She preemptive strikes

Claire fought back her worries and said, “Do you think we could check out that game tonight? I would understand if you were tired from your shift and you can just take me home.” Veronica smiled so brightly Claire thought she was an angel descended down from heaven. She shifted aside her bangs as she started the car up since they were having a moment.

Veronica pushed aside her hands and said, “Absolutely. Do you need to check in with anyone?” Claire shook her head no and watched the carriage leave the parking lot and head for a side of town that was definitely considered to be rougher. Claire wasn’t judging by any means but she definitely had never been this way before. She looked for Veronica and could see a glimpse of nervousness. She grabbed Veronica’s free hand and gave it an affirmative hold as well as a reassuring smile. Veronica seemed to take the hint as she exhaled and interlaced her fingers into Claire’s.

They pulled into an apartment complex and Veronica parked herself into her designated spot. She turned to Claire and said, “So I live by myself and I haven’t had a chance to clean up as I never EVER have visitors so please don’t mind the mess.”

Claire giggled and smiled while saying, “You wouldn’t fit the gamer girl stereotype if you were also a neat freak. Trust me when I say my room is probably more of a disaster than your apartment.” This got a hearty laugh out of Veronica as well as an exhale to know that Claire was not gonna judge her.

They exited her car and held one another’s hand as Veronica led the way to her apartment. After a few flights of stairs, both girls were huffing and puffing a bit just as they got to apartment 404. Veronica unlocked her door and said, “Welcome to my humble abode! Once again, excuse my mess.” Claire looks around and sees that it is a bit messy but she was right that her room definitely was messier.

Claire could see Veronica was fidgeting a bit waiting for any feedback from her guest. Claire smiled and said, “Was this all you were worried about? I was scared that you had mounds of trash and couldn’t walk through the apartment at all. I will have to clean up my room after seeing your place.” Veronica blushed and Claire realized she had invited her new friend over and shortly blushed afterwards. They both stared at one another as the cuteness of the situation hit the two young women. Veronica eventually started laughing followed by Claire as the awkwardness dissolved into good fun.

Veronica pushed aside her bangs and said, “So you down to game?” Claire nodded with a smile as she took Veronica’s extended hand. She led Carla to her living room that housed her tv, gaming console and comfy couch.