~ Holiday Party - NYC ~

"Connor?" Rachel calls from the loft above, where my bedroom is, then she peers over the railing at me. "There you are. Where have you been?"

"Getting ready," I tell her and turn around once. I'm dressed and my hair's brushed.

Her head withdraws and she starts down the stairs. I can tell she's smirking - trust me, I just know. She stalks over to me and straightens my tie - because she must. It's not that it's crooked, not at all, it's just something that she always has to do. It's rather cute, really. And I watch her do this every time. Like a ritual. And it ends the same way, she pats my cheek and tells me I'm ready to go. I have to smile at her when she does that.

"You always wear the same suit."

"I don't need another suit," I tell her, stroking a hand over her soft cheek. I can't believe it's been almost fifty years. My sweet Rachel. She smiles at me - that same smile I saw once she knew she was going to be okay back in 1943. I lean down and give her a soft kiss.

She doesn't scowl at me - this time. Instead, she gives me a small smile and tells me we should go or we'll be late.

~ Holiday Party - NYC (pt 2) ~

Rachel and Connor arrive at the party - not late, meaning Rachel is happy. It's the same party they go to every year, the same group of friends they rarely see, but the air is festive and light and it's a fun party. and mun is so not in the 'write a fun party scene' mood, so this is gonna be really short until something strikes.

Mingle.

Drink champagne and wine.

Mingle.

Talk to people about innane topics that no one will care about in the morning.

Mingle.

Connor, for once in his life, wishes that someone would come through to take his head, but nope... that's not happening. However, Rachel's happy and enjoying herself, so, Connor's happy. He really doesn't wanna fight anyone wearing the suit anyway - b/c then he'd have to buy a new one.

Mingle.

Mingle.

Chat.

Go home.

********

"Good night, Connor."

"Good night, Rachel." I kiss her on the cheek and she smiles at me. I may not always have fun at the party, but watching Rachel enjoy herself is more than enough - it's why I go every year. Plus, she always looks so pretty in her dresses. I don't remember when we started going to the parties, but I remember she's worn a different dress every year. And that she won't let me buy them for her. Stubborn woman.