: White Mustang - Lana Del Ray

Caitlyn leaned against the cold stone railing of the Tariost balcony, her fingers tracing absent patterns along its weathered surface. The sprawling gardens below stretched out in perfect symmetry, their manicured beauty an insult to the mess inside her head. The late afternoon sun poured over the estate, casting the gardens in a warm, golden light. It was beautiful, serene even. But Caitlyn felt no comfort in the view. Her thoughts were a tangled knot, and the phone in her pocket seemed to grow heavier with every passing moment.

She hadn't turned it on yet. She couldn't. Her mother would know by now—of course she would. Lady Cassandra Kiramman was not the type to be caught unaware, especially when the Kiramman name was at stake. The thought made Caitlyn's stomach twist. She could already imagine her mother's carefully composed voice dripping with disappointment, the questions that would follow: What were you thinking? How could you be so careless?

"What's on your mind, Cupcake?" Vi's voice cut through her spiral, pulling her back to the present.

Caitlyn glanced sideways at her. Vi was leaning on the railing like she didn't have a care in the world, her scarred hands resting easily on the stone. That maddening calm of hers—it was infuriating. And yet, it was grounding.

"Plenty," Caitlyn said, keeping her tone steady even as her fingers tightened around the railing.

Vi raised an eyebrow, a small smirk tugging at her lips. "You've been standing here long enough to kill a whole daydream. Out with it."

Caitlyn sighed, her gaze returning to the gardens. "I haven't turned my phone on yet."

"That bad, huh?" Vi said, her smirk softening into something more thoughtful.

Caitlyn hesitated, then nodded. "If I turn it on, I'll have to face it. And my mother." She let out a quiet, bitter laugh. "She'll already know, I'm sure. She always knows."

Vi tilted her head, watching Caitlyn carefully. "So don't turn it on yet. Let her stew for a bit. You've got nothing to feel guilty about."

Caitlyn barked a dry laugh, shaking her head. "Nothing to feel guilty about? My name's plastered all over Hexgram, Vi. There are videos of us drinking and dancing—God knows what else. And the comments... You don't know what it's like to have people dissecting your every move, tying it back to some outdated idea of family honor."

Vi shrugged, her gaze flicking toward the horizon. "Maybe not like you, but people have been calling me trouble since I could walk. I learned to stop giving a damn."

"It's not that simple," Caitlyn snapped, then immediately softened her tone. "You don't understand. My mother... she's spent her life building the Kiramman name. She'll see this as an attack on everything she's worked for. And worse, she'll blame you."

Vi's jaw tightened at that, but her voice stayed steady. "So? Let her. I don't care what she thinks of me. But I care what you think."

Caitlyn froze, the weight of those words hitting her in a way she wasn't prepared for. She turned to face Vi fully, the words spilling out before she could stop herself. "I think you deserve better, Vi. Better than being dragged into this mess, better than the things they're saying about you." She hesitated, her throat tightening. "They don't see you the way I do. They don't know who you really are."

Vi blinked, clearly caught off guard, before scratching the back of her neck. "Alright, now you're making me sound like some tragic hero," she muttered, though there was no real annoyance in her voice.

Caitlyn let out a quiet laugh, her grip on the railing easing. "Maybe you are," she said, her tone softer now. "You're always there when it matters, Vi. Even when it's messy. Even when it's... me."

Vi turned to her, the teasing edge in her expression slipping away entirely, replaced by something heavier—something weighed down by guilt. Her eyes flicked down to where their hands nearly brushed on the railing, and for a moment, she couldn't meet Caitlyn's gaze. "Cait... I'm sorry," Vi said, her voice quiet, almost hesitant. "This whole mess... It's my fault. If it weren't for me, none of this would've happened. You wouldn't have to deal with… any of this."

Caitlyn frowned, her grip on the railing tightening slightly. "Vi, don't—"

"No, let me finish," Vi interrupted, her voice steadier now, though it still carried the edge of regret. She looked at Caitlyn then, her blue eyes sharp but vulnerable in a way Caitlyn didn't often see. "I should've been smarter. I should've protected you from this, from... them. Instead, I dragged you into it. And now everyone's looking at you like it's your mistake, when it's really mine."

For a moment, neither of them spoke. The wind stirred around them, carrying the faint scent of the gardens below. Caitlyn let out a quiet sigh and reached for Vi's hand, her fingers brushing against hers before clasping gently. "Vi, look at me."

Reluctantly, Vi's gaze lifted to meet hers, her expression a mixture of guilt and uncertainty.

"This isn't your fault," Caitlyn said firmly, her voice steady but warm. "I made my own choices. And I don't regret any of it. So stop blaming yourself."

Vi stared at her, the tension in her jaw easing slightly, though the guilt in her eyes lingered. "I just... I didn't want this for you, Cait. You deserve better than being dragged into my mess."

Caitlyn shook her head, her grip on Vi's hand tightening just slightly. "I don't care about the mess, Vi. I care about you." She reached out, her fingers brushing against Vi's hand where it rested on the stone railing. Slowly, she laced their fingers together, the warmth of Vi's calloused hand against hers grounded her. Vi stiffened slightly at the unexpected contact, but when Caitlyn glanced up, she saw the tension in Vi's shoulders ease.

Vi stared at their joined hands for a moment, her calloused fingers twitching slightly against Caitlyn's smoother ones. Her lips parted, as if she wanted to say something but wasn't sure how to start. Finally, she exhaled, her gaze flicking back to Caitlyn's. "We're like oil and water, you know," Vi said softly, her voice carrying a mix of self-awareness and resignation. "We don't belong together—well, not in the way everyone expects. Not in the way that makes sense."

Caitlyn's brow furrowed slightly, her fingers tightening their grip around Vi's. "You really think that?" she asked, her voice quieter now, but steady.

Vi glanced away briefly, the corners of her mouth tugging downward. "I mean, look at us, Cait. You're... you. And me? I'm the kid from the streets, the one everyone's ready to write off as trouble." She shook her head, letting out a bitter laugh. "We're not exactly the fairytale people want us to be."

Caitlyn held her gaze, unflinching. "Fairytales are overrated, Vi."

That earned her a faint smile from Vi, though it didn't quite erase the vulnerability in her eyes.

"You're not oil, and I'm not water," Caitlyn continued, her voice firm but gentle. "We're more like… fire and steel—different, sure, but stronger together. We don't need to make sense to anyone else. We just need to be us."

Vi blinked, her lips twitching as if she couldn't decide whether to smile or argue. She settled for a soft chuckle, shaking her head. "You always have to get the last word, don't you?"

Caitlyn's lips curved into a faint smile, a glimmer of amusement in her eyes. "Only when I'm right."

For a moment, the two of them stood there in silence, the golden light of the setting sun casting long shadows across the balcony.

Then, a loud sniffle shattered the quiet.

Caitlyn froze, her head tilting slightly as if she couldn't believe what she'd heard. Vi's brow furrowed, and she slowly turned her head toward the sound. Behind them, standing just closely next to the glass balcony door, were Seraphine and Loris. Seraphine was clutching a tissue to her face, her pink curls bouncing slightly as she tried to hold back a torrent of emotions. Her attempts were futile, though, as her sniffling turned into a garbled stream of words.

"Th-that was just s-so... b-beautiful!" Seraphine managed to choke out between sobs, her watery eyes wide with admiration. "You two are like a storybook romance! The way you just get each other—it's like something out of a movie!" She sniffled again, dabbing furiously at her nose.

Beside her, Loris stood with his arms crossed, his lips pressed together in what looked like a desperate attempt to keep himself from tearing up. His shoulders shook slightly, betraying his own emotional turmoil. "I'm not crying," he muttered, though his voice wavered. "It's just... the dust in this place. It's everywhere."

Seraphine turned to him, her face bright with emotion. "Loris, don't lie! You're crying because love is real, and it's here,and we're lucky enough to witness it!" She grabbed his arm, practically bouncing on her heels.

"Oh my God, will you two stop?" Vi muttered, spinning around to glare at them, her eyes narrowing into slits. Caitlyn followed suit, her sharp blue eyes cutting toward the pair. "How long have you been standing there?" she asked, her tone icy enough to make Seraphine flinch slightly.

"Long enough!" Seraphine blurted out, completely oblivious to the death stares aimed her way. "You two are adorable! I can't believe I almost missed it!"

Vi groaned, dragging a hand down her face. "Sera, for the love of—"

"I mean it!" Seraphine continued, undeterred. "You're like opposites that just work! Like fire and water! No, wait—like thunder and lightning! Oh my gosh, you're like a power couple!"

Loris, finally giving in to the moment, sniffled loudly and nodded. "She's right. It's kind of inspiring. In a really annoying, makes-you-question-your-life-choices kind of way."

Caitlyn and Vi exchanged a glance, their expressions identical: wide-eyed disbelief that these two were real. Then, almost simultaneously, their gazes sharpened, their eyes narrowing even further.

"Out," Vi said, pointing toward the glass door.

Seraphine blinked. "What? Why? We're just—"

"Out!" Caitlyn repeated, her voice clipped, the word ringing with finality.

Loris held up his hands in mock surrender, stepping backward toward the door. "Alright, alright! We're leaving! No need to get violent."

Seraphine pouted, reluctantly following him out. "You're both so grumpy! You're lucky you're cute together."

As the door closed behind them, Vi let out a long sigh, her hand running through her hair. "Why do we keep them around again?"

Caitlyn smirked faintly, turning back to the railing. "Comic relief," she said dryly.

-୨ ୧-

: I Hate Myself, I Want To Party - King Princess

Riven approached the bar where Cassiopeia was hunched over her makeshift lab setup. The air around her seemed thick with tension, like the sharp hiss of a snake just before it struck. Riven stopped a few feet away, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Found anything useful yet?" she asked, mostly calm, betraying none of the unease Cassiopeia's presence always managed to stir. Riven had always found Cass to be a little bit more... unhinged, which makes her an extra level of dangerous than her twin. But she is exceptionately gifted in forensic science given how she is of same age, so Riven had no choice but to enlist her help in this. Desperate times. Never again.

Cassiopeia didn't look up immediately, her delicate fingers working a dropper into a vial. The faint clink of glass punctuated the silence before she finally spoke, her voice smooth and deliberately slow. "You're awfully impatient, Riven," she drawled, her emerald eyes flicking up to meet Riven's with a glint of mischief.

Riven's expression didn't waver. "I don't have time for games, Du Couteau," she said coolly. "Did you figure it out or not?"

Cassiopeia smirked, setting the dropper down. She straightened, brushing an invisible speck of dust off her blouse before tilting her head, her gaze sharp and assessing. "You're always so serious," she mused, her voice dropping into a playful lilt. "I can't tell if that's a charm or a flaw."

Riven's jaw tightened slightly, but she didn't bite. "What. Did. You. Find." I forgot how bloody infuriating this woman can be.

Cassiopeia let out a soft laugh, the sound dripping with amusement. "Fine, fine. You're no fun, you know that?" She reached for a small vial resting delicately on the cluttered bar. Holding it up to the light, her emerald eyes glinted with a mix of fascination and satisfaction. The liquid inside shimmered with an almost hypnotic, deep violet hue, like crushed amethysts dissolved into glass. It wasn't entirely opaque—there was an eerie translucence to it that caught the light in mesmerizing flashes, creating faint streaks of silvery-blue along the edges. Tiny bubbles clung to the surface, rising languidly, as though reluctant to reach the top.

"This," Cassiopeia said, her voice dropping into something softer, more deliberate, "is not your run-of-the-mill party favor. Whoever made it knew exactly what they were doing. The composition is... ingenious. Look at the way it moves." She tilted the vial slightly, watching the liquid roll like quicksilver, its shimmer catching the light in mesmerizing waves.

"It's a synthetic compound," she said, her tone suddenly serious, though the edge of her smile remained. "Not something you'd find on the street." Her lips curved into a faint smirk as she turned the vial toward Riven. "Beautiful, isn't it? Almost makes you forget how dangerous it is."

Riven didn't step closer, her sharp green eyes narrowing as she watched the fluid undulate in Cassiopeia's grip. "Dangerous how?" she asked, her tone curt.

Cassiopeia lowered the vial slightly, cradling it between her fingers as though it were a priceless artifact. "Oh, you know," she said airily."Could be anything. Memory loss, impair judgment… Make people you know, not themselves—perfect for causing a scandal at, say, a party full of children with reputations to protect."

Riven's stomach tightened, but she kept her expression neutral. "Can you trace it?"

Cassiopeia tilted her head, a coy smile spreading across her lips. "Maybe," she said, drawing out the word. "If you ask nicely."

Riven's green eyes narrowed. "Do it," she said flatly, ignoring the bait.

Cassiopeia chuckled, clearly enjoying the lack of reaction. "As you wish," she said with an exaggerated sigh, setting the vial down carefully. "But don't think I'll let you off that easily next time, Riven. You're far too interesting to waste on just work."

Riven didn't respond, her focus already shifting back to the task at hand. She turned away, heading toward the guest rooms. She needed a long-ass cold shower. "Let me know when you have something concrete," she called over her shoulder.

Cassiopeia watched her go, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "Oh, I will," she murmured to herself, her voice low and amused.

Riven walked briskly toward the guest rooms. She wasn't entirely sure what irritated her more—Cassiopeia's infuriating smirk or the fact that her own thoughts were starting to spin. Either way, she needed a change. Of clothes, of focus, of... everything. A long cold shower and something more casual for clothes would do her good.

The hallway leading to the guest rooms was quieter than she expected, the sounds of cleanup fading as she moved farther from the main areas. But as she rounded a corner, her steps slowed, her eyes narrowing as she caught sight of two figures up ahead.

Seraphine and Loris.

The two of them were practically glued to the glass doors that opened onto the balcony. Their faces were pressed close, their noses nearly smudging the glass as they stared with wide, exaggerated eyes. Riven stopped, her arms folding instinctively across her chest. She didn't need to ask to know what—or rather, who—they were gawking at. Riven followed their line of sight and spotted Caitlyn and Vi standing on the balcony. The late afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the scene, highlighting the way their heads were close, their postures relaxed but intimate. Whatever they were talking about, it was clearly important enough to hold their full attention. The moment was so... quiet. Private.

And here were Seraphine and Loris, looking like a pair of overzealous cartoon characters on the verge of tears. Riven let out a long, quiet sigh. "What the hell are you two doing?"

Seraphine jumped, spinning around with a gasp, clutching her chest as though Riven had startled the life out of her. "Riven! We were just... appreciating!"

"Appreciating," Riven repeated flatly, her eyes narrowing.

Loris, who had been leaning dramatically against the wall like some kind of theater extra, straightened up with an exaggerated huff. "Yes, appreciating," he said, his tone defensive but dripping with theatrical flair. He crossed his arms, throwing Riven a pointed look. "Something you wouldn't understand, obviously."

Riven arched an eyebrow, her expression unchanging. "Appreciating what, exactly?"

Seraphine clutched Loris's arm, her wide eyes shimmering with an intensity that could only come from her overactive imagination. "The moment, Riven," she said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "The love, the connection, the sheer... depth of their emotions."

Loris nodded solemnly, though his expression quickly twisted into a smirk. "Not that you'd recognize any of that," he said, his voice dripping with mock pity. "I mean, do you even have emotions, or are you just programmed to scowl at everyone who breathes near you?"

Riven's eyes narrowed further, her lips pressing into a thin line. "…I feel plenty. I feel like I'm about two seconds away from throwing both of you off this balcony," she said, her voice low. What on holy earth is happening? "I feel like I'm surrounded by idiots. Now move. You're embarrassing yourselves."

Seraphine gasped, clutching Loris tighter. "It's art, Riven. Pure, raw emotion. Look at them! The tension, the love, the connection—it's like a masterpiece in motion."

Riven stared at them, her patience hanging by a thread. "You two are ridiculous."

"It's beautiful," Seraphine insisted, tears welling up in her eyes. "They're like a poem!"

"They're like a headache," Riven muttered, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Step away from the glass before they catch you staring."

"But—"

"Now."

Seraphine and Loris reluctantly peeled themselves away from the glass doors, casting one last wistful glance at the balcony before shuffling off, muttering under their breath about Riven's lack of imagination and general grumpiness.

Riven exhaled sharply, shaking her head as she turned back toward the guest rooms. Unbelievable, she thought, her lips twitching into the faintest smirk despite herself. She might have been surrounded by idiots, but at least it was never boring.

-୨ ୧-

Yunarin lay sprawled on the impossibly soft bed, staring up at the ornate ceiling that seemed to mock her with its pristine symmetry. Her heart was still racing, and no matter how tightly she clenched the blanket around her body, she couldn't stop the rush of memories from flooding her mind.

She'd slipped out of the party room, away from Cassiopeia's snake-like gaze that seemed to strip her bare with every passing glance. It wasn't the kind of bare she was already dealing with. No, that humiliation was reserved for the state she'd woken up in that morning—half-naked, tangled in sheets, with Riven lying beside her. Riven.

Yuna groaned, pressing the heels of her palms against her eyes as if she could somehow erase the image. Not because it was unpleasant—God, no—but because it was too much. Too intense. She groaned again, rolling onto her stomach and pressing her face deeper into the pillow. "Sleep," she muttered to herself. "Just sleep. Forget about it for an hour."

The soft breeze from the balcony carried the faint scent of lavender, and the warmth of the sun began to seep through the heavy weight of her thoughts. Slowly, reluctantly, Yuna's racing heart started to calm. Her body sank deeper into the plush mattress, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. She didn't know if she'd be able to face Riven later. Hell, she didn't even know if she'd be able to face herself. But for now, with her eyes closed and the soft lull of the breeze coaxing her toward sleep, Yuna let herself drift. Even if only for a little while, she could pretend the world outside didn't exist.

-୨ ୧-

Riven pushed the door open with her shoulder, the faint creak barely audible. She stepped inside, her shoes barely making a sound against the thick carpet as her gaze swept over the room. It looked empty enough—she didn't bother to walk further to see if anyone was on the bed.

Not like anyone's here anyway, she thought, exhaling as she peeled off her jacket and let it dangle in her grip. Her shoulders ached, and her neck felt tight, the weight of the day pressing into her muscles and the tension in her neck had only gotten worse after the endless back-and-forth with Cassiopeia and her sly smirks.

A shower first. Think later.

Riven hyperfixed her focus fixed entirely on the bathroom door. She pushed it open, flipping on the light with a faint click. The brightness stung her eyes momentarily, but she blinked it away, tossing her jacket over the edge of the sink before tugging at her dress shoes. The faint sound of water trickling from a leaky faucet filled the bathroom as Riven twisted the shower handle, the sharp, cold spray hitting the tiles with a steady rhythm. She didn't hesitate, stepping under the icy stream fully clothed, her head tilting back as the water poured over her.

The shock was immediate, but she welcomed it. The cold bit at her skin, pulling her back into the present and washing away the heaviness clinging to her thoughts. She'd been off her game since waking up that morning, tangled in sheets and trying to process Yuna's confession. It wasn't like she hadn't known—Yuna was an open book in a lot of ways—but hearing it out loud? That was different. Too real.

Riven ran her hands through her wet hair, exhaling sharply as the water dripped down her face. She hadn't meant to leave Yuna hanging, but what was she supposed to say? What the hell was I supposed to say to something like that? She wasn't good at handling situations like this—at feelings, at relationships, at being anything other than the person people called when things needed fixing. The moment it involved her directly, everything just… falls apart. She could patch up a broken wall, knock down a problem before it got out of hand, or step into a fight and know exactly what to do. But this? This wasn't something she could punch or fix with a wrench.

How the hell did I become so fucking useless…

She let out a low growl, the frustration building in her chest. Yuna deserved better than the mess she was, but somehow, the thought of Yuna pulling away, of not being there—that stung in a way she didn't know how to deal with.

Riven pressed her forehead against the cool tiles, her hands braced against the wall as the water streamed over her. She just needed time to figure it out. To figure herself out. And hopefully, Yuna wouldn't hate her for it in the meantime.

-୨ ୧-

: PLEASE - Omido, Ex Habit

When Loris and Seraphine finally disappeared down the hall, Vi let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. The weight of their constant presence lifted, leaving her and Caitlyn alone in the quiet. But quiet wasn't enough—Vi's hand found Caitlyn's, and without a word, they moved quickly toward their guest room. Privacy was a rare luxury in the chaos of the day, and right now, Vi needed Caitlyn all to herself, no interruptions, no prying eyes.

Vi kicked the door shut behind her, her hand lingering on the knob for a moment before she let out a soft sigh. "I need a shower," she muttered, her voice low and rough. She let out a low sigh, her gaze flicking toward Caitlyn, who was already unbuttoning her blouse. The room felt quieter than it should, the air thick with something she couldn't quite name.

Caitlyn's movements were slow, dragging each button undone. She shrugged the blouse from her shoulders, letting it slide down her arms and pool softly onto the carpet. The curve of her bare back caught the dim light, and Vi couldn't help but let her eyes linger, tracing the lines of muscle and smooth skin. Her throat felt dry, her words stuck somewhere between her chest and her lips.

Caitlyn reached for the waistband of her skirt, her fingers hooking around the fabric. She slid it down slowly, letting the material fall to the floor in one fluid motion. Now fully in her underwear, she stood tall, her confidence radiating in the way she carried herself, as though the moment was entirely hers.

Caitlyn turned her head slightly, glancing over her shoulder with a faint smile that didn't quite reach her eyes but held something softer, something warmer. Her blue gaze locked onto Vi's, and she held it for a moment longer than necessary. "We both do," Caitlyn said finally, her voice low, the edges of her tone curling into something more intimate.

Vi hesitated, her hand rubbing the back of her neck as if trying to distract herself from the sudden heat pooling in her chest. "Yeah, alright," she murmured, her voice quieter than she intended.

Caitlyn reached for the clasp of her bra, as if she were giving Vi the option to look away—or not. Vi didn't. She watched as Caitlyn slipped the straps off her shoulders and let the garment fall to the floor with ease. Her hands moved to the waistband of her panties next, sliding them down her legs until they joined the pile of fabric on the carpet.

Now standing completely bare, Caitlyn straightened and stepped forward with a confidence. She walked past Vi, her movements fluid and purposeful, the faint light from the bathroom casting a soft glow across her skin as she crossed the room. Vi's breath hitched, her eyes trailing after Caitlyn, unable to look away even if she'd wanted to. Fuck me. How can I fucking resist.

Vi swallowed hard, her fingers twitching at her sides. Her usual bravado was nowhere to be found, replaced by a sudden shyness she couldn't quite name. She stood frozen for a moment, the boldness she'd carried the night before, fueled by the haze of alcohol and the reckless confidence it brought, was nowhere to be found now. Damn, booze really does wonders, she thought bitterly. Usually she is the one making the first move, but suddenly now, she's standing there like a deer caught in headlights, completely unsure what to do next.

Caitlyn paused in the doorway, glancing back at her with an almost playful glint in her eyes. "Coming?" she asked, her voice carrying a note of teasing warmth. Vi blinked, dragging herself out of her daze.

"Yeah," she muttered, her lips quirking into a faint grin. "Yeah, I'm coming." She hesitated for only a second longer before reaching for the hem of her tank top, pulling it over her head and tossing it aside in one fluid motion. Her shoes followed, landing with a dull thud against the floor, and then her loose gray sweatpants, which she kicked into a messy pile by the door. Standing in just her underwear, Vi exhaled slowly, her heart pounding harder than it had any right to. Her boxers were the last to go, leaving her bare as she stepped toward the bathroom.

In the shower, Caitlyn reached for the shower knob, adjusting the water temperature to a comfortable warmth. The sound of running water filled the air, warm steam curling out of the open door and brushing against her skin. Vi paused in the doorway, her gaze briefly catching Caitlyn's silhouette through the frosted glass of the shower. Her throat tightened again, but she shoved the feeling aside, stepping into the bathroom with a deep breath.

"Mind if I join?" she asked, her voice low but steady, though her heart was anything but calm.

Caitlyn's laughter, light and teasing, answered her through the mist. "You're late," Caitlyn called, her tone playful.

Vi couldn't help but grin, the knot in her chest loosening just a little as she stepped inside. Caitlyn reached out and took Vi's hand, leading her into the shower. The water cascaded down over their bodies, the steam rising up around them, creating a cocoon of warmth and intimacy. Caitlyn reached for the soap, her hands glided over Vi's skin. Her touch was tender, careful, like she was savoring every inch of her. Vi closed her eyes, letting herself sink into the warmth of Caitlyn's hands, the intimacy of the moment settling into her chest like a steady rhythm.

Without thinking, Vi reached out, cupping Caitlyn's face in her calloused hands. Their eyes met for a heartbeat before Vi leaned in, pressing her lips to Caitlyn's in a kiss that started soft but deepened quickly. The water streamed down around them, mingling with the heat radiating from their bodies, the world outside slipping away entirely. Caitlyn responded in kind, her hands sliding over Vi's shoulders and down to her hips, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. Their breaths mingled, coming in short, sharp bursts between kisses that grew hungrier, more insistent. Vi felt like she was unraveling, her usual composure replaced with something raw and consuming.

When Caitlyn finally broke the kiss, her lips were flushed, her eyes dark with desire as they locked onto Vi's. She leaned in close, her voice barely more than a whisper but carrying the weight of everything unsaid. "I want you," she murmured, the words laced with both tenderness and fire. "All of you."

Vi's breath caught, her heart hammering in her chest. She wanted this. Wanted Caitlyn. But her mind was blank with a fierce hunger of her own. Instead, she nodded, her eyes locking with Caitlyn's, and leaned in, capturing Caitlyn's lips in another searing kiss. Caitlyn responded immediately, her hands gliding up to cup Vi's face before sliding down to her shoulders, her touch firm yet achingly gentle.

Without breaking the kiss, Caitlyn guided Vi back, her movements steady but purposeful, until Vi felt the cool tiles of the bathroom wall press against her back. Caitlyn's hands pinned her there, one on Vi's hip and the other braced beside her head, effectively trapping her.

Vi felt her body tingling with the thrill of surrender as Caitlyn leaned in closer, her lips trailing from Vi's mouth down to her jawline. Caitlyn's touch was gentle yet firm, exploring without hesitation. Her hands moved over Vi's hips, her fingers skimming along her thighs, tracing every inch of her with a reverence that left Vi breathless.

Vi's head fell back against the wall, her chest heaving as Caitlyn's kisses deepened, trailing lower. Her fingers dug into Caitlyn's shoulders, desperate for some anchor in the overwhelming flood of sensations. "Cait…" Vi gasped, her voice breaking as her body melted under Caitlyn's touch.

Caitlyn pulled back just enough to meet Vi's gaze, her blue eyes dark with an intensity that made Vi's knees weak. "You're mine," Caitlyn whispered, her voice soft but laced with undeniable conviction. Vi's lips parted, a reply forming on the tip of her tongue, but it was swallowed by another kiss—this one deeper, hungrier. Caitlyn left no room for words. The steam curled around them, the water cascading down in rivulets, but all Vi could feel was Caitlyn.

When Caitlyn's fingers brushed against the sensitive skin between Vi's legs, a moan escaped her lips, quiet and trembling, and Caitlyn smiled, her eyes darkening with desire. "Tell me what you want," Caitlyn whispered, her lips brushing against Vi's ear, sending shivers down her spine.

Vi's mind was a haze of want and need, her body screaming for more. But the words wouldn't come. Instead, she reached for Caitlyn, her hands tangling in Cait's wet hair as she pulled her into another kiss, pouring all of her desire into it. Caitlyn's right fingers gently teased Vi's left nipple, while her other hand firmly grasped Vi's waist, keeping her close. Vi let out a deep, satisfied moan into Caitlyn's ear, which only encouraged Caitlyn to lean in closer and take the nipple into her mouth, using her tongue to playfully flick it. Vi's hand, still tangled in Caitlyn's hair, gave a gentle tug, pulling her closer as her own moans grew louder.

With a seductive grin, Caitlyn teased Vi's nipple with her tongue, before sinking her teeth ever so slightly into the soft skin just above the areola, leaving a delicate love bite as a tantalizing memento of this moment. Vi couldn't help but smile at Caitlyn's cute gesture, while Caitlyn bit her lower lip seductively, her eyes filled with desire.

Caitlyn's fingers then dipped lower, delicately exploring Vi's intimate folds. She discovered the sensitive nub of Vi's clit, gently stroking it with the tip of her finger. Vi's body trembled with pleasure, her eyes fluttered shut, her lips parting in a silent gasp as Caitlyn's expert touch sent sparks of ecstasy coursing through her veins.

"My fucking god, Cait," Vi gasped quietly, her voice trembling as her breathing grew heavier. The rawness of Vi's words and the way her voice broke sent a visible shiver through Caitlyn. Her lips curled into a sly smile, her arousal spiking at the sight of Vi's unguarded vulnerability.

"You have no idea how much I love hearing that," Caitlyn murmured, her tone lower now, thick with desire. Her movements grew bolder, more deliberate, as if fueled by the way Vi's body responded to her touch. Her fingers slipped inside Vi, coaxing a cry from her lips as Vi's body arched into the touch. The way Vi's muscles clenched around her fingers, the way her breath hitched and her body trembled, it was all a beautiful symphony of lust and desire. Caitlyn's own arousal grew exponentially, her heart pounding in her chest, her pulse racing. She couldn't help but feel a sense of power, of control, as she continued thrusting into Vi.

"Cait," Vi gasped, her voice trembling with need. "Don't stop."

Caitlyn's lips curved into a smile as she leaned in, her voice a whisper against Vi's skin. "I won't."

Caitlyn's fingers worked her with a rhythm that was both precise and relentless. The water cascaded over them, the heat of the steam cocooning them in a world that felt separate from everything else. "Cait," Vi moaned, her voice trembling, her hands gripping Caitlyn's shoulders for balance. Her knees felt weak, her body trembling with the intensity of it all. Caitlyn's dark eyes locked onto Vi's, her lips parting slightly as she watched the way Vi's body responded to her every movement. Her free hand trailed up Vi's side, tracing the curves of her toned body, eliciting a shiver that had nothing to do with the water temperature. Vi's head fell back against the tile, her breath coming in ragged gasps as Caitlyn's fingers curled inside her, hitting a spot that made her vision blur.

"Fuck," she whimpered, her hips bucking instinctively, seeking more of the delicious friction. "Right there—don't stop, please—"

Caitlyn grinned, her confidence radiating as she leaned in, her lips brushing against Vi's ear. "I told you I wouldn't stop," she whispered, her breath hot against Vi's skin. Her hand moved faster, her fingers thrusting deeper, each movement sending waves of pleasure crashing through Vi's body. Vi's moans grew louder, unrestrained, her fingers digging into Caitlyn's shoulders as she clung to her. Her body was on fire, every nerve alight with sensation. The water streamed down her face, mixing with the sweat on her skin, but she didn't care. All she cared about was Caitlyn—her touch, her voice, the way she made her feel like she was falling apart and being put back together all at once.

Caitlyn's lips trailed down Vi's neck, her teeth grazing the sensitive skin there. Her hand shifted slightly, her thumb circling Vi's clit as her fingers continued their relentless rhythm. The dual sensation was too much, and Vi cried out, her body arching toward Caitlyn's like a moth drawn to a flame.

"Cait—I—oh god—" Vi's words dissolved into incoherent gasps as the pressure inside her built to a breaking point. Her legs quivered, her entire body tensing as the pleasure consumed her. And then Caitlyn bit down lightly on Vi's collarbone, and it was enough to send her over. Vi's world exploded in a burst of white-hot ecstasy, her body convulsing as the orgasm ripped through her with a force that left her breathless. She sobbed Caitlyn's name, her nails leaving faint marks on her shoulders as she clung to her, afraid she might collapse if she let go.

Caitlyn held her through it, her movements slowing as she guided Vi through the waves of aftershocks. "That's it," she whispered, her voice soothing now, her lips pressing gentle kisses to Vi's neck. Vi's body sagged against Caitlyn's, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. Her mind was a haze of pleasure and exhaustion, her limbs heavy and uncoordinated. She leaned into Caitlyn's touch, her forehead resting against her shoulder as the water washed over them both.

"Holy fuck, Cait," she breathed, her voice hoarse. "That…was… incredible."

Caitlyn giggled softly, the sound light and warm against the steam-filled air. She pressed another kiss to Vi's temple, her fingers brushing gently along her back. "I just wanted to try something new," she murmured, a hint of playful pride lacing her tone. "I think I like dominating you a little bit too much."

Vi let out a breathless laugh, her arms tightening around Caitlyn's waist as she leaned heavily against her. "You're full of surprises, aren't you?"

Caitlyn smiled, her hand tracing soothing patterns along Vi's damp skin. "I like keeping you on your toes," she teased but keeping her gaze soft. I'm in love with you, Vi.

-୨ ୧-

: don't worry babe - Ex Habit

Riven caught her reflection in the foggy mirror, tilting her head slightly as her gaze swept over her frame. Broad shoulders, strong arms, lean legs—her body wasn't shaped by leisurely gym sessions or sports played for fun. It was the kind of strength built out of necessity, from a life spent learning to stand her ground too early and too hard. The faint scars scattered across her tanned skin were persistent reminders, pale lines etched by scraped knees, roughhousing gone too far, and fights she still wasn't proud of.

Her eyes lingered on the reflection longer than she liked. That familiar pang settled in her chest, the one she couldn't quite shake, no matter how many years had passed. She'd always been grateful—grateful that the patriarch of the Konte family had seen something in her back then. He'd plucked her out of chaos, told her she was more than the scrappy, angry kid she'd been. He called it potential, and maybe he'd been right. Without him, she wouldn't be standing here now. She wouldn't have clawed her way into this strange life that felt so far removed from where she'd started.

And yet, there were days, like now, when she still felt like that kid—out of place, scrambling to prove herself, constantly aware of how little she fit into the mold of what a Konte heir should be. What am I even doing here? she thought bitterly, dragging a hand through her damp hair. The family had given her everything—a name, a chance, a future—but it still felt like wearing a jacket two sizes too big. No matter how much she wanted to make them proud, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was just playing a role she wasn't made for.

With a sharp exhale, Riven turned from the mirror and pushed the bathroom door open. The cooler air of the guest room brushed against her damp skin, making her shiver. She needed clothes—something comfortable, something to replace the vulnerability she always felt after a shower. Her bare feet moved soundlessly across the plush carpet as she made her way to the open closet on the far wall. Her green eyes scanned the unfamiliar options provided for guests, her hand hovering over a folded sweatshirt when a soft sound broke the quiet.

A sigh.

Riven froze, her fingers suspended mid-air as her gaze snapped to the bed. She hadn't checked the room when she'd walked in. She hadn't thought to. Her chest tightened as her eyes landed on the figure tangled in the sheets.

Yunarin.

She was lying there, her face pressed against the pillow, her chest rising and falling in an even rhythm. Her hair spilled in soft waves around her, the picture of peace in the otherwise still room.

Wait—when did she get here?

Riven's breath hitched as the realization hit her like a sucker punch. Was she here the whole damn time? Her mind scrambled to piece it together, but the weight of her own obliviousness dragged her down. Fuck. I should've checked the room. Why didn't I fucking check the room? Her jaw clenched, and her fingers curled tighter around the edge of the closet door. So stupid. So goddamn stupid. She was here, and I didn't even notice.

Her face flushed as she rubbed the back of her neck, trying to shake the rising tide of embarrassment. Her gaze darted back to Yuna, still fast asleep, completely unaware of Riven's internal meltdown. She's just... here, Riven thought, still in shock. And I didn't even think to look. What if she'd woken up? What if— She cut the thought off with a sharp exhale, running her hand down her face. She forced her eyes away, focusing on the clothes in front of her.

God, you make everything so much harder, she thought, but there was no edge to it. No heat.

With a sharp shake of her head, Riven pulled the sweatshirt from the closet and held it against her chest. She turned her back on the bed, her shoulders tense as she tried to steady herself. Next time, you idiot, check the damn room. But even as she scolded herself, her gaze flickered toward Yuna's peaceful form one last time before she moved to get dressed.

Pulling the sweatshirt over her head, Riven felt the fabric cling awkwardly to her still-damp skin before settling into place. It was a size too big and clearly designed for someone broader, but that only made it more comfortable. The faint scent of detergent and unfamiliarity reminded her that she was still a guest here, borrowing whatever was available. She tugged at the hem, trying to make it sit right, her thoughts swirling as she adjusted to the oversized fit.

The pants were next—loose, plain gray sweatpants she'd found folded neatly in the closet. They weren't exactly her style, but they worked, and she slipped them on over her black briefs with a sigh. The waistband rested low on her hips, the legs pooling slightly at her ankles. She fidgeted with the drawstring for a moment before tying it into a messy knot, more out of habit than necessity.

Male clothes again, she thought absently, brushing a damp strand of silver-white hair out of her face. It wasn't like she minded—far from it. She preferred the simplicity of it, the practicality. Female clothes had never held much appeal, even though she knew she could pull them off if she wanted to. She'd heard it enough times from others: Just grow out your hair a little, Riven. Try a dress for once. You'd look great if you just put in some effort.

The memory made her jaw tighten slightly, a familiar mix of annoyance and dismissal bubbling to the surface. What does that even mean—put in some effort? she thought, tugging the sleeves of the sweatshirt down over her wrists. Why does it have to be about how I look?

It wasn't that she hated the idea of feminine clothes. She just… didn't care about them. Dresses, skirts, tight jeans—none of it felt like her. It never had. She remembered trying once, back when she was younger, to see if it might make her feel different, make her fit into whatever box people expected her to. It hadn't.

This feels better, she thought, flexing her hands at her sides as she glanced down at herself. The sweatshirt hung loose on her frame, the sweatpants sitting comfortably around her waist. It wasn't stylish, but it was her. Practical. Her fingers brushed against the drawstring of the sweatpants again, a small frown tugging at the corners of her mouth. She knew she could make an effort if she wanted to. She could grow out her hair, style it into something girly and elegant, throw on a fitted dress and heels, and turn heads if she cared to. But she didn't. She never had.

Not my thing, she decided, letting the thought drift away. She'd always felt more comfortable like this—she didn't need anything else. Her green eyes flicked toward the bed where Yuna still slept, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. For a moment, Riven felt the faintest tug of self-consciousness. Would Yuna care? Did she notice things like that?

No, Riven told herself firmly, her jaw tightening. I mean… we made out. Why is this even a question.

She moved to sit in the armchair by the window, dropping into it with a sigh. The oversized clothes felt warm and heavy against her damp skin, grounding her in a way she didn't expect. Crossing her arms over her chest, she let her head tilt back slightly, her gaze drifting to the ceiling as she tried to clear her mind.

Her green eyes fluttered shut as she exhaled deeply, her muscles relaxing against the chair's plush cushions. The soft, even rhythm of Yuna's breaths filled the space, lulling Riven into a sense of calm she wasn't used to. She let her head tilt to the side, her damp hair brushing against the back of the chair as her body sank further into the cushions. The sound wrapped around her like a cocoon, warm and quiet, pulling her into a stillness she hadn't felt in what seemed like forever. Before she realized it, her own breathing matched Yuna's, her chest rising and falling in time with the quiet rhythm.

As sleep finally claimed her, her last thought was a simple one: I could get used to this.

: Under My Skin - Claudia Kane

Riven sank deeper into the haze of the dream, though to her, it didn't feel like a dream at all. She wasn't sure how it started, but now she was here, on the bed, hovering over Yuna as if it were the most natural place to be. The heat of Yuna's body pressed against hers, seeping into her skin and igniting a slow, smoldering fire that sent a shiver through her, grounding her in a way that felt dangerously intimate. Fuck, I've never wanted anyone this badly in my entire life.

Yuna lay beneath her, her dark hair splayed out across the pillow like a halo. Her skin glowed softly, catching the dim, ambient light, and her deep brown eyes locked onto Riven's with an expression that sent a shiver down her spine. She looks like everything I shouldn't want, but fuck if I don't want to devour her right here and now. Her hands trembled against the mattress as her gaze wandered down, taking in the way Yuna's lips parted slightly, her chest rising and falling with each slow breath. I shouldn't, Riven thought, her body taut with tension, but fuck, I want her. I want her so bad it hurts. And Riven couldn't decide if she wanted to pull back or let it consume her entirely. She decided the latter.

Her silver-white hair fell forward, framing her face as her green eyes darted across Yuna's features—every detail felt sharper than it should, as if the world outside this moment had melted away. Yuna's hands moved first, sliding up to rest gently on Riven's waist. The touch was light, almost hesitant, but it sent a rush of heat through Riven's body that left her breathless. Her hands twitched against the mattress, and she swallowed hard, trying to steady the pounding of her heart. Fuck, she knows exactly what she's doing, Riven thought, swallowing hard as her heart hammered in her chest, heat pooling low in her belly. Every breath was heavier, more ragged, as Yuna's touch burned through her, and it took everything Riven had not to lose herself completely in the pull of her body against hers. Riven's fingers curled into the sheets, her self-control fraying with every second she stayed this close. I'm not gonna survive this—I don't even want to.

"Riven," Yuna whispered, her voice low and breathy, the sound wrapping around Riven like a soft tether. God, the way she says my name— Riven's gaze snapped to Yuna's lips, and her body moved instinctively, lowering slightly as her nose brushed against Yuna's. Their breaths mingled in the small space between them, the tension so thick it was almost unbearable.

"Are you sure?" Riven asked, her voice barely above a whisper. She didn't even know where the question came from, but the words spilled out before she could stop them.

Yuna smiled faintly, her eyes soft and unwavering. "Never been more sure," she murmured, her hands tightening slightly on Riven's waist as if to pull her closer.

That was all the permission Riven needed. And Riven didn't wait.

Her lips crashed into Yuna's, the kiss deep and all-consuming, her movements driven by a raw, guttural hunger that burned through her like wildfire. She devoured Yuna's mouth, her tongue tangling with hers in a rhythm that was both frantic and desperate. Yuna responded instantly, her body arching up against Riven's, her hands sliding from Riven's waist to her back, pulling her closer with an urgency that made Riven's head spin.

Riven's weight settled fully against Yuna, her knees pressing into the mattress on either side of Yuna's hips, their bodies flush as if closing every inch of space between them wasn't enough. Her hands, no longer bracing on the mattress, moved to Yuna's sides, tracing the gentle curve of her waist with a touch that was equal parts reverent and desperate.

The quiet, breathy moan that escaped Yuna's lips sent a jolt of raw heat straight through Riven, igniting something primal as her grip on Yuna's waist tightened instinctively, pulling their bodies closer. Yuna arched further into Riven's touch, her fingers tangled in Riven's hair, pulling her closer as she gasped against her lips, the sound swallowed by the intensity of their kiss.

Yuna's hands moved again, one sliding into Riven's hair, tugging gently but insistently, while the other pressed against the small of her back. The sensations were overwhelming, the heat between them building with every whispered name, every soft gasp.

Riven's lips trailed from Yuna's mouth to her jaw, then lower, pressing against the curve of her neck. She felt Yuna's body shift beneath her, her legs brushing against Riven's as her hands roamed, exploring the planes of Riven's back.

"Riven, I—" Yuna gasped, her voice hitching as Riven's lips brushed against the sensitive spot just below her ear. The sound sent a jolt through Riven, her heart pounding as Yuna's fingers tightened in her hair, tugging her closer. Riven responded instinctively, tilting her head as her lips trailed a slow, deliberate path along the curve of Yuna's jaw. Each soft touch ignited a fire beneath her skin, her breath warm against Yuna's cheek as she moved closer, her lips brushing against the corner of Yuna's mouth in a moment of quiet hesitation.

Their breaths mingled, warm and uneven—Riven's chest rose and fell in rhythm with Yuna's, the rapid thrum of her heartbeat drowning out everything else. Finally, Riven pressed her forehead gently against Yuna's, their noses just grazing as her breath came in short, ragged gasps. She closed her eyes for a brief moment, her hands still resting on Yuna's sides, her body trembling as she fought to steady herself against the weight of the moment.

"I don't deserve this," she whispered, her voice cracking under the weight of the admission.

Yuna cupped Riven's face, forcing her to meet her gaze. "You deserve everything," she murmured before capturing Riven's lips once more.

Riven's eyes snapped open, her chest rising and falling as she tried to catch her breath. The guest room came into focus—the muted light, the faint scent of lavender, and the weight of her racing heart.

Riven froze, her body stiffening as her mind scrambled to reconcile what had just happened. Her hands flexed at her sides, the phantom sensations from the dream still lingering on her skin. She swallowed hard, her green eyes darting between an empty bed and the floor.

What the hell was that? she thought, her jaw tightening as heat crept up her neck. She rubbed the back of her neck, her gaze dropping to the carpet as she tried to steady her breathing. It took her maybe five more seconds, her mind still a haze of lingering sensations and confusion, before the realization hit her like a slap.

The bed was empty.

Empty.

Her heart skipped, and her eyes darted to the now-crumpled sheets. Where the fuck did she go?

END OF CHAPTER EIGHTEEN