It’s a testament to Betty’s strength of character that the shiver those words induce doesn’t make itself known.
The thing is, there’s a part of her that knows this isn’t the first time Reggie’s said these words to a girl, maybe even with the same inviting grin. It’s far too easy to allow the INSECURITY to get the best of her, to remind her of everyone that came before her. Not that her track record is squeaky clean either –– both Archie and Jason Blossom have her slightly questioning her taste in men.
Beneath the lunch table, Betty reaches for his hand and intwines their fingers together. She’s not sure who squeezes first, but it doesn’t matter much. She tries to imagine what it’d be like if they could do this publicly, without worrying about what everyone would think. Honestly, if it were up to her, this charade would be over by now. But instinct tells her that Reggie isn’t ready –– isn’t he? He’s never mentioned coming out, so she hasn’t either. Even though she’s sick of the secrecy. Even though she’s scared to believe after the truth comes out, he’ll be OVER andDONE with her.
Their secret relationship in combination with the illicit nature of their meetings just feels WRONG now, when it once felt exciting and new. She’s a simple girl, with simple wants. Holding her boyfriend’s hand isn’t much to ask. Heck, what she wouldn’t give to just be able to call him that in front of every girl that flirts with him.
It’s a testament to Reggie’s change of character that he doesn’t flirt back.
At the end of the day, that’s what keeps her sane. Soon enough, one day, they’ll be able to be together without judgement. Until then…
“ Yeah, that sounds SWELL. ” Then, because she can’t resist, because she’s Betty Cooper and can’t keep her mouth shut, “ Though, not going to lie ––– I’d have loved to meet your parents… Officially I mean. ”
“ Is that weird? ”
HINT OF ROMANCE || not accepting