Ephemeral

by evanlevan

The mix of curiosity and subtle challenge in Vi's eyes was almost overwhelming, drawing Caitlyn in like a moth to a flame. In a low, flirtatious tone that was almost a purr, Vi said, "You know, if you wanted to spend more time with me, you could've just asked, Cupcake." Caitlyn's cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, and she fumbled for a response. C-Cupcake!

6. Party

🎶: Crazy - Snow Wife

CROWNGUARD CASTLE

The night pulsed with the sound of music and laughter as the Crownguard twins' house party reached its peak. Their parents' sprawling mansion—an opulent white castle with towering spires and gleaming marble—was the epitome of excess. Perfect for hosting frat and sorority mayhem, it had become the crown jewel of the university's social scene.

Most of the time, their parents were away on extended business trips in Demacia, granting the twins unrestricted access to turn the estate into a playground for debauchery. Grand chandeliers reflected the kaleidoscope of party lights, while the mansion's luxurious halls reverberated with the bass-heavy beats that kept the energy surging. The sprawling gardens and indoor pool glimmered invitingly under the moonlight, a siren call for mischief.

Tonight was no exception. Colorful lights flickered in rhythm with the music, throwing shadows across the sleek walls as students danced and mingled with carefree abandon. The Crownguard mansion buzzed with life, its every corner filled with the hum of conversation, clinking glasses, and uninhibited laughter. It was in these moments, when chaos reigned supreme, that the twins truly thrived. Garen, ever the consummate host, strode through the crowd like a king surveying his domain. His towering, athletic frame was impossible to miss, and his confident stride commanded attention. As captain of the Dauntless Vanguard football team, he was a natural-born leader, his charisma undeniable.

With a wide, easy smile and a deep, resonant laugh, Garen made his rounds, greeting friends with warm handshakes and slapping teammates on the back. His fitted graphic tee and perfectly distressed jeans showcased his broad shoulders and lean, muscular build. Striking blue eyes twinkled with mischief as he swapped jokes and stories, ensuring every guest felt like they were part of the action.

As he worked the room, Garen's attention was drawn to a pair of striking redheads lounging near the bar. Katarina and Cassiopeia—the venomously beautiful twins whose presence always turned heads—were watching him with sultry intensity, their emerald eyes glinting like polished daggers. The air around them practically sizzled, their carefully chosen outfits leaving little to the imagination.

Garen smirked to himself, his confidence bolstered by their unwavering attention. Straightening his posture, he ran a hand through his dark hair, casually brushing off imaginary lint from his sleeve to add a touch of flair. "Damn," he thought, his grin widening as he locked eyes with Katarina for just a moment longer. "This party just keeps getting better."

With his signature mix of swagger and charm, he started toward them, the crowd parting effortlessly as he approached. The night was young, and Garen knew how to play the game.

-୨ ୧-

Lux, radiant as ever, glided through the crowd with effortless grace, her bright smile illuminating the room. She thrived in these moments, where the laughter and buzz of conversation blended seamlessly with the music, giving her the perfect backdrop to catch up with friends and spark new connections.

Her chic, sparkling mini dress clung perfectly to her figure, shimmering like stardust under the party lights and accentuating her every move. With her golden hair cascading in loose waves over her shoulders, she looked like a living embodiment of glamour, her effortless beauty reminiscent of Paris Hilton at her peak. A glossy sheen on her lips and a touch of shimmer on her eyelids completed the look, drawing every gaze in the room. Wherever she went, heads turned and whispers followed.

In one corner, a spirited game of beer pong was underway, the players' triumphant cheers punctuating the lively atmosphere. Nearby, others swayed to the pulsing rhythm of the music, lost in the moment as the DJ kept the energy alive. The dance floor was a kaleidoscope of colors, with groups moving in sync to the beat, their laughter and carefree movements creating a contagious joy.

The enticing aroma of food wafted from the buffet table, where a mouthwatering spread awaited the guests. Crispy chicken wings, savory sliders, and fresh veggies with dips tempted the crowd, while chocolate-dipped strawberries and mini cupcakes offered sweet indulgence. Guests crowded the table, their plates overflowing as they exchanged compliments about the delicious offerings.

The entire mansion seemed alive, its luxurious setting bathed in the glow of party lights, its rooms echoing with the sounds of laughter and revelry. And at the center of it all stood Lux, the undeniable star of the evening, a vision of poise and charm in a night that promised unforgettable memories.

🎶: Praise You - Fatboy Slim

As Lux chatted with her cheerleading squad, her words faltered the moment Vi stepped into the party. The atmosphere shifted, the room's energy drawn to the magnetic pull of Vi's presence. Lux's breath hitched, and before she realized it, her jaw had gone slack. She stood frozen, utterly captivated, unable to do anything but watch.

Vi's entrance was impossible to ignore. Her burgundy hair shimmered under the party lights, and her sharp, confident gaze scanned the room with a glint of mischief that seemed to light her up from within. The black button-up shirt she wore, sleeves rolled to her elbows, hinted at strength and subtle rebellion, the top few buttons undone just enough to tease a glimpse of her collarbone. Her dark, slim-fit jeans hugged her athletic frame perfectly, their slight distress adding a rugged edge to her look, while high-top combat boots completed the ensemble, making her appear effortlessly commanding, ready for anything.

The infectious beat of Fatboy Slim's "Praise You" filled the air, amplifying the moment. It was as if the music itself was celebrating Vi's arrival, the upbeat rhythm perfectly matching her aura of effortless cool. Heads turned as the crowd caught sight of her, whispers and lingering glances following her every move.

Vi didn't just walk into a room; she owned it.

Lux tried to focus on the conversation around her, but it was futile. Her gaze kept flicking back to Vi, who moved with the kind of confidence that demanded attention without even trying. The way she carried herself—part bold, part mysterious—was intoxicating, and Lux felt her heart race faster with every passing second. She wondered what it would feel like to break through that air of defiance, to catch a smile meant just for her.

Lost in her thoughts, Lux couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to speak to Vi. What would her voice sound like up close? Was it as smooth and electrifying as everything else about her? The idea of hearing that low, teasing smirk in words sent a thrill down Lux's spine. Her mind spun with possibilities, each one more daring than the last.

Then it happened. Vi's gaze swept across the room and landed on Lux. Not a casual glance—no, it was calculated, sharp, as though Vi had noticed Lux's fixation and was filing it away for later. But there was no smirk, no knowing arch of a brow, no indication that she felt the weight of Lux's attention. Instead, Vi's expression remained impassive, her powder-blue eyes cutting straight through Lux before moving on, as if she hadn't found anything worth lingering on.

The lack of acknowledgment sent Lux's pulse racing for an entirely different reason. The absence of that smirk, the one she had been waiting for, left her breathless with the desire to earn it. It wasn't rejection—it was a challenge, one that left her rooted in place and unable to think of anything else. She swallowed hard, gripping her drink a little tighter as her mind reeled. Vi didn't need to smirk. She didn't need to say a word. She just was, and that was more than enough to leave Lux completely undone.

Okay, okay, don't look desperate, Lux told herself, but her heart wasn't listening. It beat faster as Vi disappeared into the crowd, the lingering pull of her presence leaving Lux both frustrated and wanting.

For a fleeting moment, their eyes had met again as Vi turned toward her friends. Lux swore she saw a flicker of recognition—Does she remember me?—but just as quickly, Vi's attention shifted. Completely unbothered, she walked toward a group of Zaunites, laughing and greeting them like she didn't just tilt the axis of the entire room.

Lux felt a pang of disappointment but also a spark of adrenaline. Not even a bloody smile? The lack of acknowledgment made her even more determined. Straightening her shoulders, Lux excused herself from her friends. She began weaving through the crowd, her heart pounding with a mix of nerves and anticipation.

Vi, meanwhile, was thriving in the spotlight. Her laugh carried over the music as she clinked glasses with a group of Zaunites, her sharp profile catching the light just right. Lux bit her lip, her thoughts swirling as she neared her target. That jawline…

Taking a breath to steady herself, Lux felt the heat rise in her cheeks. This was either going to be her moment—or the start of an obsession she'd never live down.

-୨ ୧-

🎶: São Paulo - The Weeknd feat Anitta

As Lux stood closer, she noticed Caitlyn, Samantha, and Seraphine dancing together in the middle of the room, their laughter and carefree movements adding to the vibrant energy of the party. Caitlyn, with her usual poise, danced gracefully, her moves fluid and mesmerizing. She looked stunning in a hot outfit that accentuated her long, slim legs, drawing admiring glances from everyone around. Samantha, ever the life of the party, moved with infectious enthusiasm, her laughter ringing out above the music. Seraphine, with her bright smile and rhythmic sways, was clearly in her element, enjoying the night to its fullest.

I like them, she thought, a small pang of surprise hitting her chest. It made her wish, for what felt like the hundredth time, that she and Caitlyn could have been closer. They shared the same campus, crossed paths more times than she could count, yet something had always kept them apart. Maybe it was the distance Caitlyn seemed to maintain with everyone, the way her poise sometimes felt like a barrier. Or maybe it was Lux's own hesitation, her own doubts about whether Caitlyn even remembered that day the way she did.

And there Vi was, standing on the sidelines, just… staring. Lux froze as she caught sight of Vi's expression—that smile. It wasn't the sharp, cocky grin that usually defined her; no, this was softer, warmer, more unguarded. It was the kind of smile that could make someone feel like they were the only person in the room, and it softened Vi's angular features in a way that felt maddeningly intimate.

Lux felt a mix of curiosity and jealousy bubbling up inside her. The warmth of that smile wasn't meant for her. It was directed at them—Caitlyn, Samantha, and Seraphine. Lux's chest tightened as she tried to decipher it. Was Vi charmed by Caitlyn's elegance? Enamored with Samantha's infectious energy? Or drawn to Seraphine's carefree spirit? Lux didn't know, but the knot in her chest told her she cared far more than she wanted to admit. Her lips pursed in frustration, a sharp, unintentional "ugh" slipping out as her jealousy simmered. Like, what the fuck? Why can't that be for me?

The flare of envy gnawed at her, sharp and undeniable. Lux's heart thudded as the weight of that smile dug deep, stirring something raw inside her. It wasn't just about Vi—it was about being seen. After all, Lux wasn't used to being overlooked anymore. Not since she'd clawed her way out of the timid, bullied version of herself that had been so easy to ignore just a year ago.

But this—this was different. Vi's indifference cut deeper than she expected, and the sting of being dismissed brought back an echo of old insecurities she thought she'd buried.

Before she could act, one of her cheer squad friends nudged her, laughing about something Lux didn't even register. "Lux, hello? You in there?" they teased, snapping their fingers in front of her face.

Lux forced a smile, the kind that looked effortless but felt razor-thin. "Yeah, sorry," she replied, her voice strained with faux cheer. But Jesus H. Christ, she was barely hanging on. The vapidness of the conversation felt like nails on a chalkboard, and she had no patience to pretend she cared. All she could think about was Vi, standing there like an enigma, and how much she needed that attention to turn her way.

Lux's thoughts churned as she half-listened to her friends' chatter, the frustration bubbling under her skin. She wanted Vi's gaze on her, her smile for her, and she wanted it now.

-୨ ୧-

🎶: GDFR - Flo Rida feat. Sage the Gemini & Lookas blared through the speakers, its pulsating beats and energetic vibe electrifying the atmosphere. The infectious rhythm seemed to pulse through everyone in the room, igniting a wave of energy that transformed the party into a scene straight out of a bustling nightclub. More students from across Runeterra joined the dance floor, hyping up the party even more. The room buzzed with excitement as groups cheered and danced together, their movements synchronized to the thumping bass and catchy lyrics.

Just then, Loris approached with a couple of drinks in hand, weaving through the crowd with an easy confidence. He handed one to Vi, who accepted it with a grin and a raised brow. Their glasses clinked, the sound lost in the roar of the party as their group raised their drinks in a boisterous cheer. The laughter that erupted from the Zaunites was loud and unrestrained, their camaraderie drawing glances from nearby groups and adding to the vibrant energy of the room.

As Loris leaned back to take a sip, his gaze lingered a little too long on Samantha, who was laughing across the room. She caught his look, her eyes narrowing playfully before she rolled them with a laugh, clearly unfazed. Vi didn't miss a beat, her grin turning sharp as she nudged Loris with her elbow. "Careful there, lover boy. If you stare any harder, you'll need a cold shower before the night's over."

Loris smirked, tilting his drink toward her. "Relax, Vi. Not all of us can turn heads just by scowling in the general direction of humanity."

Vi threw her head back and laughed, a deep, full-hearted sound that drew a few curious glances from nearby partygoers. She shook her head, grinning at Loris like he was the most absurdly honest person she'd ever met.

"You know," she said, still chuckling, "you might be the only person I know who'd say something that ridiculous and actually mean it." There was no edge to her voice now, just genuine amusement and a flicker of appreciation.

Loris chuckled, his eyes twinkling as he leaned in slightly, his tone mock-serious but affectionate. "Well, someone's gotta remind you, Vi. Not every Piltie's out to ruin your life. Some of us, believe it or not, might even be worth keeping around."

Vi snorted, rolling her eyes, but her grin didn't falter. "Careful, Loris. Keep talking like that, and I might actually start liking you."

"See?" Loris quipped, raising his glass in mock triumph. "Progress."

Caitlyn, completely lost in the music and the buzz of alcohol coursing through her veins, danced freely alongside Samantha and Seraphine. Their laughter rang out above the thumping bass, bright and unrestrained, as the trio spun and swayed to the relentless rhythm. The pulsing lights painted them in a kaleidoscope of colors, adding to their uninhibited energy.

Caught up in the moment, they didn't notice how the crowd shifted around them, their exuberance carrying them closer and closer to Vi's group. With a sudden burst of movement, Samantha twirled Caitlyn, who stumbled slightly, bumping directly into Vi and Loris. The impact was a chaotic clash of arms and laughter, nearly sending Caitlyn toppling into Vi as she tried to regain her footing.

"Oh, sorry about that!" Caitlyn exclaimed, as she tried to steady herself—clearly too buzzed to be graceful. It took her a second to register who she'd bumped into, and when she did, a sharp, electric chill shot down her spine. Oh, fuck me.

Vi turned, slow and deliberate, her expression unreadable at first. Then, like a storm breaking, her lips curled into that devastatingly cocky smirk. Her eyes locked onto Caitlyn's with a gaze so piercing it felt like it had teeth, biting into her composure and dragging it down to nothing. That stare wasn't just intense; it was primal, scorching through her defenses and igniting something raw and trembling inside her. If looks could kill, this was a fucking execution. Oh, just fucking shoot me already.

"No problem," Vi replied, her voice low, smooth, and edged with something Caitlyn couldn't name but felt down to her bones. Vi raised her drink to her lips, taking a slow, deliberate sip, each movement exuding effortless cool. The air around her crackled, and Caitlyn couldn't tell if it was the music, the alcohol, or Vi herself.

Caitlyn's heart thundered in her chest, her mind racing with equal parts humiliation and something far more dangerous. Floorboards. Loose ones. Hide me under them. Right now. Or maybe, just maybe, run screaming into the night like a lunatic. Either sounded better than being pinned under that impossible gaze.

"Okay, okay, move over, tall, dark, and ridiculous," Samantha cut in, slipping between Caitlyn and Vi with the smoothness of someone who'd clearly done this kind of damage control before. She threw Vi a look—somewhere between impressed and teasing—and added, "Let's hit pause before Caitlyn here spontaneously combusts. We don't have insurance for that."

Seraphine swooped in from the other side, latching onto Caitlyn's arm like a lifeline. "Don't mind her," Seraphine chirped, giving Vi an over-the-top wink. "She's just… recalibrating. Happens when exposed to too much hotness for one night. Totally normal."

Caitlyn groaned audibly, covering her face with one hand as if that could shield her from the mortifying reality. "Can you not right now?"

"Oh, but can we," Samantha quipped, throwing an arm casually around Caitlyn's shoulders. "You're a hot mess, babe, and we're here to save you from yourself. Heroic, I know."

Seraphine spun Caitlyn lightly, dragging her back toward the dance floor as she grinned at Vi. "We'll borrow her for now, but don't worry—we'll return her in one piece. Mostly."

Vi watched them go with an amused raise of her brow, her smirk lingering as she took another sip of her drink. She glanced at Loris, who was valiantly trying not to laugh. "They're fun," she remarked dryly.

Loris tilted his glass toward the retreating trio, then back at Vi. "You've really gotta tell me how you do that. I mean, what's the secret? Leather jackets? The hair? Is there a manual, or are you just born with it?"

Vi snorted, tilting her head slightly, the corner of her mouth quirking up in that infuriatingly confident way. "No secret, Loris. I just show up, and the rest takes care of itself." She took a long, deliberate sip of her drink, her smirk daring him to question her.

-୨ ୧-

🎶: When Love Takes Over - VARGENTA

After dancing for a while, Caitlyn's movements became less coordinated, a soft wobble interrupting her usually elegant grace. Vi had noticed her earlier, half-subconsciously keeping tabs on the girl with the dark navy-blue hair that shimmered under the party lights. She told herself it was nothing—just a glance here and there, purely accidental. But every time Caitlyn laughed, every time she tossed her hair over her shoulder or spun in a way that caught the light just so, Vi's gaze flicked back to her like a magnet.

It wasn't like she was staring or anything. No, definitely not. She was just… aware of Caitlyn. Aware of the way her dress moved as she danced, the way her smile lit up her whole face. Aware of how her laughter sounded even over the pounding music. It wasn't a big deal. Just something she noticed. Repeatedly.

Of course, keeping an eye on Caitlyn had been easy when Loris was conveniently orbiting Samantha. Vi could tell he was trying to play it cool, maintaining just enough distance to not look obvious, but it was clear where his focus lay. Vi's lips quirked into a lopsided grin, a quiet heh escaping as she shook her head. Guess they were both hopeless when it came to keeping tabs on their friends. Aren't we?

She wasn't even sure why she cared—wasn't ready to dig into that particular mess—but when Caitlyn stumbled, that slight wobble in her steps, Vi's body moved on autopilot. In a heartbeat, she was at Caitlyn's side, her hand steady and firm on Caitlyn's arm.

"You okay?" Vi asked, her voice low and steady, laced with quiet concern.

Caitlyn giggled, leaning instinctively into Vi for support, the warmth of Vi's touch grounding her. "Yeah, just a bit dizzy," she admitted, her words slightly slurred but her smile unguarded.

Vi's expression softened, her brows furrowing slightly with concern. Without hesitation, she placed a guiding hand on Caitlyn's lower back, her movements instinctive yet careful. "Come on, let's get you off your feet," she said gently, her tone firm but kind, as if the decision was already made.

She maneuvered Caitlyn through the crowd with ease, her broad frame shielding Caitlyn from the jostling bodies as they made their way to a nearby couch. Vi crouched slightly as Caitlyn sank onto the cushions, her hands lingering just long enough to ensure Caitlyn was stable before pulling back.

"Better?" Vi asked, crouching in front of Caitlyn instead of taking a seat, her intense gaze scanning Caitlyn's flushed cheeks and slightly glazed eyes for any signs she wasn't okay.

Caitlyn nodded, a lopsided grin spreading across her face. "You're not what I expected, you know," she said, her voice soft but tinged with playful mischief.

Vi raised an eyebrow, the corner of her mouth twitching into a faint smile. "Oh yeah? What were you expecting?" she asked, her tone light, though curiosity glinted in her eyes.

Caitlyn shrugged, the playful tilt of her head revealing a bit of vulnerability. "I don't know. Maybe someone who'd laugh at a dizzy girl at a party, not play knight-in-shining-leather."

Vi smirked, her gaze warm but teasing as she leaned just slightly closer. "What can I say? Chivalry isn't dead. Can't let a beautiful girl like you topple over on my watch," she said smoothly, the sincerity behind her words unmistakable.

Vi's gaze locked onto Caitlyn, and for a moment, she forgot everything else—the pounding music, the chatter of the crowd, even the drink in her hand. Her eyes lingered, unhurried, tracing the soft curve of Caitlyn's lips as they curled into a shy, amused smile. She let her gaze wander further, taking in the delicate flush on Caitlyn's cheeks, the way her bright eyes sparkled, a perfect mix of mischief and vulnerability.

The world around them blurred, like someone had turned the volume down on everything except the quiet pull between them. Vi's stare wasn't fleeting or casual; it was deliberate, charged, as though she was seeing Caitlyn for the first time and couldn't look away. It wasn't just Caitlyn's beauty—though that alone could have held her—it was something deeper, something in the way Caitlyn seemed so unguarded, so completely herself in that moment.

Vi's chest tightened, her smirk fading just slightly as something unfamiliar twisted deep inside her. She didn't let herself linger on it—didn't let herself name it. Her gaze stayed fixed on Caitlyn for just a moment longer than it should have, her sharp focus betraying more than she intended.

Oil and water, she thought dryly, her jaw tightening. Mixing's not the problem—it's the mess when it all blows up.

Caitlyn's giggle, soft and unsteady, finally broke the spell, and Vi blinked, as if surfacing from deep water. Her lips curved back into her trademark smirk, a weak shield against whatever it was she'd just felt. But her eyes betrayed her; they held a lingering warmth, a quiet intensity that hadn't been there before.

The air between them felt charged, humming with something unspoken but undeniable. Caitlyn shifted slightly under the weight of Vi's gaze, her cheeks warming even more. She bit her lip and looked away, but her smile stayed, hesitant and almost shy. I just—

"Smooth talker," Caitlyn murmured, her voice barely audible over the muffled thrum of the party. She wasn't sure if the dizziness she felt now was from the alcohol or the way Vi was looking at her—like she was the only person in the room. Vi froze for a fraction of a second, caught completely off guard. The sudden vulnerability in Caitlyn's tone hit like a curveball, throwing her usual confidence into momentary disarray. She wanted to blame the weird jolt in her chest on the alcohol, but that excuse was useless—she wasn't even buzzing. Her head was clear, and that made it worse. You really love giving me heart attacks here, Cupcake…

Vi exhaled softly, leaning back just enough to give Caitlyn space, though her eyes remained locked on her. "Guilty," she admitted, her voice quieter, softer than before, yet steady. It was a simple word, but the weight behind it said everything. Something had shifted, something Vi wasn't ready to name. Her smirk returned, though it didn't quite reach the warmth in her eyes. "But seriously, if you need anything—anything at all—you let me know, yeah?"

Caitlyn looked up at her, meeting her gaze with a soft, unguarded smile that sent another jolt through Vi. "Thanks, Vi," Caitlyn replied, her voice quieter now, sincere. "You're not so bad yourself."

🎶: Jealousy, Jealousy - Olivia Rodrigo

Before Vi could respond, a shadow fell over them, and Lux appeared, a bottle of water in hand. She offered it to Caitlyn with a warm, practiced smile. "Hey, Caitlyn. Thought you might need this," Lux said, her voice lilting with concern but tinged with an edge of self-assurance.

Caitlyn looked up, her smile widening as she took the bottle. "Thanks, Lux," she said, her voice genuinely appreciative as she twisted the cap off and took a sip.

Vi straightened to her full height, her eyes flicking to Lux with a carefully neutral expression. The cool politeness in her gaze faltered for just a moment as realization struck—she'd been standing there too long, too close, and way too protective. Her jaw tensed as she shifted her stance, her usual air of calm control slipping ever so slightly.

"Smart move," she said to Lux, her tone steady but clipped, as if trying to reassert some distance. She nodded briefly before turning her attention back to Caitlyn, her lips curving into a smirk that held just enough edge to mask the tension in her chest.

"Drink up, Cait. Can't have you tapping out on me already," Vi quipped, her voice casual but charged, her hands sliding into her pockets. Lux's gaze lingered on Vi for a moment longer, intrigued by the subtle crack in her otherwise unshakable demeanor. She filed it away, her own smile tightening ever so slightly, as if the dynamics in the room had shifted in ways she wasn't entirely sure she liked—or understood.

Lux, leaning casually against the arm of the couch beside Caitlyn, tilted her head slightly, her posture seemingly relaxed but carrying an undertone of precision. Her voice was bright, her words pointed. "Well, Caitlyn's lucky to have both of us here to look out for her, right?" she said, her tone laced with just enough emphasis to sharpen the air between them.

Her gaze flicked briefly to Vi before settling back on Caitlyn with a smile that lingered almost too sweetly, just on the edge of possessive. Lux adjusted her stance slightly, her body angling just enough to subtly close the space between her and Caitlyn, her presence a deliberate contrast to Vi's now-measured distance.

Vi raised an eyebrow at Lux's remark, her side grin returning faintly, but she didn't bite. Instead, she leaned back against the couch, against the opposite couch arm, crossing her arms with deliberate ease. Her body language was a study in cool detachment, her attention still fixed on Caitlyn as if Lux's pointed remarks hadn't even registered. That unshakable calm only made Lux's frustration simmer more.

🎶: Stay - 070 Shake

Before the tension could deepen, a cheerful voice rang out, breaking the spell. "There you are!" Samantha exclaimed as she and Seraphine weaved through the crowd with Loris in tow. "We've been looking everywhere for you!"

Seraphine immediately plopped down beside Caitlyn, looping an arm through hers. "We figured you'd need rescuing by now," she teased, throwing a glance at Vi and Lux with an exaggerated wink. "Though it looks like you're in good hands!"

Samantha stood by the couch arm closest to Vi, her eyebrow raised at the tableau in front of her, clearly amused by the dynamics she'd just walked into. "Are we interrupting something?" she asked innocently, though the glint in her eye suggested otherwise.

Loris strolled up next, squeezing himself just right next to Seraphine. He leaned casually against the back of the couch, his smirk widening as he took stock of the group. His eyes flicked to Caitlyn, then briefly to Lux and Vi, before returning to Caitlyn with exaggerated mock admiration. "Damn, Cait," he drawled, "VIP treatment, huh? Got the campus heartbreaker on one side and cheerleader captain on the other? Respect." He tipped his drink toward her in a playful toast before shooting a wink at Vi.

Caitlyn groaned audibly, her face in her hands as she muttered, "Kill me now."

Vi rolled her eyes, her lazy smirk growing sharper as she shot Loris a glance over her shoulder, her eyes flicking meaningfully toward Samantha standing beside her. "Don't you have someone else to annoy, Loris?" she muttered, her tone laced with mock irritation but carrying an unmistakable undertone of amusement.

Loris opened his mouth, a retort already forming, but Seraphine's voice cut through like a cheerful siren. "Come on, Cait! Let's get you back to the dance floor," Seraphine said, tugging on her arm with playful insistence. "You promised me a duet of bad dance moves!"

Before Caitlyn could respond, Vi was already moving. Pushing off from the couch, her movements were swift and instinctive, her expression betraying a flicker of concern she hadn't even registered herself. "I'll come with," she said quickly, her voice firm but casual, as if trying to mask the fact that her body had acted before her brain.

Lux, however, was quicker. She caught Vi's wrist with a seemingly casual grip, almost too polite, but the weight of it held Vi in place more than it should have. "Actually, Vi," Lux said, her voice sweet but pointed, "We were just about to grab another drink, weren't we?" She tilted her head, her golden hair catching the light as her smile widened. "I'm sure Caitlyn's in excellent hands."

Vi froze for a beat, her sharp eyes flicking to Lux's hand, then to her face, reading the calculated intent beneath her polished expression. The instinct to brush her off burned hot and fast—a quick flick of her wrist, a step forward, and she'd be back where she wanted to be.

Wanted? The word hit her like a slap, uninvited and jarring. Did you really?

Her jaw tightened, the tension rippling through her shoulders as she forced herself to still. Lux's grip wasn't what held her back—hell, it wouldn't have stopped her if she wanted to move. No, it was the realization of what she'd just done—how quickly she'd reacted, how easily she'd let her guard slip. What the fuck is this.

"Right," Vi said finally, her voice low and even, the edge smoothed out to something almost unreadable. She pulled her wrist free gently but deliberately, her movements controlled. "Guess I could use a refill." Her lips quirked into a faint, detached smirk, like armor sliding into place. Whatever had been there a moment ago was gone, buried as neatly as a secret Vi wasn't ready to acknowledge. Her gaze flicked briefly to Caitlyn, who was being half-dragged away by her friends, a laugh spilling out despite her protests. The sight tugged at something deep and maddening in Vi's chest, but she shoved it down, hard.

We're just friends. Right?

Caitlyn's lips parted as if to protest, but Samantha was already herding her away with Seraphine and Loris in tow. "We've got her!" Samantha called over her shoulder, shooting Vi and Lux a knowing glance. "You two play nice!"

Vi watched Caitlyn disappear into the crowd, her laugh lingering in the air, soft and unsteady over the pounding music. She shifted her attention back to Lux, who stood there with that blinding, sunlit smile, her golden hair catching the light like a scene straight out of a movie. It was almost too perfect, too practiced—but Vi pushed the thought aside. Not now. Not yet.

END OF CHAPTER THREE