Lexa pulled a brown bag out of her bag. Opening the bag she pulled out a bagel. Clarke reached over to grab it but Lexa leant back.
“Give me the bagel.”
“What’s the magic word?” Lexa played knowing how to push Clarke’s buttons
“Give me the fucking bagel please.” Clarke said as she sat up straight with her arms cross. New York bagels were to die for and she knew how much Clarke really loved them.
“Ha not even close.”
“What! I said please.” Clarke leaned over again and Lexa leant back but this time Clarke didn’t pull away she kept going as Lexa continued to reach her arm further away. Lexa’s arm was longer than hers and Clarke could not reach it unless she literally climbed over her. Looking down Clarke realized how close she really was to Lexa now whose smile completely vanished. There was a hunger in her eyes and Clarke could not deny she felt the same. Those green eyes were at it again creating that feeling in Clarke’s stomach that made her stomach clench and want to tighten her legs. That kaleidoscope of green gave her a glimpse of the forest finding the irony now of the girl beneath her last name.

“Give me the bagel Lexa.” Clarke husked now as she visibly watched Lexa take a large gulp. If anything she was sure Clarke could see her sweating having never been this nervous. One more word and she was going to be pushed over the edge.

“If you are gonna eye-fuck get a room.” Clarke quickly jumped removing herself off Lexa as she watched Octavia prance into the room.Those were not the words Lexa wanted to hear right now, however she could not deny the embarrassment she was feeling.

“What are you doing out here? I thought I told you to stay inside.”
“Why so you two can finally fuck?” Octavia laughed grabbing the water out of the fridge knowing she was going to hold this against them for a while.
“Relax,” she continued, “I just came to get Lincoln he said he was here.” Just as she spoke there was a knock on the door. Swing the door open she stood on her tippy toes to kiss her boyfriend who happily responded.

“Why am I so single?” Raven groaned as she entered the living room now too.
“Hey, I’m single too.” Clarke argued from the couch. Her two roommates laughed at her naiveness.
“I give it a month.” Raven argued.
“Nah you should have been here two minutes ago Reyes they were on top of each other. I give it a week.” Octavia hummed from behind as she linked arms with Lincoln dragging him into the apartment.
“No, we weren't.” Both Clarke and Lexa said at the same time. Their intentions weren't to do anything but they couldn't deny what they were thinking either. Walking completely into the living room Lexa stood up straighter making eye contact with Lincoln. She nodded her head in acknowledgement as did he. They were actually more comfortable with each other than the roommates knew. Octavia dragged her man into her room as Clarke stood up motioning for Lexa to leave the room with her.

The two girls were outside of the apartment now in silence neither wanting to talk about what happened early.

“I should get going.” Lexa stated as she could feel her pulse blazing through the roof.
“Thank you for the food and for being a dork.” Clarke smiled earning her a wide grin from Lexa.
“Just keep that between me and you.” Lexa finally caved in.
“I’m not sure I can you saw Raven and Octavia.”
“Those two are trouble makers.”
“They are just doing their rightful friend duties.”
“And what are my rightful friend duties?” Lexa took a step forward putting the blonde on the spot.
“That's not fair.”
Taking another step closer she put more pressure on her, “What's not fair?”

Being this close was becoming too common for the two woman. They were constantly breathing down each other's neck. Octavia had been right, all they do is eye fuck but neither refused to be the one to cave in. Both were aware of what the other was trying to do as neither wanted to be the weak one too competitive and mighty to admit their feelings.

The door was swung open as Clarke stumbled back having used it for support since Lexa had backed her into a corner.
“Oh sorry didn't mean to interrupt.” Raven quickly shut the door back as the intense moment dissolved quickly. Clearing her throat Clarke finally found words to speak.
“Thank you for coming to fix things up Lexa. I appreciate it.” Giving a firm nod Lexa took it as her cue to leave knowing there was only friends could leave.
“Goodbye Clarke.”

-----

Things had been going great between the two girls as a few days passed now since they were in Clarke's apartment. They talked every night on the phone and text during the day as they both did their best to find that old groove they once had.

It was pretty windy today as Clarke stood outside of Lexa's building holding onto the two hot cups for warmth. A car pulled up to the building and Clarke stepped forward knowing right away who it was.

“What a nice surprise.” Lexa spoke as she made her way towards Clarke. The woman handed her out the cup in her hand and Lexa happily accepted. Sipping the coffee she immediately pulled back making a sour face.
“What? I thought you liked that coffee?”
“Clarke just because you like a hot macchiato half carmel, half mocha no whipped cream but extra foam and a extra shot of espresso with a dash of cinnamon doesn't mean I like it too.”

It then clicked with Clarke that she had handed the girl the wrong cup.
“Oh sorry.” They quickly changed cups as Lexa let a small giggle left from her lips. “Wow that was impressive that you knew my entire order.”
Lexa began to walk towards her building with Clarke by her side.
“I am a CEO of one of the largest corporation in the world. Coffee is no stranger to me.” As Lexa held the door opened for her they entered the building in the lobby where it was pretty empty beside Lincoln at the front desk.

Lexa motioned for Clarke to follow her upstairs but she didn't follow.
“I'm sorry Lex I have to run to class now. I just had to ask you something.”
“Was the coffee a bribery?”
“Of course don't flatter yourself too much now. Anyway there is a party next weekend, I want to know if you wanted to come.” Clarke smiled happily swaying back and forth from the balls of her feet to her tippy toes. “As friends.” She quickly added.

“Clarke I know we are just friends you don't have to say that every time you invite me somewhere. And yes I’ll love to.” Lexa smiled as Clarke placed a kiss on her cheek.

“Thank you Lex!”
“It’s Lexa!” Lexa called out as Clarke had spun and made her way out of the building. She added, “Bye Ms.Griffin,” just so she could have the upper hand on the blonde.

“You suck!” Clarke called out as she left the building heading to her three wonderful hours of med class.

Lexa watched her leave with a large smile on her face now.
“Good morning Lincoln. Anya.” Nodding her head she left the lobby to head to her office.

“Do you think we could pay Clarke to bring Lexa coffee every morning.” Lincoln proposed as he watched his boss happily walk into work. Anya only hummed in agreement as she watched the improvement in her little sister.

------
Every gesture, every move that she makes
Makes me feel like never before
Why do I have
This growing need to be beside her

The party had been in full motion for a while now and Lexa decided to arrive much later so it would be less awkward for her. As well she brought Anya along as she had never been to a social event like this. Clarke had told her it was casual but she had never been to one where didn’t have to dress up and be all elegant. Anya promised her it wouldn’t be bad but she knew it would be a night that would go down hill. She had never associated herself with people her own age.

From growing up with a very strict family and then falling straight into the business world, Lexa never had time to socialize with other people. In fact she wasn’t sure she would know how to. It was so easy with Clarke because she met her through business and can now only wonder if things would be as smooth if she hadn’t met her then.

Finally working up the nerves to enter the house, Lexa was immediately bombard with people dancing trying to work their way around. She turned around quickly to see Anya but she was already out of her view. Fuck, this was not going to be easy for her. The small space was extremely crowded and she couldn’t understand how people were enjoying this. Walking around she kept her head up looking for Clarke but the blonde was nowhere to be found.

Catching sight of Lincoln and Octavia she sighed in relief making her way towards them, however, she then saw their faces being mushed together and she definitely did not want to be near that. Just as she was about to turn around, she felt a body jumping on her back and instinctively she grabbed the legs that wrapped around her waist. The two arms snaked around her neck with one hand holding a cup which was accidentally shoved into Lexa’s face.

“Hi.” Right away Lexa knew it who was latched onto her like a leech. “Thank you for coming.” She whispered cheerfully in her ear as her arms were tied around her neck. It suddenly hit Lexa that she was holding up Clarke but a very clothe-less one. Her legs were completely bare and her arms were naked. The realization made her tense up as she swallowed down what she was thinking.

“You’re drunk.” She could easily smell the alcohol off the girl’s breath.
“And you’re strong.” Clarke moved one hand to grab onto Lexa’s tricep giggling at how solid it was. Rolling her eyes she finally put the girl down to get a better look at it. Confirming her theory she was wearing red shorts with a white top that strapped around her chest and cut off short to show a little bit of stomach.

“Would it be wrong for me to say if I said your smokey eye made you more smokin hot?” Lexa found herself casually flirting with the girl as she couldn't help herself when she was around her. Clarke ducked her head trying to hide the wide smile that was appearing on her face.
“Don’t do that.” She mumbled.
“Do what?”
“Make my stomach bubble.” Clarke said as she grabbed the girl’s hand. Lexa now felt herself smile wide as Clarke led them to another part of the room.
“Hey everyone this is my friend-”
“Hey what’s up!” Jasper went in for the hug as Lexa stood straight up unmoving not returning the hug. Octavia, Raven, and Clarke began to laugh as they watched how uncomfortable Lexa physically looked.
“Lexa. Lexa Woods.” Clarke finished as she had been interrupted by Jasper. A mortified look appeared on his face as he backed away remembering stories he heard about her. Embarrassed he found himself bowing in front of Lexa as an unamused face remained on her face.
“Better.” Lexa calmly spoke sending everyone around them into laughter again as Jasper walked away in embarrassment.
“Nice to meet you.” Monty held out a hand as Lexa shook it.
“Lexa.” Another voice spoke from behind.
“Bellamy.” The two eyed each other for a brief moment but other than that remained silent towards. That was until Clarke decided to embarrass him in front of everyone.
“Oh my god. Oh my god. Remember when you two fought and Lexa beat you.” Bellamy felt his body stiffen as a few of the guys laughed.

“I wasn’t in my head.” He mumbled as the guys picked on him. Lexa couldn’t help but feel victorious especially since she thought Clarke had hated her for that. Maybe she was more impressed than she realized.

The rest of the night had been a little hectic. Two hours had passed and though Lexa had little to drink; she really did not want to get drunk as she preferred to stay sober. Clarke and her had danced a little but too embarrassed Lexa preferred to watch. She was sitting in a corner now talking to Anya as she snuck a peak at Clarke every chance she could. Anya was similar to Lexa having not gone out as much but Raven managed to bring out a more carefree side of her. She too had missed a lot on the recklessness of a single life.

Clarke had her feet in the air now as someone held her up.
“Chug! Chug!” The chanting went on as she completed her Keg stand. Everyone cheered as she raised both hands in excitement. Catching Lexa's stare she playfully flexed her muscles. The girl responded with a shaking of her head.

“Once again you two are eye fucking.” Octavia appeared from behind now watching the interaction. Clarke took the drink being held out at her as she rolled her eyes at the woman.
“We are just having fun!” Clarke nudged her trying to get her roommate to loosen up.
“Don't lead her on Clarke if you just want to be friends because you know she is wrapped around your fingers.” Clarke looked towards the girl again who gave a her a cry for help begging her to take her away from Jasper who had now been ranting on about lord knows what. Lexa then bit her lip as Clarke had licked her own to capture all the beer that was still floating on it.
“If you wouldn’t do it with Raven or I then don’t do it with her.” Octavia walked away leaving Clarke with a guilty feeling. She enjoyed what the two had going but she couldn’t deny the point that was made. Finishing her drink she knew it was going to be a long night.

Clarke woke up the next morning not being able to remember anything. The sun was beaming through the window and she couldn't remember the last time it was actually this bright in her room. The pillow was much more soft and the sheets were surprisingly really silky. As she rolled over she suddenly could feel the floor. Her eyes shot up as she realized the bed she was in was built into the floor. This wasn’t how her bed was designed.

Clarke sat up now and saw her clothes lying on the floor. Slowly looked down at her afraid to see the damage. Luckily she was still in her bra and underwear which shocked her when she remembered she didn’t wear a bra to the party due to her outfit. Checking the other side of the bed she noticed it was empty. Sighing in relief she looked around the room that clearly now wasn’t hers. It was very bare but anything in the room had very earthy colors. The walls were a soft green giving the room amenity.

What the hell had happened last night? Getting up from the bed she began to hear music playing. It was getting weirder by the minute as none of the pieces from last night were clicking. She looked for her clothes to see if she could leave here quietly but she couldn’t find them on the floor anywhere. Who has sex and doesn’t leave the clothing on the floor? Unless maybe things got intense outside the room. Shit her clothing was probably outside and she was pretty much naked.

Searching the room she noticed a chair by the door with a robe. So she decided to wrap it around herself. As she opened the door from the room the very huge and long hallway she looked back and forth trying to get out of this penthouse she managed to wake up in. No clothing outside the door either, nor a trail. The floor was so clean she was sure she could lick off it.

Carefully walking around she finally entered the living room finding a woman sitting on the piano playing a tune in sweatpants and a bra. Her bare back had been revealed as her dark hair was pushed to the front. It wasn’t a surprise she was probably this beautiful in the morning. Clarke smiled as she knew exactly where she was now feeling slightly better. It was weird that she could tell who it was but something in her just confirmed it. Walking closer she noticed the many different marks on the girl’s back. There was a single tattoo that followed down her spine. There were two circles one filled in at the bottom and the other on top. Something followed down it but the words were covered by her bra. On top of her neck was an infinity sign. Continuously she noticed the tattoo that wrapped around her right bicep. Divided into four the tattoo wrapped around but did not connect having an arching outline that was scribbled in with further details.

Unconsciously Clarke moved closer running her fingers down the girl’s spine. Her fingers carefully outlined every part of the tattoo she could touch. There were other marks on her body but they looked more like scars than anything.

“Feeling better?” She whispered as she held out the last key. The brunette had to keep her eyes tight shut feeling many different sensations swirling inside her. Clarke’s soft fingertips allowed her shoulders to relax having never really been touched like this in a long time.
“What do they mean?” Clarke redirected.

Before she could answer her stomach growled allowing the brunette to avoid the question. “You have nothing in your stomach.”
“Yeah I’m really hungry.” Clarke realized now clutching to her stomach now. Octavia’s words echoed in her head again as apparently that was one of the very few things her brain decided to remember from last night.
“I can have breakfast made, if you like.” The girl turned towards her now with a soft smile on her lips. There was only one thing on her mind now as she noticed how naked she woke up and the other woman’s bare body.

“Lexa, did we?”
She shook her head feeling relief flowing through her body as she released a long breathe not noticing it was being held in.
“You lived too far so you decided to crash here. Octavia was off with Lincoln and Raven couldn’t carry you home alone.”
“My clothing?”
“You were throwing up all night. Hope you don’t mind wearing one of my bras. You didn’t um have on one.” It was becoming clear to her how uncomfortable Lexa was becoming. “I um promise I didn’t uh take-” Clarke cut her off by placing a kiss on her cheek.
“Thank you Lexa.” A now smiling Lexa began to help her piece the night together and felt better knowing she was in good hands. Clarke had felt so awful about the whole situation as she probably could only imagine what Lexa was thinking of her now. Apparently Clarke spent the rest of the night over a toilet bowl as Lexa held her hair up.
“You must hate me.”
“That’s what friends are for Clarke.” Lexa turned around and Clarke suddenly noticed the man in the room. Nodding her head he quickly moved like a shadow in the dark.

“Who was that?”
“Don’t worry about it.” Lexa stated motioning for Clarke to sit on the piano bench with her. Lexa lifted Clarke’s hand placing it on the keys as she began to speak. “People only see the black and white but when you close your eyes and listen, millions of colors will begin to sound.” Lexa then made a bad sound noise with the keys. “You also have control over how you play life. Play a bad sound you’ll get a bad sound. Every three counts press these two keys.” One hand over Clarke’s she showed her what to play and then began to play another tune on the other side. Counting out loud she pressed the keys as Lexa closed her eyes listening.

The music became intense somehow manifesting all her emotions. As Clarke watched Lexa’s hand dance against the keyboards she could feel Lexa’s emotions. Her normal stoic body was now relaxed as she could admire the brunette feeling it. Anger for her parents leaving her. Loneliness for not having anyone to love her the way she deserves to be loved. Despair for all the times she had the most precious things taken away from her. Frustration for all the times she has failed unable to move on. Agony for the pain that still lurks in her body.

Clarke could empathize with the brunette suddenly wanting to do everything in her power to remove all those emotions from her. This was a woman who had seen a lifetime in just a few years. In this moment as she played the piano she finally found a way to be bare and vulnerable. Clarke was witnessing Lexa in such a fragile state that something in her fell and who knew how long it would be before Clarke realized it did.

They had shared a lot of moments together in the past few weeks. What they had going was nice, it was comforting. Except the problem was Octavia was right. She kept telling Lexa she wanted to be friends yet here they were barely clothed playing the piano. Would this be something she would do with Octavia or Raven? She almost laughed at the thought knowing this atmosphere wouldn’t surrounded them. It was slowly making sense to her now what Lexa had said when they danced together that night. It still seemed mushed but she needed to test that theory out more.

Lexa had finished the song looking at Clarke with her bright green eyes.
“Where did you learn to play?”
“It was in the attic of my foster house. I began to play with it one day and soon it became my best friend. It was the only thing that could shut everything out.”

Now it may have clicked in with everyone surrounding them but she was slow with her feelings. Clarke was a stranger to Lexa’s world but she wanted to know more. She needed to hear more, more of who Lexa was.

Who knew how long it would take Clarke before she could fully understand what Lexa had meant when she told her she was waiting for her to know what she already knew.