[ jughead doesn't look up when archie slides an arm around him. it's all part of the game, he tells himself and doesn't focus on how awkward things might be with this new arrangement. but what he does do is tap a few more notes into his laptop and finishes the thought he had before chancing a glance at betty. is she okay with this, he wonders. she seems content enough, but he figures that's because betty is so much more adaptable than him. that said, he can't help but wonder how much of the part she's playing and how much he should play too. something to ask veronica, no doubt. after all, she's familiar with this level of opulence while he most certainly is not.

finally turning to archie, he presses his lips together and raises a brow. where to begin? he's already made inroads to crashing the system, but he feels like it isn't enough. maybe with his friends here, he'll get further along, but it almost seems like an insurmountable task.

closing hs laptop, he leans forward. keeping his voice low is important because there's no knowing who might be listening. ]

As you may have noticed, I've already been at work. The problem is breaking into the system that keeps the servus in the arena. I've discretely asked around and there are plans in the works, but I still feel like we need to do something. Then there's the issue of keeping up the charade. I don't know about you guys, but being married so young is a bit weird.