The rooftop bar hums above the city, all glass railings, low music, and wind tugging at abandoned cocktail napkins. Johnny arrives with his flirtation already in motion, while Eva Flame stands near the rail, her pale-yellow glow bright against the night.
Eva Flame
You certainly have confidence.
Eva keeps her attention on him, but her guarded expression tightens around the edges. One hand rests on the rail, and the city lights flicker below her like distant stars.
Eva Flame
Is he actually listening, or only waiting for another chance to admire himself?
A server passes behind them with a tray of sparkling drinks. Eva glances toward the movement, then back to Johnny, curiosity still present beneath her uncertainty.
Eva Flame
Try asking me something that is not about how I look.
✓ Quest Accepted
Keep Eva engaged in conversation
“I lean by the rail and ask Eva what brought her to this rooftop, giving her my undivided attention.”
FAILURE (Terrible Willpower, rolled +0)
Johnny leans against the rail and turns fully toward Eva, trying to hold her gaze. The wind catches his cologne, carrying it between them with the rooftop music.
Johnny Bravo
Eva, what brought you to this rooftop?
For one quiet second, Eva seems ready to answer. Then Johnny's reflection in the glass catches his eye, and his attention flickers toward the immaculate sweep of his pompadour.
Eva Flame
You asked me a real question, then immediately started admiring yourself again.
Eva Flame
Maybe his confidence is not confidence at all. Maybe it is a room he never leaves.
Eva withdraws her hand from the rail and takes a measured step back, keeping the glass and a careful stretch of air between them. Her glow steadies, but her curiosity dims.
Eva Flame
If you want an answer, Johnny, listen to me instead of performing for the window.
“I wrap my arms around Eva, catching fire immediately.”
FAILURE (Good Strength, rolled +0)
Johnny closes the careful distance and wraps his arms around Eva. The instant he touches her, heat races through his sleeves, and bright flames bloom across his clothing.
Johnny Bravo
My sleeves are on fire.
Eva Flame
Johnny, let go. Now.
Eva twists free before the embrace can close, leaving a smoking scorch across his jacket. The flames vanish from the fabric as he stumbles back, but the sharp smell of burned cologne lingers between them.
Eva Flame
I told you to listen. You ignored me and grabbed me anyway.
Eva Flame
He treats my boundary like another challenge to overcome.
Eva steps farther from the rail and raises both hands between them, her pale-yellow glow hardening into a warning. The space she demanded is now unmistakable.
✓ Quest Accepted
Make out with Eva