Screen Runner

SEVEN: THICKER THAN BLOOD

Jasmine stood in front of the mirror, tugging at the Kevlar leggings that hugged her form tightly. She turned slightly to the side, inspecting the fit, and let out a frustrated sigh. "This is really tight. I think it shows way too much of my ass," she remarked, her brow furrowing as she assessed her reflection.

Gazelle, who was adjusting her own gear nearby, turned to look at Jasmine and burst into a lighthearted giggle. "Oh, come on! Don't worry about it. I tailored it myself. It fits well," she said, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Jasmine shot her a playful glare. "You're saying that because it's your handiwork! I feel like I'm about to enter a fashion show, not a mission."

"Well, if you are, you'll definitely steal the spotlight," Gazelle teased, stepping closer to admire the design. "Besides, we want to make sure we're both functional and fabulous. Comfort is key, but looking good while taking down the bad guys doesn't hurt either!"

Jasmine couldn't help but chuckle at Gazelle's enthusiasm. "I guess you have a point. But if I'm going to be running around, I'd rather not be self-conscious about how I look."

"Trust me," Gazelle replied, her expression turning serious for a moment. "You look incredible, and that confidence will carry you through. Besides, we're in this together. You're going to be a force to be reckoned with, and that's what matters most."

Jasmine took a deep breath, letting Gazelle's words sink in. "You really think so?"

"Absolutely," Gazelle affirmed, her tone supportive. "When you feel good in what you're wearing, it can boost your confidence. Just remember, you're not just wearing this for yourself; you're wearing it for the mission-and for the people we're protecting."

With that, Jasmine smoothed down the sides of her leggings and straightened her posture, her self-assurance slowly returning. "Okay, you've convinced me. I'll own this look!" she declared, a smile spreading across her face.

"Now that's the spirit!" Gazelle encouraged, clapping her hands together. "Let's get ready to show them what we're made of. We're going to look amazing and make a difference while we're at it."

Jasmine nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose as she adjusted her gear. "Alright, let's do this. Mission first, fashion second!"

Jasmine raised an eyebrow at Gazelle's playful remark, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Besides, I've gotta be a bartender. I've gotta look stunning," Gazelle said with a dramatic flair, throwing her hands up in mock exasperation before winking playfully.

Jasmine chuckled, shaking her head. "Oh really? So, you're saying that looking good is part of your job description now?"

"Absolutely! If I'm serving drinks and keeping the mood light, I need to bring my A-game," Gazelle shot back, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "And let's be real, you're going to get more action with that outfit. You get to shoot bad guys while I'm behind the bar mixing cocktails."

"Right, because nothing screams 'action hero' like serving up a martini," Jasmine replied, rolling her eyes but unable to suppress her smile. "But honestly, I guess we both have our roles to play in this mission."

"Exactly!" Gazelle responded, her tone upbeat. "We each have our strengths. While you're out there taking down the villains, I'll be charming the crowd and gathering intel. It's a win-win situation!"

Jasmine nodded, appreciating the playful banter that lightened the atmosphere. "Well, if that's the case, I'll make sure to give you a shout-out when I take down the first bad guy. 'Thanks to Gazelle for the stunning outfit!'"

"Let's just hope the bad guys are as easy to take down as they are to dress up," Gazelle quipped, tossing her hair back with an air of confidence. "But remember, if they don't fall for your moves, I'll be right there serving them a cocktail of justice."