Positive Negatives

"No."

It's a statement. Spoken through gritted teeth, the word is whispered, though both of them are able to hear it. The tone is hoarse; the voice has a tiny tremble in it. Understanding that he is able to catch the nervousness behind the answer makes River want to scream, makes her want to yell at him, lash out and hit him in ways that will cause real harm to his body. It's a startling reaction, but one she is used to. The word magnificent doesn't quite cover how it makes her feel.

She won't slap the Doctor. Well, she won't slap him yet. That comes later.

She won't invade his personal space, or threaten him with words. She knows herself too well; knows him better. Dealing a blow to his form will just give him ammunition to make her angry, and that isn't what she wants right now. Control is what River desires, and power will be denied if she allows herself to become emotional. She needs him to accept her answer. That is all that is required. His response is the most important thing, as it will show how the rest of the night will pan out. She isn't sure how early in their relationship this is for him. Is it too early for him to give her what she wants?

"No?"

The Doctor just continues to stare at her. She nods, licking her lips slightly. He smiles, though it doesn't appear to be friendly.

"No," River repeats, not letting any of her feelings show. It is vital that this encounter goes according to her plans. If it doesn't, she's not sure what the outcome will be. Watching him, she swallows, trying to figure out what he is thinking. She knows him better than anyone or anything in the Universe. He is incredibly easy to read, simple to understand. Yet, now, she can't determine what he will say or do next.

"Okay." Smile lifting into a smirk, he takes a step towards her. Narrowing his eyes and bringing his head down a touch so they are at eye level, the Doctor's gaze flickers to her mouth, before coming back up to lock with her own gaze. The delight in his expression causes her to shudder. Breath warm against her skin, he opens his mouth slightly, before leaning forwards until there is barely a centimetre between them.

"Are you sure, River?" he asks. That is the signal she needs to know that the man standing before her is definitely aware of their relationship status. However early it is for him, it isn't too early.

Lifting her head, she finally lets her lips rise into a smile. This play for power is a game, one that isn't serious.

"Quite, love." Moving to touch her lips to his, River reaches her arms around his neck to pull him closer. He doesn't react until she trails her tongue along his bottom lip as an indication of permission.

Tonight they follow her rules.