the bass thumps heavy in time with their heart, electronic accents jittering beneath their skin, and it's all theo can do not to turn right back around and walk out the door. the club scene certainly isn't their usual haunt, too many people pressed together in a space that's too small and too loud, but the emptiness of their apartment was starting to wear them down. this had been the next best alternative they could think of, and they carefully tilt their drink away from a group of people stumbling in front of them and towards the bar. they take a seat on one of the plush couches, and tilt their head in greeting towards the very large, very grim looking security detail standing just over kerry's shoulder. they can't remember his name, and they're not sure he remembers theirs, either, but at least he doesn't jump the couch and try to choke them just for sitting there. their stare drifts, landing on where kerry is reclined into plush cushions, rainbow bulbs lighting up one side of his face, then the other.

     “ i don't want to be alone tonight. ” they sip from their glass, teeth glinting when they offer a charming smile. “ need some company? ”

     “ you could never be a burden on me, ” theo says immediately, without needing to think about it - because it's true. they genuinely enjoy their time with kerry, and the skills he brings to the table. he's not all flash and charisma and talent. theo has found more hidden qualities than they're able to count, revealing each one with no shortage of delight. they've missed what it's like to become familiar with another person again.

     they keep their eye on the dark, silent building they've spied through their lenses, adjusting the dial at their temple to clear up the image. their choice not to glance at him is intentional; it offers a chance to speak without the weight of their stare on him.

     “ i'd worry because we're friends, not because you're dragging me down, ” they continue, voice low and steady against the backdrop of midnight. “ i was surprised you asked to come along. tracking can be very boring. ”