Cognitive Dissonance

Chapter 10: Pretty in Pink

Rachel found herself sitting by the kitchen counter watching Jason Todd with his permission. She used to just observe him quietly at dinner time but today is different. He asked her to join him for breakfast as if he didn't offend her before doing so. To her surprise? He's even preparing the food himself and told her to just sit and relax.

Yet, nothing surprises her more than herself. Not in a million years did she think she was ever going to sit down at the request of someone who had been rude to her just a minute ago, but here she is, doing exactly that. She can't help it. He was smiling at her and she couldn't find it in herself to reject him.

"What are we having?" she asked, not wanting to spend the waiting time doing nothing but looking at him. Although that isn't a bad thing at all. She might have ignored this bit of fact in her head but he is actually handsome.

"You'll see," he said, looking over his shoulder and giving her that smile again. Jason Todd must be in a good mood. And if she's being honest it puts her in a good mood too.

Whatever it was Dick Grayson -- considering the assignment was to take a picture of her -- said in his message, it sure turned the tides in favor of peace between Jason and her. She's not sure if she's going to like it or not, but he's making breakfast. That has to count for something.

Rachel also didn't want to lose the streak of days when she thought her life got better so she is in a place where Jason Todd is allowed a second glance. Even if he just indirectly called her a bitch a few moments back. Besides, whatever it is he's preparing smells good.

"Is that how you're going to lower my expectations?" Rachel quipped. "You wish," Jason grunts in response. "I told you I'm the best person you're going to meet in this house," he added.

"Yeah, right," Rachel rolled her eyes. "You know, you being defiant like that actually makes me like you," Jason commented, turning to face her. "Cause I don't believe for one minute that you're this lost kitten Dickie saw on his way home and took pity on," he continued before giving what's in his teaspoon a taste.

Jason realized then and there the charm of Rachel Roth having unusually pale skin. The lightest of colors against it, will be clearly visible whether she likes it or not. If the rose on her cheeks is any indication, Jason supposed he said something that made her embarrassed. And if he would not be neglecting any idea in consideration of the young lady in front of him, he will arrive at one conclusion only. She's blushing. Because he said he likes her.

"I'd be honest. I do not like being pitied," Rachel admitted, her fingers finding each other in tangles. She wasn't certain why she's sharing that piece of information with him. She feels like she should. That's probably enough reason.

"Touché then?" he asked, looking at her with the intent to coax her to say what he wants to hear. "I guess," Rachel shrugged. Jason just nodded and turned his back on her to finish what he's doing.

In less than five minutes, the food is ready. "Alright, miss pretty in pink. Let's go," Jason said, breaking the ice. In his hands is a tray with cover, keeping what's in it a secret still.

"You did not just say that," Rachel blurted out. She tried to cover her mouth but it was too late. Jason Todd just called her pretty and she was not able to prevent herself from reacting the way she did. She sounded almost mad because he's obviously trying to get a rise from her.

"What? You are in pink. And you're pretty," Jason casually said as he looked at her funny. He noticed she was going the opposite direction from him.