🎶: Enemy (Piano Version) - Grim Cat Piano
Caitlyn turned her head and saw Asa Konte, the head of the Konte family, approaching with an air of authority. Dressed in a deep emerald suit, his presence commanded attention even in the bustling ballroom.
Asa Konte. The man who started as an Ionian farmer and turned tycoon practically overnight. Partnering with Silco of all people—who even does that?—he fused Ionian eco-principles with Zaunite engineering and built a global empire. Agriculture, engineering, supply chains—he has his hands in everything. Everyone praises him for revolutionizing the industry… What's the saying? A smile doesn't always mean peace. No way a man like that leaves anything to chance.
"Asa," Tobias greeted warmly, stepping forward to shake his hand. Caitlyn shifted slightly, a subtle grimace tugging at her lips as she watched her father's overt friendliness.
"As always, Tobias," Asa replied with a polite nod before his sharp gaze shifted to Vander. "And Vander Kane. It's been far too long."
Vander returned the gesture with a firm handshake. "Asa. Always a pleasure to see you." Caitlyn blinked, her brows drawing together for a split second. Vander? He knows Asa? Since when? Her eyes flicked between the two men, their exchange far too familiar for her comfort.
Asa's eyes moved next, scanning the group until they landed on Vi. His expression remained composed, though there was a flicker of interest. "And this must be Violet Kane," he said smoothly, his tone carrying a mix of curiosity and subtle appraisal. "Vander has spoken of you."
Vi straightened slightly, meeting Asa's gaze with a steady confidence that betrayed none of the tension bubbling beneath the surface. "Mr. Konte," she said, offering a polite nod. "It's a privilege to finally meet you."
Vander's spoken of Vi? To Asa Konte? Caitlyn's gaze flicked to her father's old friend, watching for any sign of what this connection truly meant. How deep does their relationship go?
Asa's lips curved faintly, not quite a smile but enough to suggest he was both intrigued and evaluating her. "The privilege is mutual. Vander's name carries weight, and anyone under his care must hold promise."
Vi caught Vander's subtle nod of encouragement from the corner of her eye, but before she could respond, Shava Konte joined her husband's side. Draped in a stunning crimson gown that shimmered under the ballroom lights, her warm smile held an edge of calculation as her sharp eyes swept over the group.
"And this must be the infamous Caitlyn Kiramman," Shava said, her voice smooth and welcoming as she turned her attention to Caitlyn. "I've heard so much about you."
Caitlyn's eyes widened in surprise at Shava's words, and for a moment, the subtle hum of conversation around them seemed to fade. From beside her, Cassandra's brow arched slightly, her sharp gaze narrowing as she processed the unexpected comment. Even Tobias shifted uncomfortably, glancing between Shava and Caitlyn as the weight of the word infamous lingered in the air.
The group was momentarily stunned, save for Shava, who appeared utterly unbothered by the ripple her statement caused. Catching the tension, she quickly placed a hand lightly on Asa's arm and offered a warm laugh that was as much disarming as it was deliberate.
"Oh, forgive me," Shava said, her tone apologetic but still carrying a hint of amusement. "I didn't mean infamous in a negative sense. It's just that Riven has spoken quite highly of you, Caitlyn."
Caitlyn blinked, her composure returning just enough to force a polite smile, though her mind raced to process the unexpected attention. "Riven has?" she asked, her tone measured but curious.
"Yes, she mentioned you were her escort for the evening," Shava continued, her smile softening with what seemed like genuine kindness. "Though I must apologize on her behalf. She's been pulled away to tend to other matters. You know how these events are—endless demands on one's time."
Cassandra's expression remained carefully neutral, though Caitlyn didn't miss the subtle flicker of disapproval in her mother's sharp eyes. "It's quite alright," Caitlyn replied smoothly, keeping her voice calm and composed despite the storm of questions swirling in her mind. "I'm sure Riven is attending to something important at the moment."
Shava nodded, her smile unwavering as she glanced briefly at Cassandra, as though acknowledging the unspoken tension between the Kirammans. "Indeed. Riven can be… particular about who she chooses to spend her time with," she added, her tone light but pointed. "It seems you've made quite an impression." Charming.
Caitlyn's cheeks warmed slightly, though she quickly masked it with another practiced smile. "Riven has always been… engaging company," she replied diplomatically, avoiding the question buried in Shava's words. Nice try.
Vi, who had been quietly observing the exchange, glanced at Caitlyn, her sharp blue eyes catching the faint flush on her cheeks. A flicker of something crossed her expression—amusement, curiosity, and maybe something darker, something closer to jealousy. She didn't say a word, though; she knew this was Caitlyn's moment to handle.
"Mother," Riven's voice carried just enough sharpness to make her presence known. She stepped into the group with her usual air of confidence, her platinum white hair catching the soft glow of the ballroom lights. Her narrowed eyes betrayed her irritation. "Was that entirely necessary?" Riven's gaze flicked to her adopted mother, the tension in her tone unmistakable. "I don't recall asking for a commentary on my company for the evening."
Shava, momentarily caught off guard, blinked at Riven before recovering with a smooth, practiced smile. "Riven, darling," she said lightly, though there was a hint of defensiveness in her tone. "I was simply being polite. You know how these events are; everyone is curious."
"Curious or prying?" Riven countered, her silver eyes narrowing slightly. "I think we both know the difference."
The weight of her words hung in the air, and the group fell silent for a beat. Caitlyn's blue eyes darted to Riven, unsure whether to feel relieved or more unsettled by her sudden defense. Vi, meanwhile, leaned slightly to the side, her sharp blue gaze fixed on Riven with a mixture of interest and skepticism.
Shava's smile faltered briefly, but she recovered quickly, tilting her head with a faint chuckle. "Well, I didn't mean to offend. If I overstepped, my apologies, Caitlyn." Her tone was light, but her eyes flicked to Riven, a hint of tension lingering there. "You know how protective your Riven can be."
Vi's face twitched almost imperceptibly at the word "your", a brief flicker of irritation crossing her features. Riven stepped in, her voice steady but carrying a firm undertone. "I think you mean just Riven, mother. No one's possession, last I checked."
Shava's smile didn't waver this time, though the glint in her eyes sharpened slightly. "Of course, dear. My mistake," she replied smoothly, her voice carrying a hint of false warmth. She turned to Asa, resting a hand lightly on his arm. "We should circulate, Asa. So many people to see."
Asa inclined his head, his expression unreadable but his tone as composed as ever. "Indeed. A pleasure as always, Tobias. Cassandra. Vander. Caitlyn. Vi," he said, his gaze briefly settling on each of them in turn. The Kirammans and Vander exchanged polite nods in the Konte's direction, a silent acknowledgment of decorum, before excusing themselves to allow the younger generation their space.
Riven's irritation faded as swiftly as it had appeared, her features softening into a calm, detached poise. Her lips curved into a faint smirk, her sharp eyes trailing after Asa and Shava as they retreated into the crowd. With an easy grace, she crossed her arms and tilted her head, her stance exuding quiet confidence. "Well, that was entertaining," she drawled, her voice carrying a dry amusement that suggested she had already dismissed the earlier tension. She turned to Caitlyn, her tone softening. "Caitlyn," she said, her voice quieter but steady, "I hope that didn't make you uncomfortable. That wasn't my intention."
Caitlyn inclined her head, her lips curving into a faint, polite smile. "I appreciate that, Riven."
Riven's gaze shifted to Vi, who remained rooted in place, her sharp blue eyes watching her intently. For a brief moment, their eyes locked, and Riven's smirk deepened slightly, a flicker of challenge and acknowledgment passing between them. She dipped her head ever so slightly, a gesture of respect.
"Vi," Riven began, her voice even, with just a hint of wry humor threading through it. "I trust you'll understand that Caitlyn is my escort for the evening. I didn't mean to step on any toes. My apologies if I have."
Vi's expression didn't waver, though there was a faint twitch of her lips, almost a smile, as she responded evenly, "No toes stepped on. Caitlyn's in good company." Escort for the evening, huh? Cute. Like that changes anything. Vi's sharp blue gaze didn't falter, holding Riven's with a calm intensity that belied the spark of competitiveness flaring inside her.
"Of course she is," Riven replied smoothly, turning back to Caitlyn with a lighter tone. Steady as ever, Violet. But we'll see who Caitlyn chooses to walk away with when the night's over. She stepped closer, her body language relaxed but attentive. "I'd hoped to join you earlier, but it seems I arrived just in time to clean up a bit of a mess."
"Mess might be an exaggeration," Caitlyn replied with practiced calm, though her tone held a trace of playfulness. "Though I suppose your timing is... convenient." Convenient enough to make an impression, I'm sure. Subtlety isn't exactly Riven's style.
-ਠŕ§-
🎶: Play with Fire - Sam Tinnesz feat Yacht Money
The distant hum of the ballroom faded as Riven led Caitlyn through a side door and into the open air. The night was cool, the crisp breeze carrying with it the faint scent of blooming jasmine. Ahead, the moon hung low and luminous, casting its silver light across the garden and painting everything in an otherworldly glow.
Riven came to a stop near a stone balustrade overlooking the grounds, her silhouette sharp yet serene under the moonlight. She glanced back at Caitlyn, her expression softer now, though there was a hint of something unspoken in her eyes.
"I thought you might appreciate a little escape," Riven said, her voice quiet but steady.
Caitlyn moved to stand beside her, folding her hands neatly in front of her. "An escape would be welcome," she admitted, tilting her head to glance up at the moon. "Though I suspect this is more than just a chance to admire the view."
A shadow of a smile touched Riven's lips. "You're perceptive, as always." She rested her hands on the balustrade, her gaze fixed ahead. "I won't waste your time with pleasantries, Caitlyn. There's a reason my family insisted on this ball."
Caitlyn turned to face her fully, her composed expression betraying a flicker of curiosity. "An agenda, then."
Riven exhaled softly, her breath visible in the cool night air. "They want alliances. Partnerships. Influence." Her tone carried a note of disdain, though her posture remained collected. "Every conversation inside that ballroom is a thread they're weaving into a web. And I'm expected to be a part of it."
Caitlyn studied her for a moment, her sharp gaze catching the tension in Riven's frame. "And you?" she asked quietly. "Where do you stand in all this?"
Riven turned her head, meeting Caitlyn's eyes directly. For a moment, her mask slipped, revealing a vulnerability rarely seen. "I stand here," she said simply, her voice softer now. "With you. For now."
Caitlyn's lips curved ever so slightly, a quiet acknowledgment of Riven's honesty. "Well," she said after a pause, her tone lighter but still thoughtful, "if your family's weaving threads, I suppose I'll have to keep an eye on who they're trying to ensnare."
Riven chuckled softly, though the sound was low and thoughtful rather than amused. She leaned slightly against the balustrade, the moonlight casting a faint glow on her sharp features. For a moment, she seemed lost in thought, her gaze tracing the horizon. Then, she turned to Caitlyn, her voice quieter, almost tentative.
"And what about me, Caitlyn?" Riven asked, her tone steady but laced with a vulnerability that contrasted with her usual confidence. "What are your feelings for me?"
Caitlyn blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Her composure didn't falter, but her usual polished demeanor softened, her expression betraying a flicker of uncertainty. "Riven…" she began, hesitating as she chose her words carefully.
"I'm not asking for a declaration," Riven interjected, her lips curving into a faint, almost self-deprecating smile. "I just… need to know where I stand with you. Tonight, or ever."
Caitlyn's gaze dropped momentarily, her fingers brushing against the smooth stone of the balustrade. When she finally looked up, her sharp blue eyes met Riven's with a quiet intensity. "I don't know," she admitted softly, though her voice carried a rare honesty. "You're…" She paused, exhaling as if to steady herself. "You're intriguing, Riven. And complicated."
Riven tilted her head slightly, a glimmer of amusement breaking through the tension. "Complicated. I'll take that as a compliment."
Caitlyn's lips quirked into a faint smile. "It wasn't meant as an insult," she replied, her tone regaining some of its lightness. "But you're asking me to define something I haven't quite figured out myself."
Riven nodded slowly, her expression thoughtful, and then she exhaled deeply, her gaze momentarily shifting back to the horizon. "I need you to know something," she said softly, her voice steady but carrying the weight of her words. "I care about you, Caitlyn. Probably more than I should."
Caitlyn's eyes widened slightly, but she remained silent, letting Riven continue.
"But," Riven said, her tone growing quieter, "I'm not sure if… this, whatever this is, could be something more. Maybe it could. Maybe it couldn't. But what I do know," she added, meeting Caitlyn's gaze again, "is that I want you to be happy. And if that happiness is with Vi…" Riven hesitated, her lips twitching into a small, wistful smile. "Then I'll be your ally in that. No games. No complications. Just someone in your corner, cheering you on."
Caitlyn blinked, her composure faltering slightly as the weight of Riven's words settled over her. "Riven, I—"
Riven held up a hand, her smile softening. "You don't have to say anything. I just… needed you to know where I stand. Whatever you decide, Caitlyn, you'll have my support. Always."
For a moment, silence stretched between them, broken only by the gentle rustle of leaves in the cool night breeze. Caitlyn's gaze softened, and though words failed her, the gratitude in her eyes spoke volumes. The moonlight bathed them both, its silvery glow casting long shadows across the garden as if to bear witness to the quiet understanding that passed between them.
"Why are you telling me all this, Riven?" she asked, her voice low but firm, the weight of curiosity and suspicion threaded through her words.
Riven blinked, then tilted her head, letting out a soft, almost sheepish laugh. "Because I've been meddling," she admitted, the hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "And it's probably time you knew."
Caitlyn's brows arched, her sharp gaze locking onto Riven. "Meddling," she repeated flatly, her tone carrying an edge of skepticism. "Care to elaborate?"
Riven leaned casually against the balustrade, her demeanor light but her eyes thoughtful. "Vi irritates me," she said bluntly, the corner of her mouth quirking upward. "Not because of who she is, but because of how she makes me feel." She paused, shaking her head slightly as if frustrated with herself. "She walks into a room and owns it without trying, and that's already bad enough. But then there's you. The way you look at her—like you're trying not to let anyone see what's written all over your face. And it… irritated me. Irritated me enough that I started prodding Vi on purpose, just to see if she'd do something about it."
Caitlyn's eyes narrowed slightly, her expression unreadable as Riven continued.
"But the thing is," Riven said, her voice quieter now, "what really got under my skin wasn't Vi or her frustrating lack of action. It was you." Her gaze softened as she looked at Caitlyn, a flicker of guilt flashing in her expression. "That night at the party, when I saw that look in your eyes—the one that said you were caught between wanting to be near her and being afraid she'd pull away—I realized I wasn't just irritated. I was… angry. Not at you, not really. Just at the situation."
Riven straightened, her smirk returning, though it was gentler now. "So, I decided to give Vi a little nudge. If provoking her meant she'd finally do something about what's clearly brewing between you two, then maybe it was worth annoying her—and you—a little."
Caitlyn's lips parted slightly, but she didn't speak immediately. She let the words hang in the air, her sharp mind piecing together the layers of Riven's admission. After a moment, she inhaled slowly, the faintest curve of her lips betraying a mix of amusement and exasperation.
"That's quite the confession," Caitlyn said finally, her tone calm but tinged with her signature dry wit. "You went through all this effort, not for yourself, but to push Vi into action because I looked conflicted?"
Riven chuckled, shrugging one shoulder. "What can I say? I'm a complicated woman."
Caitlyn raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a faint, knowing smile. "Complicated? That's one way to put it. Another would be… insufferably meddlesome."
Riven smirked, the casual edge to her demeanor shifting as she leaned closer, her sharp gaze locking onto Caitlyn. "Meddlesome? Sure. But tell me this, Caitlyn—if I didn't meddle, how long were you two planning to circle each other? Forever?"
Forever? A bold assumption. Caitlyn's gaze didn't waver, her expression cool as her thoughts turned inward. But then again, she might not be entirely wrong… But.
Caitlyn's lips pressed into a line, her sharp gaze narrowing as a flicker of irritation crossed her features. "And what exactly gives you the authority to decide how I handle my relationships?" she asked, her tone clipped but edged with restrained fire. "What makes you the gatekeeper here?"
Riven didn't so much as blink, her smirk widening as she leaned lazily against the balustrade, as if Caitlyn's pointed tone only amused her. "Authority? Oh, I don't have any," she replied smoothly, tilting her head. "But you've been tiptoeing around Vi for weeks, maybe months before I met you, and someone had to call you out on it. Let's be honest, Caitlyn, if it were left to the two of you, we'd still be here ten years from now, watching you stare at each other like it's a chess game."
Caitlyn's arms crossed over her chest, her chin tilting up in defiance. "Maybe that's because it's none of your business. I don't need anyone orchestrating my personal life, least of all you."
Riven chuckled, the sound low and full of challenge. "Right, because you've been handling it so well on your own?" she shot back, her sharp gaze meeting Caitlyn's. "Let's not pretend I'm wrong here. You're cautious to the point of paralysis, and Vi? She's reckless about everything except you. She holds back because she thinks you're out of her league. You hold back because—well, who knows? Probably because it's easier than admitting you feel something real."
Caitlyn's composure slipped, her eyes narrowing further as her jaw tightened. "And you've appointed yourself as referee, then? How very noble of you."
Riven's smirk softened, though her gaze didn't waver. "Not a referee, Caitlyn. Just someone tired of watching two idiots circle each other like the world's most frustrating slow burn. You're both too stubborn for your own good, and someone had to do something."
Caitlyn exhaled sharply, her voice dropping to a dangerous calm. "You're awfully sure of yourself, aren't you?"
"Someone has to be," Riven countered, her voice quieter now, though no less resolute. "I'm not here to play gatekeeper, Caitlyn. I'm here because I see two people who could be great together—who should be great together—but are too wrapped up in their own walls to take the risk."
Caitlyn's sharp gaze didn't falter, but her silence stretched a little too long to be comfortable.
Riven leaned in just slightly, her voice soft but unrelenting. "If you're angry, fine. Be angry. But don't tell me I'm wrong, because we both know I'm not. You care about her. And she cares about you. So maybe, just maybe, stop pretending you don't know that and do something about it."
Caitlyn inhaled deeply, her lips pressing into a thin line as her mind churned. Finally, she exhaled sharply through her nose, her voice edged with reluctant acknowledgment. "You're insufferable, you know that?"
Riven grinned, cocking her head. "You've mentioned it once or twice. Doesn't make me wrong, though."
Caitlyn's lips quirked in a faint, begrudging smile, her sharpness giving way to quiet amusement. "No, it doesn't. But don't think this means I'm giving you a free pass to interfere again."
Riven raised her hands in mock surrender, though the glint in her eyes remained unapologetic. "Wouldn't dream of it. But let's be real, Caitlyn—if this were my game, it'd already be over. Consider this me giving you a head start."
-ਠŕ§-
The hum of conversation filled the ballroom as Riven and Caitlyn stepped through the double doors, their earlier exchange fading into the cool night air they'd left behind. The ballroom buzzed with energy, a lively mix of innovators, sponsors, and distinguished guests mingling in small clusters. Tonight wasn't about presentations or formal competition—it was an evening designed to bring together the brilliant minds behind the inventions, giving them a chance to connect, share ideas, and celebrate their work.
Caitlyn's composed demeanor had returned, her sharp gaze sweeping over the room. Riven, as always, exuded an effortless confidence, her hands in her pockets as she followed Caitlyn's lead. At the dais, Asa Konte stood at the podium, his commanding presence drawing attention. The emerald suit he wore seemed to catch the light just so, reflecting his calculated charm as he prepared to address the room.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Asa began, his voice smooth and resonant, silencing the crowd with ease. "It is my great pleasure to welcome you all tonight. This gathering is more than a celebration—it is a recognition of the brilliance and determination that drive progress. To the inventors here tonight, let me say this: you are the lifeblood of innovation, the ones daring to shape the future. And to our esteemed sponsors and guests, thank you for fostering the environment that makes it all possible."
Polite applause rippled through the room. Powder, standing on tiptoes to see over the crowd, tugged at Ekko's sleeve excitedly.
"This is amazing! Do you think we'll get to talk to the big names? What if I meet someone who's already working on something like my idea?"
Ekko chuckled, his arms crossed as he leaned closer to her. "Relax, Powder. You've got all night to make your mark. Just try not to scare anyone off, okay?"
Asa raised a hand, and the applause quieted. "Tonight is about connection. It is about sharing ideas, finding allies, and forging partnerships. The Konte Inventors' Gathering is a space for brilliance to collide, for ideas to spark, and for every one of you to envision the future you want to create." His smile widened slightly, calculated and warm.
He paused for effect before continuing, his tone shifting. "It is also my honor to introduce a guest who has not only reshaped the world of technology but has inspired countless others to do the same. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Jayce Talis."
The applause swelled as Jayce stepped onto the stage. Dressed sharply in a tailored navy suit, he exuded confidence, his easy smile lighting up the room as he waved to the crowd.
Caitlyn froze, her breath catching in her throat. Her sharp blue eyes locked onto him, disbelief flickering across her usually composed face. Jayce. Why didn't I know he was back? Her mind raced as the applause thundered around her.
Jayce approached the microphone, his voice steady as he spoke. "Thank you, Asa, for that warm introduction, and thank you all for having me tonight. Gatherings like this remind me why I started in this field—to be surrounded by people who dare to push boundaries, who refuse to settle for what already exists."
The room was silent, hanging onto his every word.
"This evening isn't about the past," Jayce continued, "or even about where we are now. It's about the future you'll build together. Use this opportunity to share your ideas, find collaborators, and don't be afraid to take risks. That's how progress is made."
A wave of applause erupted again as Jayce paused, his expression softening. "Before I step away, there's someone I'd like to introduce. Someone who has inspired me to keep striving, who has been my greatest supporter and partner. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce my wife, Mel Medarda."
A murmur rippled through the room before applause grew louder. Mel stepped gracefully onto the stage, her golden gown shimmering under the lights. She carried herself with elegance, her poise and confident smile captivating the audience. Caitlyn's breath hitched again, the words his wife echoing in her mind. Her fingers curled tightly around the back of the chair she stood behind as she stared at the pair on stage. Why didn't I know any of this?
Beside her, Riven stood silent, leaning casually against the column. Her sharp gaze flicked briefly to Caitlyn, catching the tension in her posture, but she said nothing, choosing instead to observe the scene with a faint smirk of intrigue.
Powder whispered loudly to Ekko, "Whoa. She's gorgeous. She looks like she stepped out of a painting!"
Ekko chuckled. "Yeah, she's got that whole 'untouchable' vibe going. Figures Jayce would end up with someone like that."
The applause finally began to fade as Asa returned to the microphone. "Thank you, Jayce, and thank you, Mel. Tonight, let the ideas and connections you form inspire your next great breakthroughs. The floor is yours—enjoy."
The room buzzed with energy as conversations resumed, inventors and guests eager to mingle. Caitlyn, however, remained rooted in place, her gaze still on Jayce and Mel as they began to descend from the stage.
Riven finally broke the silence between them, her voice low and edged with amusement. "Didn't see that coming, did you?"
Caitlyn exhaled sharply, her tone clipped. "No. I didn't."
Riven smirked, her gaze sliding toward Caitlyn. "You're having quite the night, Kiramman."
Caitlyn didn't respond immediately, her sharp blue eyes still fixed on the couple. Finally, she muttered, her voice carrying a dry edge, "Interesting night, indeed."
END OF CHAPTER EIGHT