Archive of Our Own

Vi's teeth chattered as she drew Caitlyn's dry hunting coat more tightly around her.

The coat, while certainly warm, was tailored to her girlfriend’s narrower, taller frame. Rather than attempting to force one of her more muscular shoulders through the arm holes, Vi had settled for keeping it cloaked over herself like a makeshift blanket. It fell to just below her knees.

Her own sopping wet coat was clutched in Caitlyn's hand, as her other fiddled with the keys to the apartment.

Vi lifted the collar up to her nose. Subtly sniffing Caitlyn's perfume as she had been doing the entire drive over. Lilac, the familiar scent was comforting. A stark contrast to the discomfort of her soaked clothing and enduring Caitlyn's erratic driving the entire trip back.

The dunking she'd taken thanks to Bruno doing little to stem the words streaming out of her mouth. A continuous monologue as they stood in front of the door to Caitlyn's apartment. .

"Then-" Vi stuttered between shaky teeth, "then, he just pulled me in!" Vi continued jerkily as her body shook. "It wasn't even two feet- achoo- two feet of water! Unbelievable!" Vi ranted as Caitlyn hummed in acknowledgement. She'd already heard the story on the drive over from the rifle club. Multiple renditions of the tale serving as the backdrop to the ride.

She twisted Vi around and reached into the inside pocket of her hunting coat as Vi continued talking. Pulling out the keys to her apartment with swift fingers. Vi paid her no mind, continuing to ramble, as her entire body shivered from the action of unwinding the coat. Caitlyn apologised softly though it went unheard. Quickly fixing the coat and hurriedly opening the door.

"And oh god, my shirt. All those people… They saw everything… Your mother!" Caitlyn hummed, briefly glancing down at where Vi's abs would be, had her coat not obscured them, as she yanked Vi inside.

"They didn't seem to mind." Caitlyn commented as she pulled Vi into her bedroom and plopped her on the bed.

Caitlyn's room was dark thankfully. Vi glanced the blackout curtains she had finally managed to install with a sense of pride. Worth it, she thought, her head had already been aching from the morning light on the drive over. Hours of fiddling to balance the curtain rod 'just right' under Caitlyn's watchful gaze had come to fruition.

"That's so embarrassing." Vi groaned through chattering teeth as she flopped onto her back and stared at the ceiling. Bouncing a little on the bed with the movement and kicking her feet in the air uselessly.

Caitlyn tutted. "You have nothing to be embarrassed of," Caitlyn responded as she exited the room to the ensuite. The light clicked on leaving the bedroom illuminated only by the light of the bathroom. "I would know!" She called from the bathroom as Vi heard water begin to run.

Despite her embarrassment, Vi preened at the compliment, smiling up at the ceiling of Caitlyn’s bedroom. “My humiliation is severe and unending!” She called and grinned dopily as giggles sounded from the bathroom, accompanying the sounds of trickling water.

Vi had always found the sound of running water calming...

Her breathing began to slow and her eyes started drooping. Now that she had a soft bed underneath her the residual sickness and tiredness from the morning was overwhelming her.

Her eyes closed for what must only be five minutes when the sound of her girlfriend's voice has them blinking open again. Slightly disoriented and confused.

"No, Vi wake up." Vi sighs, as a hand encircles her wrist pulling her to sit up.

"It's late Cait. Don’t worry, I'll make sweet love to you tomorrow." Vi yawns, with a smarmy grin. It's seductive impact is lessened when her eyes fall shut again.

"It's ten am." Caitlyn deadpans as she slides her coat off Vi's broad shoulders, tossing it onto the bed.

Caitlyn unbuttoned her shirt before kneeling down and unlacing Vi's boots. She then moved her hands to Vi's waist and Vi grinned as she eyed Caitlyn's face knowingly.

"Well if you insist." She waggled her eyebrows only for her attempt at charm to get cut off by the sneeze she let out immediately following the sentence.

Caitlyn rolled her eyes whilst unbuttoning Vi's trousers, "At least your sickness hasn't taken your sense of humour with it."

Vi laughed lightly as Caitlyn straightened. Her fingers slid the shirt from Vi's shoulders. "I seem to recall a note that arrived with these very trousers," Vi remind her with a finger tapping at her chin in thought. "'I can't wait to take these off you…'Ring any bells?" She recited in a poor imitation of Caitlyn's accent.

That drew a small smirk from Caitlyn, "Did you like that touch?" Vi nodded rapidly, "Well, unfortunately circumstances have changed. Because my girlfriend decided to dive headfirst into white water rapids to rescue a drowning baker."

Vi's smile slid from her face, "Damn Bruno."

Caitlyn smiled as she slid the shirt from Vi's shoulders. Her expression fell into a frown as she watched them begin to shake when exposed to the cold air of her bedroom. Her hand reached up to cradle Vi's face as she stroked a finger over Vi's cheekbone. "Come, I ran you a bath."

Vi stood and the trousers fell comically to pool at her ankles, she glanced down bemused. Caitlyn giggled, her hand encircling Vi's wrist pulling her to step out of the damp trousers and follow her to the bathroom.

Vi pushed Caitlyn's shoulder lightly as they moved into the bathroom. "Hold up."

Caitlyn turned to see Vi stripping off her underwear, the last items of clothing still on her body. She dropped them neatly on top of the pile Caitlyn had made in the corner of the room, before padding over to the tub.

Vi eased herself into the steaming water with a sigh of relief. Her body sinking until the water reached her collarbone. "Oh, this is nice," she mumbled, eyes falling closed as the warmth began to seep into her chilled bones.

After a moment, she cracked one eye open to look at Caitlyn who was still standing beside the tub. "Not joining me? I'm literally naked."

Caitlyn hesitated, glancing down at her own clothes and back to Vi's naked form. She bit her lip as she debated sacrificing her health for her naked girlfriend.

Vi raised a challenging eyebrow. "What? Scared of a little bacteria soup?"

At that, Caitlyn scoffed, her decision made as she shook her head. "I think I'll pass, I'll simply experience your nakedness from afar." She slid down to sit on the tile floor, resting her back against the porcelain tub.

"Suit yourself." Vi sniffed offended, catching a whiff of the fragrant steam rising from the water. "Is this lavender?"

Caitlyn nodded, her head tilting back to rest against the edge of the tub. "It'll be good for your sinuses."

Vi sank deeper into the tub, letting the hot water engulf her shoulders completely. A soft sigh escaped her lips as the warmth penetrated her aching muscles. It had been so long since someone had taken care of her like this when she was sick. The last time... Well, the last time had been when Vander was around. Before everything had changed.

The memory caught in her throat unexpectedly. Vander had been gruff about it, but he'd always made sure she had hot soup and extra blankets when she caught the winter chill. VI loved his soup. Something about Caitlyn's quiet attentiveness felt so similar.

Vi reached out, her wet hand fumbling for Caitlyn's shoulder. Her fingers left damp marks on Caitlyn's blouse as she gave it a gentle squeeze.

Caitlyn swatted her hand away with a playful tut. "You're getting me all wet."

Instead of letting go completely, Caitlyn reached up and intertwined their fingers. Letting their joined hands rest on the edge of the tub. The simple gesture made Vi's chest tighten.

Vi bit her lip, hesitating. She knew how Caitlyn would respond, but the words had been sitting heavy on her chest since they'd left the rifle club.

"I'm sorry I ruined the clothes... and the hunt," she sighed, her voice unusually small.

Caitlyn twisted around, her eyes finding Vi's in the steamy bathroom. The genuine concern in those blue eyes made Vi sink further into the bubbles. Suddenly feeling exposed in a way that had nothing to do with her nakedness.

"Don't be ridiculous," Caitlyn said firmly. "You didn't ruin anything." She paused, tilting her head up thoughtfully. "Well, perhaps the clothes are ruined, but I blame the baker for that. Not you."

Caitlyn turned her body fully to face Vi. Resting her chin on the edge of the tub. Vi sighed deeply, her breath creating ripples across the lavender scented water.

"I know, but it was supposed to be your family tradition," Vi said, her voice small and dejected. "It only comes round once a year, and I end up sick and then I mess up."

Caitlyn was frowning now. Her brow furrowed as she watched Vi sink deeper into both the bathwater and her self reproach. She reached up, her fingers brushing a damp strand of pink hair from Vi's forehead.

"You jumped into freezing water to save a man's life," she said softly, her voice filled with nothing but admiration. "That's not messing up, Vi. That's being extraordinary."

Vi scoffed. "You know that's not what happened. It was a puddle. He yanked me in!"

Caitlyn waved her off, her lip quirking, amused. "Semantics."

Vi splashed a little in protest, careful not to actually coat Caitlyn in her bacterial soup water. "The fact you offered him your arm after everything speaks to your character. Besides, I'm sure mother is already running with his version of the story as we speak. You'll be the talk of Piltover high society for a week or so until they find their next victim."

Vi felt warmth spread through her chest that had nothing to do with the bath water. She opened her mouth to argue but was interrupted by a sudden fit of sneezing. When she recovered, Caitlyn was giving her a look that was somehow both sympathetic and smug.

"Though I will say," Caitlyn added, "heroics do come with consequences.”

Vi nodded, looking slightly miserable, like a wet cat. The water was starting to cool slightly, and Caitlyn moved on her knees to shuffle behind her at the head of the tub. She began to wash Vi's hair, working her fingers through the wet pink strands.

"I'd much rather a man drown than to see you sick like this." Caitlyn said matter-of-factly as she massaged soap into Vi's scalp.

Vi squinted her eyes up at Caitlyn to prevent the suds from getting in them. She searched Caitlyn's face, which betrayed no amusement, suggesting her words were true.

"You scare me sometimes," Vi said, half joking but with an undercurrent of genuine treipidation.

Caitlyn merely hummed, smoothing her fingers through Vi's hair. "Tilt your head back," she instructed softly, reaching for a cup to rinse the suds away.

The remainder of the day was spent with Caitlyn doting on Vi.

After the bath, Caitlyn had bundled her into fresh set of borrowed pyjamas. Tucking her into bed with all the determination of a field medic treating their most important patient. Force-feeding a spoon of cold medicine to her and instructing her, with quite intense eyes, not to even attempt a trip to the gym. Vi had simply nodded tiredly from her prison under one of Caitlyn's weighted blankets. She had promptly fallen into a deep sleep, only waking in the late afternoon.

Vi could feel how her body ached as she tried to sit up in the bed. The medicine had worn off over the course of the day, leaving her feeling groggy and sore. Still, she was definitely feeling better than when she had first arrived back.

When Caitlyn came in to check on her, Vi automatically reached for her, wanting to pull her into bed for some late afternoon entertainment.

"No," Caitlyn said firmly, dodging Vi's grabbing hands. "You need to stay in bed and rest."

Vi pouted, flopping back against the pillows with a dramatic sigh. "But I'm bored," she whined, though her scratchy voice somewhat undermined the effect.

Caitlyn's eyes softened as she perched on the edge of the bed. "I know," she said, pressing a cool hand to Vi's forehead. "But your fever only just broke last night, and I won't have you relapsing, nor infecting me, because you're 'bored.'"

Vi huffed but couldn't deny that even this small conversation had her brain feeling exhausted again.

"How about this," Caitlyn offered, straightening the blankets around Vi with a determined expression. "You stay in bed, and I'll make you a traditional Piltover lunch. Something to help you regain your strength."

Vi raised an eyebrow skeptically. "You're going to cook? For me?" She couldn't keep the amusement from her voice.

Caitlyn stiffened slightly. "I'm perfectly capable of preparing a simple beans on toast," she said, in a tone that suggested she was trying to convince herself as much as Vi.

Vi shrugged, too tired to argue. "Alright, cupcake. Beans on toast it is..." Vi shuddered a little but played it off as residual shivers from her sickness. Caitlyn didn't buy it and her eyes narrowed.

With a determined nod, Caitlyn left the bedroom, closing the door behind her with a soft click. Vi settled back against the pillows, listening as Caitlyn moved around the kitchen.

At first, the sounds were innocuous enough...

The opening and closing of cupboards, the clatter of dishes being set on the counter. But then came the first crash, followed by Caitlyn's muffled curse.

Vi sat up straighter, straining to hear what was happening. More concerning noises followed. The unmistakable sound of something metal hitting the floor, and was that... glass breaking?

"Oh, you useless bloody piece of-"

"Cait?" Vi called out, her voice still raspy. "Everything okay out there?"

"Fine!" came the strained reply. "Everything's fine! Stay in bed!"

Vi reluctantly sank back into the pillows, trying to ignore the chorus from the kitchen. But when the bitter smell of burning began to waft under the door. Her concern overrode Caitlyn's instructions.

Wrapping a blanket around her shoulders, Vi padded down the hallway toward what sounded like a disaster zone. Vi was never one to run from danger. She pushed open the kitchen door and stopped dead in her tracks.

The pristine kitchen that Vi had come to associate with Caitlyn's orderly nature was nowhere to be seen. In its place was what looked like the aftermath of a small explosion. Butter smeared every surface, shredded cheese littered the counter.

What horrified Vi the most was the pot on the stove was bubbling over with what appeared to be a glutinous, bean-like substance...

Vi pulled the blanket more securely around herself at the sight of the sludge.

In the centre of it all was Caitlyn, hunched over the sink. Her hair falling out of its usual neat style, a smudge of what might have been bean juice across one cheek. As Vi stood frozen in the doorway, Caitlyn glanced up and met her eyes with an expression of pure defeat.

At that exact moment, the toaster behind her gave an alarming pop. Two completely blackened slices of bread shot up amidst a cloud of smoke.

For a long moment, they simply stared at each other, the smoke detector choosing that moment to begin its shrill warning.

Caitlyn's shoulders slumped. "I've ordered Jericho's," she stated solemnly, her voice barely audible over the alarm.

Vi nodded seriously, fighting the urge to laugh at the absurdity of the situation. "Good call!" she managed, before slowly backing away from the kitchen disaster zone and retreating to the safety of the bedroom.

She sensed Caitlyn needed some space.

Once the door was safely closed behind her, Vi buried her face in a pillow and let the snort of laughter she'd been holding back spill out. The image of Caitlyn, her perfect, composed Caitlyn, standing defeated in a kitchen wasteland fresh in her mind.

By the time Caitlyn joined her fifteen minutes later, having silenced the smoke detector and presumably done some damage control in the kitchen, Vi had managed to compose herself.

"Not a word," Caitlyn warned as she crawled onto the bed beside Vi, though there was a hint of a smile playing at her lips.

Vi mimed locking her lips and throwing away the key, but couldn't resist adding, "So... traditional Piltover lunch, huh?"

Caitlyn groaned, burying her face in Vi's shoulder. "It was my grandmother's recipe. It's supposed to be simple."

"I'm sure it would have been delicious," Vi said diplomatically, squeezing Caitlyn more tightly in her arms.

"It was a disaster," Caitlyn admitted, her voice muffled against Vi's shoulder. "I don't know how I managed to fail at toast."

Vi pressed a kiss to the top of Caitlyn's head. "It's actually more impressive, if you think about it."

Caitlyn pinched her side in retaliation, but snuggled closer. "The delivery should be here in twenty minutes," she said with a sigh.

"Perfect," Vi murmured, content to hold Caitlyn while they waited. "You know, I've never had someone try to burn down a kitchen for me before. It's kind of romantic."

Boxing day came to a close with Vi's stomach fully sated by the inordinate amount of food Caitlyn had deemed necessary to order from Jericho's.

Once fed, Vi had promptly been ushered back into bed by her girlfriend. Vi couldn't help but smile at Caitlyn's fussing. She moved around the bedroom with purpose. Arranging pillows, adjusting blankets, and periodically pressing the back of her hand to Vi's forehead. The hand always accompanied with a concerned frown.

"You know," Vi said, voice slightly raspy, "you'd make a terrifying nurse."

Caitlyn paused in the middle of arranging a fresh box of tissues on the nightstand. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means," Vi reached out to catch Caitlyn's wrist, tugging her closer to the bed, "that I've never seen someone so determined to hydrate another human being."

Caitlyn's lips twitched with amusement. "Hydration is important when you're unwell. As is rest." She gently extracted herself from Vi's grip and reached for the bottle of medicine on the nightstand.

"You don't have to worry about me. I'm perfectly capable of-" Vi's protest was cut short by a coughing fit that left her slumped back against the pillows.

"You were saying?" Caitlyn raised an eyebrow as she measured out a dose of cold medicine into a small cup.

Vi accepted defeat with a groan, taking the medicine when offered. "This stuff makes me loopy," she complained, but swallowed it anyway.

"Good," Caitlyn said, taking the empty cup. "Perhaps it will keep you in bed where you belong."

True to Vi's prediction, the cold medicine hit her system like a freight train. Within an hour, she was floating in a pleasant haze. Bundled under Caitlyn's weighted blanket with a small fortress of tissues building up around her.

As the evening wore on, Vi drifted in and out of a medicine-induced sleep. She was vaguely aware of Caitlyn moving around the apartment. Occasionally coming to force more fluids into her or simply sit beside the bed with a book open in her lap.

At one point, Vi woke to find Caitlyn sitting on the edge of the bed, a steaming mug in her hands.

"Tea?" Vi asked hopefully.

Caitlyn shook her head. "Honey lemon water. Good for your throat."

Vi made a face but accepted the mug anyway. "You're very pushy," she observed, but there was no real complaint in her tone.

"Someone has to be," Caitlyn replied. "Left to your own devices, you'd probably be at the gym right now."

Vi couldn't exactly argue with that. Instead, she sipped at the honey lemon concoction, which was actually quite soothing on her raw throat.

"How are you feeling?" Caitlyn asked, her hand coming to rest on Vi's knee over the blanket.

Vi considered the question. Her head still felt stuffed with cotton, her throat was scratchy, and her nose was running like a faucet, but... "Better," she decided. "Much better than I would be if I was alone."

Something soft passed over Caitlyn's face then, a tenderness that made Vi's chest ache in a way that had nothing to do with her cold. "You're never alone anymore, Vi," she said simply.

The weight of those words settled around Vi like another blanket, warm and secure. She wanted to say something meaningful in return, but the medicine was making her thoughts slippery. All that came out was, "Your eyes are really pretty, cerulean orbs..."

Caitlyn laughed, the sound bright and clear. "You know I hate that word" She took the now-empty mug from Vi's hands. "Get some more rest."

Vi wanted to protest. To keep Caitlyn with her a little longer, but her eyelids were already growing heavy again. She slid further down under the weighted blanket, letting its pressure ground her as she drifted off once more.

The morning after Boxing Day, Vi awoke to the sound of the front door opening. Sunlight streamed through the slightly opened curtains, casting a warm glow across the bedroom. She stretched, pleasantly surprised to find her muscles weren't aching anymore. The congestion that had made breathing a chore yesterday had cleared considerably. Her head felt clearer than it had in days.

She glanced to her side and found the other half of the bed empty, sheets cool to the touch. Caitlyn must have been up for a while.

"Cait?" she called out, her voice only slightly raspy now.

She relaxed when she heard the affirmative "One moment!" coming from the hallway.

Vi's natural instinct to investigate overcame Caitlyn's strict orders to stay in bed. She felt much better, after all. Staying put had never been her strong suit. Swinging her legs over the side of the bed, she found her strength had mostly returned. Good enough reason to venture out of her girlfriend imposed quarantine.

Padding barefoot into the hallway, she found Caitlyn struggling to shut the front door while balancing a large, pastel pink coloured box in her hands.

"Here, let me help," Vi mumbled, crossing the room quickly to take the box from Caitlyn's hands.

She immediately brightened when she eyed the familiar gold lettering of the box. The signature packaging from Bruno’s bakery.

"You didn't," she gasped, already lifting the lid to find the box layered with an assortment of treats. Flaky pastries, miniature cakes, and right on top, a stack of pecan plaits that made her mouth water instantly.

"He insisted," Caitlyn answered with a small smile, hanging her coat by the door. "The baker was quite adamant that his 'hero deserved a proper thank you. Plus," she added, a hint of sheepishness in her voice, "I thought a proper breakfast was in order considering my culinary prowess..."

Vi nodded sympathetically. "You did your best," Vi said, leaning over to press a kiss to Caitlyn's cheek. "And now your best has brought me pastries... I'd call that a win."

Vi carefully removed a pastry from the box and offered it to Caitlyn first. Presenting the flaky pecan plait with pleased flourish. "For my nurse."

Caitlyn accepted it with a smile, her fingertips brushing against Vi's. "How gallant."

"That's me... Gallant!" Vi answered through a mouth stuffed full of her first pecan plait. All but swallowed in one bite. She then selected her second pastry and moved toward the kitchen. "Coffee?"

She could feel Caitlyn's eyes tracking her every movement as she filled the kettle and reached for the coffee beans. There was a particular intensity to that gaze that told Vi exactly what was coming.

"You seem better, though you should really let me-" Caitlyn began, predictably concerned.

Vi cut her off with a look as she measured out the coffee grounds. "I stayed in bed for a whole twenty-four hours."

Caitlyn huffed, "Twenty-two." She muttered the correction under her breath.

Vi ignored her, continuing as she added a dash of cream to her own coffee before handing Caitlyn hers black. "That's more than anyone else has managed. You should be proud."

Caitlyn was still eyeing at her appraisingly, and Vi rolled her eyes. "I'm mostly fine. This is nothing, you should've seen when Powder got- Oh shit, Powder!" Vi exclaimed suddenly. "I didn't text her yesterday!"

Caitlyn waved a dismissive hand. "She's fine. I called her yesterday while you were sleeping. I informed her you were unwell."

Vi relaxed back against the counter, relief evident on her face. "Thanks, cupcake. You're the best."

But then she jolted upright again, nearly spilling her coffee. "Oh shit, your mother!"

Caitlyn blinked at the sudden outburst before sighing. "I also informed my mother that you would be unable to make..." Caitlyn paused as if the words physically pained her before continuing, "'Books and Brews' today."

Vi slumped fully relaxed again and happily took another bite of her second pecan plait. "Oh good, I wouldn't want her to think I ditched."

Caitlyn grumbled, "That would be a shame..."

Vi poked her with her foot. "Don't be jealous. You're still my favourite Kiramman. Although... Tobias is pretty cool."

Caitlyn shot her a glare. "I'm thrilled to hear I rank slightly above my father in your estimation."

Vi smiles and her voice softens slightly. "Your parents have been really good to me, Cait."

Caitlyn's expression softened as well. She set down her coffee cup and moved closer, placing her hands on Vi's waist. "They adore you. Almost as much as I do." She pressed a gentle kiss to Vi's cheek. "Though I do wish you wouldn't encourage my mother with this ridiculous book club."

Vi shrugged, "It's not that bad. I kind of like..." Vi paused, suddenly shy. "I don't know. Not many people like reading as much as me and it's nice... I guess. I never really got to talk about this stuff growing up...With my mom." Her voice grew quieter at the end, a wistful, slightly embarrassed look crossing her face.

Caitlyn softened further, reaching out to take Vi's hands in her own. "Then I suppose you may continue to indulge her." She squeezed Vi's fingers gently. "I just wish she'd pick something other than lesbian erotica..."

Vi chuckled, her earlier vulnerability dissolving into a mischievous grin. "I don't."

Later that evening, Vi lounged comfortably on Caitlyn's bed.

Propped up against the headboard with several plush pillows supporting her back.

The room was bathed in a gentle glow. Illuminated only by the soft white lights built into the borders of Caitlyn's vanity and the off-blue gleam of Vi's phone screen. They cast long shadows across the walls. Intimate and private.

Recovering well, Vi had constructed what could only be described as a den around herself. A fortress of silk pillows in varying shades of blue and cream that she'd arranged with surprising care. Some supported her back, others were tucked alongside her hips. One particularly pliable specimen was squished between her arms as she scrolled through her phone.

Caitlyn found the habit endearing. Her fearsome, tough and incredibly strong girlfriend was... soft. Practically disappearing into a cloud of expensive pillows each night. It was a side of Vi that few were privileged to see. This comfort seeking creature who would burrow into luxurious fabrics with undisguised pleasure.

The moment Caitlyn had first earned the right to such a scene, she'd made a decision. Sworn an oath. To ensure Vi's own home was suitable furnished.

Subtly, of course

She'd been strategic about it. Gradually migrating several of her own pillows to Vi's apartment under the pretense that she'd need them when staying over. In truth, Caitlyn had always been a one pillow sleeper. Preferring firm support beneath her head and nothing more. The only reason she had the additional pillows had been her doting father. He, together with her mother, had insisted on helping Caitlyn furnish the apartment. Family bonding was their excuse though Caitlyn could see through them. They'd been teary whilst saying their goodbyes and shown up that same weekend with pillows in hand.

Now, watching Vi nestled contently among them, Caitlyn couldn't help but think they'd finally found their true purpose.

Vi’s fingers danced across her phone screen as she chuckled intermittently. The sound light and carefree in a way that only appeared when she was truly relaxed.

Across the room, Caitlyn sat at her ornate dressing table, freshly showered with her hair still damp. She wore only her silk robe, cinched loosely at the waist, as she methodically brushed through her hair. The gentle scrape of bristles through wet strands provided a rhythmic backdrop to her monologue.

"...and that's the beauty of it," Caitlyn continued, gesturing with her brush to emphasise her point. "Five fundamental constants connected with one concise yet elegant expression."

Vi hummed in acknowledgment, but her attention remained fixed on her phone as her thumbs tapped rapidly across the screen. Another soft laugh escaped her lips.

Caitlyn paused mid-brush, catching Vi's distracted expression in the mirror. Her eyes narrowed slightly. "Who are you texting?" Caitlyn asked, curiosity finally getting the better of her as she watched Vi's amused expression in the mirror.

Vi's eyes remained on her phone as her thumbs continued their rapid dance across the screen. "Your mother. We're rescheduling."

Caitlyn raised an eyebrow, turning in her seat to face her girlfriend directly. "I said you could indulge her, not flirt with her."

Vi just scoffed at that but didn't look up, continuing to tap away at her phone. The corner of her mouth turned up in another smile as a new message appeared.

Caitlyn rose from her seat, crossing the room with deliberate steps. "Are you even listening to me?"

Vi nodded absently, still not looking up. "Yeah, babe. The beauty of Euler's identity is how concise it is whilst still connecting five of the most fundamental constants in mathematics..." She recited Caitlyn's words back verbatim, finally glancing up with a triumphant smirk.

Caitlyn huffed, annoyed despite herself. Vi had an irritating skill of being able to track multiple conversations at once. A talent she claimed came from years of having to stay aware of her surroundings whilst growing up.

Caitlyn closed her brush down on the dresser with slightly more force than necessary. Perhaps hoping the noise would some attention her way. It didn't work.

Her eyes narrowed at Vi's distracted form. If she wanted to play this game, Caitlyn would certainly make it interesting.

With determined steps, she approached the bed, stopping directly beside Vi. Her girlfriend continued texting, seemingly oblivious to Caitlyn's presence looming over her. Slowly, deliberately, Caitlyn reached for the sash of her robe, untying it with a soft whisper of silk. The garment fell open, revealing nothing but matching lace underneath.

Vi didn't even glance up.

A knowing smile spread across Caitlyn's face.

She was absolutely certain Vi was teasing her now. There was no way the woman who could spot a shimmer of movement in normal circumstances would miss Caitlyn standing nearly naked. Barely two feet from her face. Vi had an almost supernatural awareness of her surroundings. Particularly when those surroundings included her girlfriend in a state of undress.

Caitlyn narrowed her eyes. "You're not as subtle as you think, Vi."

The slightest twitch at the corner of Vi's mouth was the only indication she'd heard. Her eyes remained firmly fixed on her phone as her thumbs continued their rapid dance across the screen. Too firmly.

Caitlyn's gaze drifted to Vi's bare ankle peeking out from beneath the covers. Without warning, her hands shot out, encircling Vi's ankle with a firm grip.

"Wha-" Vi began, finally looking up from her phone, but the question died on her lips as Caitlyn yanked with unexpected strength.

Vi slid unceremoniously from her perch of pillows. Sliding down the bed until she landed flat on her back in the middle of the bed with a startled "oof." Her phone tumbled from her grasp. Bouncing onto the mattress beside her as she stared up at the ceiling, momentarily disoriented.

Before Vi could recover, Caitlyn moved with the fluid grace of a hunter. Vi imagined this was how coggy had felt that morning shortly before his metallic heart clanged its last beat. Because now Caitlyn was crawling onto the bed and straddling Vi's hips in one smooth motion. The robe hung open around her shoulders. Framing her lace-clad figure as she settled her weight comfortably atop her girlfriend.

Vi blinked rapidly, eyes darting between Caitlyn's face and the expanse of skin now on display above her. "Oh, hey," she said with feigned casualness, "didn't see you there." Her voice cracked slightly on the last word, betraying her affected nonchalance.

Caitlyn's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Is that so?" She leaned closer, one eyebrow arched in amusement. "Your voice seems a bit... strained. Still recovering from your illness, I assume?"

"Yeah," Vi nodded too quickly, adding in a fake cough to punctuate the sentence. "Definitely just the cold. Nothing else."

Caitlyn laughed, the sound low and rich as she leaned down, bringing her face inches from Vi's. Her breath ghosted over Vi's lips as she murmured, "You've been teasing me."

Vi instinctively lifted her head. Seeking contact, but Caitlyn pulled back just enough to maintain the tantalising distance between them. Vi let her head fall back against the mattress with a defeated groan.

"Maybe a little," she admitted, a pout forming on her lips. "But you're doing it too."

Caitlyn hummed in acknowledgment, shifting her weight to sit more fully on Vi's lap. "Perhaps I am."

With the pretense abandoned, Vi's eyes immediately dropped to roam appreciatively over Caitlyn's body. Taking in every curve outlined by delicate lace. Her hands moved to rest on Caitlyn's thighs, fingers tracing small circles against warm skin.

"This is way better than texting your mother."

Caitlyn groaned, leaning down to silence Vi with a kiss. Her lips pressed firmly against Vi's, effectively cutting off any further mention of her mother. After a moment, she pulled back just enough to speak, her voice low and commanding.

"Never mention my mother again while I'm on top of you."

Vi nodded rapidly, her expression apologetic despite the mischievous glint in her eyes. "Got it. No more momm-"

Caitlyn silenced her with another kiss, deeper this time. Vi responded eagerly, her hands sliding up Caitlyn's thighs to settle at her waist. The soft silk of the robe beneath her fingertips contrasted with the warm skin it barely concealed.

They continued like this, lost in each other, until the shrill ringing of Vi's phone interrupted them. The device vibrated against the mattress where it had fallen, its screen lighting up with an incoming call.

Caitlyn pulled back with a frustrated sigh, squeezing her eyes shut as Vi hurriedly reached out to check the phone.

"That better not be..." Caitlyn warned, her voice trailing off ominously.

Vi glanced at the screen, a wide grin spreading across her face before she answered with a bright, "Evening, Mrs. Kiramman! Yeah sorry I stopped responding. I got distracted..."

Caitlyn pinched Vi's side lightly, causing her to squirm beneath her.

The crisp winter air hit Vi's face as Caitlyn's car glided down the long gravel driveway of the Kiramman estate.

Vi clutched her worn copy of 'Say Yes to Heaven' tightly in her lap. Breathing a sigh of relief as the car finally slowed to a more reasonable pace.

Unlike the rest of their journey, after passing the gates Caitlyn had driven with uncharacteristic caution. Likely not wanting to provoke more chiding from her mother on her less than respectful approach to tire management.

Vi had spent most of the drive with white knuckles gripping the paper cover of her book. Protective of the text should the drive result in a catastrophic crash. It didn't. It never did. She did have to admit that it took a certain level of skill to disobey the rules of the road in such a manner. Not that she would ever tell Caitlyn that and become an enabler of her girlfriend's bad behaviour.

"At least you're not holding your bookclub in public this time," Caitlyn remarked. Leaning forward to peer up through the windshield at her home ahead. "Mother won't have a chance to fan rumours in the tabloids..."

Vi scoffed as she flipped open her dog-eared copy of the book. Now that they had slowed she was able to read without feeling that nauseating sickness that was inevitable whenever she tried to read in a moving car. "That was an accident." She answered absently, her eyes focused on rereading the ending of this week's chapter.

Caitlyn eyed her with judgy eyes. "I'm sure you believe that."

Vi grimaced at the memory.

She recalled all too vividly the incident. A photographer had caught the Kiramman matriarch and herself in what appeared to be a compromising position. It had happened in what they'd thought was a secluded corner of a quiet Piltover coffee shop. Her ears burned as she restrained herself from once again protesting to Caitlyn that it wasn't what it looked like. Cassandra had simply been wiping away an errant smear of jam that had made its way to Vi's cheek.

The culprit... A delicious buttery scone....

The way the photographer had angled the shot, however, made it look like they were engaged in something far more intimate. It had been a motherly gesture, nothing more. The headline "CASSANDRA KIRAMMAN'S SECRET RENDEZVOUS" ended up splashed across the newspapers the next morning. It had been truly one of the most embarrassing moments of Vi's life. And she embarrassed herself regularly...

The paper brimming with speculation on her connection to Caitlyn’s mother. Personal trainer or Sidepiece were the two biggest theories. Vi scoffed at the thought. If she were a personal trainer there’d be no way she’d allow her client to trick her into consuming a pile of buttery scones. She would've at least cut out the jam.

The displeased daggers Caitlyn had shot her mother's way the next morning as she slammed the newspaper on the breakfast table had Vi silenced. Wolfing down her eggs and eyes darting back and forth between the two. Deciding to keep her mouth well and truly full should she make it worse.

The tension had been thick enough to cut with a knife as Caitlyn had hissed something about "inappropriate public displays". Vi had simply shovelled more food into her mouth. Nodding along to the beat of Caitlyn's drum. Stiffly avoiding eye contact with either Kiramman woman. She ended up starting poor Tobias down the entirety of the breakfast.

After that incident, they'd agreed to hold their book club privately. At the Kiramman estate instead. Away from prying eyes and opportunistic photographers. Though Vi occasionally suspected Cassandra hadn't entirely minded the publicity.

Vi flushed at the memory, keeping her eyes fixed on the pages as Caitlyn huffed beside her. The crisp paper beneath her fingertips became infinitely more interesting as she tried to ignore the residual embarassment.

After a moment of weighted silence, Vi decided to hedge her bets on lightening the mood. "Jealousy's a look on you..." she teased, still not looking up from her book. Watching Caitlyn from the corner of her eye.

Caitlyn rolled her eyes, though the corner of her mouth twitched upward. "Of course it does," she replied dryly. "The Kiramman colors are green for a reason." A full toothy smile now peeked out as she turned to face Vi.

Vi finally looked up from her book, meeting Caitlyn's gaze. Their eyes locked for a moment before Caitlyn leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Vi's lips. “Be good," she murmured, her hand coming up to cup Vi's cheek.

"I'm always good," Vi replied with a grin that suggested otherwise. “You, on the other hand…” Caitlyn cut her off with a yank. Her hand encircling the collar of Vi's shirt and pulling her in fora another, firmer kiss.

Caitlyn suddenly stiffened. "They're spying on us again," she murmured against Vi's lips, though she made no effort to pull away.

Vi was the one to take the iniative and quickly break away. Her head whipping around to spot the curtain in one of the lower windows fluttering suspiciously.

Vi wiped at her mouth with the back of her hand, adjusting her collar as she eyed the curtain. "You guys are way too close," she muttered.

Before Caitlyn could respond, the grand oak door of the mansion swung open.

Tobias Kiramman emerged. Dressed in an impeccably tailored tweed suit complete with a matching flat cap. His polished rifle case was tucked neatly under one arm as he descended the stone steps with practiced grace.

Behind him, Cassandra appeared in the doorway. Her slender frame silhouetted against the warm light of the foyer. She watched her husband's progress across the gravel with the attentive gaze. That of a wife who had performed this ritual countless times before.

"Looks like I'm up," Vi said, gathering her book and preparing to exit the car. She turned to Caitlyn with a lopsided smile. "Wish me luck."

Caitlyn reached out, straightening Vi's collar with a gentle tug. "Don’t let my mother drag you into any more trouble," she warned, her tone light but her eyes serious.

Vi rolled her eyes but nodded. "No trouble. Got it." She leaned forward, pressing a quick, final peck to Caitlyn's lips before pulling away.

As Tobias approached the car, Vi pushed open her door and stepped out. Exchanging a polite nod and shake of hands with Caitlyn's father. They performed an awkward little dance as they traded places. Vi moving to greet Cassandra at the door of the mansion while Tobias carefully placed his rifle case in the back seat. After which he slid into the passenger seat Vi had just vacated.

Caitlyn watched the exchange ahead unfold, her eyes narrowed critically at her mother.

Cassandra maintained an innocent smile, too innocent, as she encircled her hand around Vi's bicep. Vi was already holding up the book. Chattering animatedly about a plot point she'd found particularly engaging.

"...and then when Cecelia finally admits that she-" Vi was saying as Cassandra skilfully guided her toward the door.

"We'll have plenty of time to discuss that inside, dear." Cassandra interjected smoothly, her grip on Vi's arm firm but gentle as she pulled her into the house. Out of Caitlyn's sight.

Caitlyn's hands tightened around the steering wheel until her knuckles turned white.

She immediately turned to her father, who was fiddling with the radio. Seemingly oblivious to the suspicious interaction that had just occurred.

"What's she planning?" Caitlyn demanded, her voice sharp with skepticism.

Tobias simply hummed along to the classical music he'd tuned into. Adjusting the volume with practiced nonchalance. "Shall we get on, darling? Grayson is expecting us," he answered innocently. Avoiding her gaze as he settled back in his seat.

Caitlyn stared at him for a long moment, frustration evident in her tense posture.

When it became clear he wasn't going to divulge whatever scheme her mother had concocted, she huffed and shifted the car into gear. Gravel crunching under the tires as they pulled away.

She cast one last glance at the mansion in her rearview mirror, wondering what exactly was in store for Vi today.

------------

Inside the Kiramman library, Vi found herself well and truly comfy in one of the antique armchairs.

Legs folded crosslegged beneath her. Her shoes had been discard at the door, a habit Cassandra had ingrained in her. The older woman sat across from her on the chesterfield sofa. Posture impeccable as always.

A porcelain teapot steamed between them on the polished mahogany table. Alongside delicate cups and saucers. The scent of rich tea mingled with the leather and paper aroma of the surrounding books.

"To me, it's clear. Victoria is a coward. Afraid to sacrifice her station for the woman she loves..." Cassandra's words carried an undercurrent of something else as she spoke. Something unspoken but pointed that Vi had grown to recognise during their sessions. Regret.

Vi didn't respond, her brow furrowed as she stared down at her own copy of the book. The passage she was rereading had captured her attention so completely that she missed the expectant silence that followed Cassandra's comment.

"Violet? You disagree?" Cassandra finally prompted, one perfectly shaped eyebrow arched in question.

Vi looked up, biting her lip before nodding hesitantly.

"Well, speak freely," Cassandra insisted, settling back against the sofa cushions. She removed her reading glasses and left them to hang freely from the chain around her neck.

Vi sighed, her eyes flicking from the pages up to meet Cassandra's penetrating gaze. "She is afraid. But not of losing her station. I think she's scared of how strong her feelings for Cecelia are. A woman of her status likely never formed bonds as close as this outside of her family. It's not her station she's afraid of losing but Cecelia herself, ironically. That's why she pushes her away."

As she rambled, Vi glanced back down at the book and flicked back a few pages. "You can see it in the way she talks here to her mother. She doesn't care for her station or she'd be more afraid of standing up to her..." She pointed to the passage. Flipping her book around to show Cassandra the highlighted lines.

Rather unusually, Cassandra remained quiet.

Her eyes dropping down to the pages contemplatively. The silence stretched between them, broken only by the soft ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner.

Vi watched on, uncertainty creeping in. "Did I say something wrong?" she finally ventured.

Cassandra cleared her throat before tearing her eyes away from the book and meeting Vi's gaze. "Not at all. In fact, it appears you understand the story far better than I..." she hummed, even as she reached out to pick up her teacup. Draining it before setting it back down on the table with a soft clink.

Vi shrugged, though her lips quirked at the praise. "You're quite the observant one..." Cassandra continued, then paused. "More tea?" she asked, eyes sparkling as if daring Vi to call out the subject change.

"Sure, but here. Let me, Mrs. Kiramman," Vi answered, jumping up quickly to refill the older woman's teacup. The hot dark liquid steamed as it exited the spout. Its rich aroma filling the space between them.

Caitlyn's mother had caught on far quicker than her daughter to Vi's dislike of the flowery kind. Though she kept Vi's secret for now. Cassandra had quietly switched to the robust breakfast tea Vi preferred without comment or fanfare.

Vi was still dealing with the repercussions of entheuseatically praising Caitlyn's favourite elderflower blend. It was her cross to bear. Alone...

"Cassandra." The older woman chided, her voice gentle but firm. "I thought we'd moved past such formalities by now."

Vi gave a sheepish smile as she spooned a minute quarter teaspoon of brown sugar into Cassandra's tea. "Sorry... old habits," she apologised halfheartedly before heaping two generous spoonfuls of white sugar into her own cup.

After a quick stir, she drew back up, handing Cassandra her teacup. As she did so, Vi winced at the movement, a soft hiss escaping her lips.

Cassandra's eyes tracked her face with mild concern. "What's wrong?" she asked, observing the way Vi's expression pinched. "Are you still feeling unwell?" She assessed Vi over a sip of the fresh tea as the younger woman returned to the armchair.

"I must be..." Vi murmured absently. "I've been getting headaches... Nothing to worry about." She took a long sip of tea, her eyes quickly fixing back on the book in her lap.

Cassandra hummed, eyes narrowed as Vi became entranced in a particular paragraph. The younger woman was squinting noticeably as she leaned closer to the page. Muttering her thoughts on the prose.

"The way she writes this part is really coo-"

"Perchance, do you wear glasses, Violet?" Cassandra interrupted.

Vi glanced up, her mouth silently repeating the word 'perchance' before she snapped out of it. She nodded hesitatingly. "Yeah, well I did. Broke them a couple months ago..." Vi trailed off as Cassandra's mouth turned down in an unhappy frown.

"Do you know how long it's been since you've replaced them?" Cassandra asked, her voice carefully neutral.

Vi shrugged. "They're expensive... It's not a priority." She answered simply.

Cassandra's frown deepened. "Not a priority? Your eyesight?" She inquired with a disbelieving look.

Vi bristled at that.

"Yeah. Not a priority." Vi affirmed firmly, sitting up in the armchair now and squaring her shoulders. "Food for me and my sister is a priority. Keeping us safe and warm. Not that I'd expect you to understand having to choose." Vi grumbled, and she could feel herself getting overly defensive. But something about the way Cassandra was doubting her made her offended.

Cassandra's eyebrows climbed as she too sat up, setting her book down on the coffee table. Vi's eyes watched on, ready to be thrown out for speaking to her in such a manner.

"I apologise, Violet." Cassandra stated simply, and Vi blinked. Deflating a little as her defensiveness ebbed away. Oh.

"I should not have questioned you like that... My bluntness is borne from decades of dealing with weaselly politicians..." Vi let out a small laugh at that as Cassandra continued. "I simply broached the topic to ask if you had considered your lack of glasses to be the cause of your headaches." Cassandra continued, and that had Vi pausing.

Vi furrowed her brow, taking a moment to ponder. "That doesn't make sense. The headaches have only started recently, and I broke my glasses back at the start of term."

Cassandra sipped her tea thoughtfully. "Have you perhaps been reading more recently, owing to the holidays?"

At that, Vi slumped in her armchair, because yeah, she had been. Pretty much everyday. "Maybe," she sighed, now subconsciously rubbing at her tired eyes with the palm of her hand. "But it doesn't really matter."

She glanced up at Cassandra when the older woman tutted disapprovingly.

"Of course it matters. We simply can't have you in pain every time we read," she chided.

Vi rolled her eyes, muttering petulantly about how she wasn't in that much pain. It only earned her another tut from Cassandra.

"Come, we'll get you tested for a new pair today."

Vi frowned, considering. "I don't want a handout," she stated eventually.

Cassandra smirked. "Consider it a late birthday gift."

At that Vi was perturbed. Her birthday had been just before Christmas. Briefly, she wondered how the woman had known. Had Caitlyn told her, or did it come up in Cassandra's earlier spying, disguised as background checks? Maybe Vi didn't want to know.

While Vi was considering it, Cassandra further chimed in. "I refuse to continue our bookclub unless you allow me to assist. I won't have you in pain in my household." Her tone carried a note of finality.

Vi sighed forlornly, looking down at her copy of "Say Yes to Heaven" now abandoned on the coffee table. It was just getting good, and she needed an interested party to talk about it with.

"Fine. Cheap ones," Vi acquiesced.

Cassandra smirked slyly. "Of course. Wait for me in the foyer. I'll change, and we can leave for town."

Cassandra stood, necking the remainder of her tea with a practiced ease that somehow made the action appear graceful. Vi nodded resignedly. Standing to follow and sliding her copy of the book into the back pocket of her jeans. Just in case they didn't return later. Caitlyn seemed to enjoy her carrying books around like this, Vi thought absently. The thought had her recalling their last conversation in the car.

"Caitlyn isn't going to be happy after last time... The newspapers..." Vi bit her lip as they exited the library.

Cassandra hummed. "Well, my dear Caitlyn was never one to hide from salacious rumors, was she? In fact, I seem to recall her encouraging one or two..." Cassandra drawled with a wink in Vi's direction as she turned left down the hall towards her bedroom. "Not to worry, I know how to keep a low profile!" she called over her shoulder.

Vi stood at the door of the library and sighed deeply, shoving her hands in her pockets.

She very much doubted Cassandra Kiramman knew the meaning of 'low profile'.

Vi would have some grovelling to do.

Cassandra jerked her car to a stop at the side of the road, the convertible's tires squealing slightly against the pavement.

Vi shakily released the seatbelt which she had been clutching to her chest the entire ride over. She kept it on until she saw Cassandra's driving glove covered hands turn the ignition and the engine's rumbling faded to silence. Vi stewed in the confirmation that driving style was apparently genetic.

"A convertible isn't very low profile..." Vi commented as her eyes darted around paranoid a photographer would burst out of some bushes at random.

It was quiet. The liminal space between Christmas and the new year meant crowds were rarely drawn to the town. Too busy sleeping off their Christmas Day feasts.

"I'm wearing a disguise, aren't I?" Cassandra hummed. She twisted the rearview mirror toward herself and touched up her lipstick before pressing it away.

Vi's eyes narrowed. Cassandra's disguise consisted of a pair of designer sunglasses and… well that was it. She turned away shaking her head and scanned their surroundings. They were parked directly in front of a jewellery store.

The storefront was painted a rich navy blue colour with gold accents. The lettering engraving the name in the glass of the window marked the store as 'Steb's'. Cassandra exited the car and Vi followed. Rounding the front she peered through the window skeptically.

"This is an eye doctor?" She moved closer to the window and eyed the row after row of rings lined in the window. An army of glittering gold and silver that shined in the afternoon sunlight. Stones of all colours and sizes embedded in the centre each one. Above them necklaces hung from model busts and earrings were displayed up and down cylindrical columns.

Cassandra came up next to her and nodded as she too took a glance at the shining paraphernalia. "The optical arts are quite the lucrative side hustle, I'm told. And their frames are made in house, my own reading glasses were a pair of Steb's." She commented as she reached up to ring the bell beside the storefront.

"It looks like it's closed," Vi noted and Cassandra again nodded.

"Not to worry, I called ahead. Steb is an old family friend."

As she spoke, the door to the store pulled open and the bell above rang with a delicate chime. Vi found herself face to face with a man of vastayan origin. His fish-like features accentuated by a pair of small round spectacles perched at the end of his nose. His scales were a soft hue of turquoise blue with darker markings around his icy eyes. An impeccably tailored waistcoat adorned his tall frame over a crisp white shirt.

"Steb, darling, you look wonderful as always," Cassandra greeted warmly. "Thank you for accommodating us on such short notice." He stepped forward and took both of Cassandra's hands in his, pressing a polite kiss to each cheek, as Cassandra continued, "It's been far too long."

The vastayan, Steb, turned his gaze to Vi, his eyes quickly assessing her with professional interest. "Vi, nice to meet you." The vastayan extended a well-manicured hand toward Vi. Vi shook his hand, noticing his firm but gentle grip, she glanced at Cassandra wondering why he wasn't responding.

Cassandra let out a soft, elegant laugh. "Steb isn't much of a talker," she explained to Vi. "He prefers to work in silence."

Vi nodded, a small smile crossing her face. Wow, they have their own Loris, she thought.

Steb made a fluid motion with his webbed hand, clearly indicating they should follow him inside.

Vi hesitated at the threshold, glancing at Cassandra who gave her an encouraging nod. With a small sigh, she stepped into the store. Immediately she was enveloped by the scent of polished metal. The interior was even more impressive than the storefront had suggested. Gleaming display cases lining the walls and soft lighting that made everything sparkle just right. Vi's eyes sparkled in turn.

At the back of the store, a wall lined with various pairs of glasses stretched from floor to ceiling.

Gold, silver, black and clear frames dominated the collection. Though there were a few more audacious pieces with frames in brighter colours. Some offered glass tinted in varying shades that had Vi staring in fascination.

She approached the display, eyes wide as she took in the sheer variety.

Simple wire to elaborate designer pieces, the selection was overwhelming. Vi resisted the urge to touch them. Knowing instinctively that some of these frames probably cost more than her entire wardrobe.

They walked further into the store, and Steb guided them with a graceful gesture of his webbed hand. He drew back a heavy velvet curtain to reveal a small, immaculately maintained room. The space contained an adjustable chair facing an eye chart projected on the wall. Alongside were various sophisticated looking optical instruments on a side table.

Clearly, the eye testing was done here. Despite the room's modest size, the equipment appeared state of the art. Vi hesitated at the entrance, suddenly feeling out of place.

The small examination room seemed to shrink further as they all filed in. Steb gestured silently for Vi to take a seat in the examination chair. His movements fluid and precise.

Cassandra moved to stand at Vi's side. Crossing her arms as she watched with attentive interest.

Steb closed the heavy curtains with a soft swish, plunging the room into darkness for a brief moment. The vastayan moved with practiced ease in the dim light. Flicking on a projector that illuminated the wall across from Vi with varying letters that decreased in size as they went down the chart.

Vi blinked as the letters came into focus... or rather, as the top rows did. The bottom rows remained frustratingly blurry no matter how hard she concentrated.

Steb made a simple gesture toward the chart. Clearly asking her to begin reading.

Vi straightened in the chair, clearing her throat. "E, F, P, T, O, Z..." She read confidently through the first few rows. But as her eyes traveled down to the smaller letters, her voice grew less certain. "L, P, E, D... um..." She squinted hard at the second to last row, leaning forward slightly in her chair.

The letters refused to sharpen. They remained stubbornly blurred. Swimming slightly before her eyes as she strained to make them out. "C? Maybe K? And... I think that's an V?" She guessed, frustration evident in her voice.

Cassandra tutted disapprovingly. "I wish you would've mentioned something earlier, Violet. Your eyesight is worse than I thought." she chided, concern threading through her stern tone.

"It's not a big deal, just when I'm reading," Vi waved her worry off with a dismissive hand gesture.

Cassandra huffed at the nonchalance of the remark, "And how often are you reading?" she replied sharply, one elegant eyebrow arched in challenge.

At that, Vi quieted her protests. Shoulders slumping slightly as she reluctantly returned her attention to the chart. She resumed reading the letters with growing difficulty. Each row becoming an increasingly impossible task. Until she was just making educated guesses based on vague shapes and shadows.

As Vi's test continued, Steb worked methodically. Pulling out a contraption that looked like an oversized pair of glasses with lens slots in the side. With nimble fingers, he selected various lenses from a nearby case. Inserting them into the frame one after another.

"Better or worse?" Cassandra translated each time Steb made a simple hand gesture after changing a lens.

"Better," Vi answered after one particularly clear view of the chart. Then, as another lens clicked into place, "Worse. Definitely worse."

Steb nodded, making subtle adjustments as he went. Vi felt a strange sense of relief whenever she could suddenly make out the last two rows.

"E, D, F, C, Z, P," she read confidently through a new combination of lenses. Surprising herself when she could see all the way to the bottom row.

After several more changes and adjustments, Steb stepped back with a satisfied nod. His eyes meeting Cassandra's over Vi's head. He made a small gesture with his hands that seemed to communicate something specific to Cassandra.

Cassandra's lips curved into a pleased smile. "Thank you, Steb." She turned to Vi, a touch of excitement peeling through her typical facade of haughty boredom. "Now for the fun part." She gestured for Vi to follow out of the room and they came to the frames.

Cassandra gestured to the vast display of frames with a flourish.

"Anything taken your liking?" she asked. Watching as Vi's eyes scanned the selection with growing bewilderment.

Vi stepped closer to the wall, brows furrowed in concentration as she examined row after row. Her fingers hovered uncertainly over a simple black pair before moving to a sleeker metal design. "Where are the prices?" she finally asked, turning to look at Cassandra.

Cassandra merely shrugged, choosing pointedly to not answer the question. Her lips quirked in that familiar knowing smile that told Vi she wouldn't be getting that information.

Vi sighed as she turned back to the display, now presented with far too much choice. Her previous pair had been easy to pick out. There hadn't really been a choice. The discounted plastic frames at the bottom of the pile. In what could barely be considered an eye doctor that Vander had taken her to as child.

Now she couldn't decide between designer brands she'd never heard of and materials she couldn't identify. She felt stuck.

"I don't know..." Vi floundered, unused to such a situation. Her fingers traced the edge of a tortoiseshell frame before setting it back down.

Cassandra tilted her head, observing Vi's indecision. "Would you like me to make some suggestions?" she asked, a gleam of excitement in her eyes.

Vi nodded gratefully. "Please.”

Cassandra hummed, turning a pair of silver frames in her fingers. "Any requests?" she asked, watching Vi intently. "Colour preferences? Style specifications? I'm happy to make adjustments."

Vi flushed at the first thought that came to her mind. Her gaze dropping to the floor. She shifted her weight from one foot to the other. Suddenly fascinated with a scuff mark on her boot.

"What?" Cassandra pressed intrigued, leaning closer. "Tell me."

Vi rubbed the back of her head awkwardly, the pink in her cheeks deepening. "Maybe, just something you think Cait would like..." she mumbled, voice barely audible.

Cassandra's smile was all teeth, sharp and knowing. She nodded with decisive precision. "Say no more."

Her eyes gleamed with a predatory satisfaction that made Vi wonder if she'd just made a terrible mistake.

"Golden frames, of course!" Cassandra immediately began to recite, her words flowing with practiced expertise. "Can't have silver to clash with your hair. And I think round will suit your more angular features. A classic frame, not too big, not too small." She moved along the display with purpose, her fingers dancing over the options as she spoke.

Vi gawped, wondering how long Cassandra had been considering this.

The speed and confidence with which she assessed the options suggested she'd given Vi's potential eyewear significant thought before today. Vi shoved her hands deep in her jean pockets and refrained from interrupting the process.

With a triumphant "Ah!" Cassandra plucked a pair from the very centre of the display. Handling them with the reverence one might reserve for fine jewellery. She turned to Vi, extending them with an expectant look.

"Try these," she instructed, her tone making it clear this wasn't merely a suggestion.

Vi tentatively accepted the frames.

Their weight surprisingly light in her hand. She unfolded them carefully. Conscious she was handling something fragile... and expensive, before sliding them onto her face. The metal was cool against her skin as they settled into place.

Resting perfectly on the bridge of her nose.

Cassandra clapped her hands together, eyes lighting up with unmistakable delight. Vi blinked. "I fear I've outdone myself this time, Steb." She eagerly gestured for Vi to take a look in the mirror to the side of the display.

Vi approached the mirror hesitantly. Her reflection coming into focus as she drew closer. She eyed herself critically. Turning her head slightly to examine the frames from different angles. Damn, the frames really did make her eyes pop. The thin gold rims caught the light beautifully, adding warmth to her features and contrasting nicely with her pink hair.

Steb appeared behind her in the mirror. His expression as unreadable, but he offered a silent nod of approval. Somehow it carried more weight than any verbal compliment could have. Vi was once again reminded of Loris.

"Cait will love them," Vi commented as she turned her head from side to side appraisingly. She couldn't deny she looked good.

"More importantly, you'll be able to see," Cassandra reminded her with faux reproach.

Vi shrugged, a small smile playing at her lips. "That too."

She removed the frames, folding them carefully before handing them back. Steb swiftly plucked them from her hands. His webbed fingers cradling the delicate frames with practiced care.

Cassandra straightened her posture, watching as Steb returned to his workstation. "Steb is remarkably proficient, though even he doesn't work miracles. "I'll have them sent over to your apartment by tomorrow morning." she explained, her tone matter-of-fact.

Vi nodded appreciatively. "Thank you," she said sincerely. The words carrying more weight than their simplicity suggested. "Wait... you know where I live?"

Cassandra waved her off dismissively. "It's nothing."

Vi watched as Cassandra approached the counter. Elegantly removing a card from her purse and handing it to Steb. When the price flashed on the small display, Vi couldn't help but choke at the amount.

"That's not nothing!" she exclaimed, eyes wide with shock.

Cassandra rolled her eyes dramatically. "A small price to pay for a literary companion. Not to mention," she added with a sly glance at Vi, "you look exceedingly handsome.” Vi flushed pink to match her hair.

“My daughter should be the one thanking me really." She sniffed haughtily as Vi choked on air.

A KIRAMMAN WEDDING ON THE HORIZON?

Cassandra Kiramman spotted ring shopping yesterday morning with none other than her daughter’s buff new beau on her arm! Could this mean wedding bells are ringing for the sole heir to the Kiramman fortune? Rumours have been swirling in Piltover high society ever since the two made their first public appearance together at the Grayson Rifle Club annual Boxing Day hunt. Our sources are saying they made quite the ‘splash’.

Caitlyn let out an annoyed grunt as she threw the magazine down on Vi's coffee table. Slumping miserably back onto the couch. She crossed her arms and pouted furiously.

"Absolute drivel. As if I would let you pick the rings without me!" She scoffed, eyeing the magazine with extreme distaste.

Vi blinked, a little dazed at the implication once again that Caitlyn was willing to marry her. She settled back next to Caitlyn on the couch and placed a comforting arm around her.

The image of herself and Cassandra peering in the window of Steb’s haunting her from the corner of her eye. She pressed a reassuring kiss to her girlfriend's forehead.

An amused voice asked from the other side of the room. "Oh, I didn't realise Vi had proposed already!" The voice continued innocently and Vi glared as she met Powder's eyes across the room. Her sister waggling her eyebrows tauntingly.

"She didn't, Powder," Caitlyn answered seriously, "It's all an absolute fabrication fuelled by my mother." Caitlyn informed her before continuing even as Vi winced. "Besides I will be the one proposing. We've already discussed it." Caitlyn added firmly.

"You will?"

"We did?"

Both Vi and Powder asked simultaneously, glancing at each other.

Caitlyn tore her glare away from the magazine to meet Vi's eyes. "Yes, don't you remember? The same night Jayce found out about us."

Vi vaguely recalled the conversation and nodded slowly. "Oh... yeah totally, babe..." She answered, meeting Powder's amused eyes with an absolutely baffled expression.

Powder let out an exaggerated exhale of relief. "Phew, well that settles that!" she exclaimed, earning herself another glare from Vi.

Caitlyn sighed deeply, sinking further into the couch. "I can't believe this happened again."

Vi nodded guiltily. Properly admonished for being dragged into the papers yet again. Even after being specifically warned. "Sorry, babe."

Caitlyn hummed thoughtfully. Grabbing the hand draped over her shoulder and pressing a gentle kiss to Vi's knuckles. "I don't blame you... I blame my mother," she gritted out.

Powder gagged at the display of intimacy, and Vi sighed. "Maybe she didn't know..."

Caitlyn shot her a look that could kill, and Vi chuckled nervously, "Okay, she totally knew."

At that moment, a knock at the door interrupted them. Caitlyn grumbled, "If that's a paparazzi, I will fetch my rifle."

Vi chuckled again and shooed Powder to open the door. Not wanting to extricate her limbs from Caitlyn's comfortable embrace.

Powder rolled her eyes but hopped up and made her way to the entrance. Vi heard her whistling lowly and twisted her head to find her sister taking a small box from a delivery man. A fancy delivery man wearing white gloves. Powder shut the door after he left and made her way back over, the small case held carefully in her hands.

It was a small, velvet glasses case in the same colouring as Steb's storefront. Navy blue with golden lettering.

"Fancy," Powder commented, handing Vi the case, which she took.

It was soft in her hands and embossed with her initials in gold print. She dreaded to think how much extra that cost. Caitlyn eyed the box curiously as Vi flicked it open whilst murmuring, "At least I got some glasses out of this ordeal."

Caitlyn hummed in agreement. Having already chided Vi for not informing her that for the past few months she could not, in fact, see.

Vi opened the case, revealing the golden-rimmed glasses Cassandra had selected for her. She lifted them carefully from their velvet nest. Unfolding them with delicate fingers before looking up to find Caitlyn watching with interest.

Caitlyn nodded her approval, her eyes tracing the thin metal frames. "Those look nice," she commented, extending a hand. 

Vi handed them over, watching as Caitlyn examined them closely. Turning them in her hands with appreciation. "These are quite elegant..." she murmured before looking back up at Vi with an expectant expression. "May I? ."

Vi nodded and closed her eyes as Caitlyn slid them onto her face with careful precision. Delicate fingers brushing the sides of her slightly wild morning hair back and out of the way. The moment they settled on the bridge of her nose, she looked up to gauge Caitlyn's reaction.

Caitlyn froze, her mouth slightly parted, eyes widening almost imperceptibly.

Vi's lips quirked upward into a smug smile as she watched her girlfriend's reaction. "You like?" she asked, knowing full well what the answer was.

Caitlyn snapped out of her trance, swallowing heavily. "They're... acceptable," she managed, her voice slightly strained. She reached forward, hands coming up to carefully adjust the frames. Ensuring they sat perfectly horizontal on Vi's face. Her fingers lingered perhaps a moment longer than necessary.

"I don't know," Caitlyn continued, clearing her throat. "Come show me in the bathroom. The light is better in there."

At that, Vi's smile faltered, and she sagged a little in disappointment.

She had hoped Cait would love them immediately. Especially after that initial reaction. Had she misread the situation? "Oh, okay," she responded, trying not to let her disappointment show.

Vi let herself be dragged up toward the bathroom, shoulders slumped slightly. Behind them, Powder called out with a snicker, "I like them. They make you look rich!"

Vi rolled her eyes at her sister's comment but couldn't help feeling a little more self conscious as Caitlyn pulled her along with purpose. Once they reached the bathroom door, Vi hesitated. Worrying her bottom lip between her teeth.

"If you don't like them I don't have to wear them outside of reading. I don't need to see-"

The words died in her throat as soon as they crossed the threshold. Caitlyn kicked the door shut behind them and in one fluid motion pressed Vi firmly against the wall. Before Vi could process what was happening, Caitlyn's lips were on hers in a heated kiss that made her knees weak.

Vi's eyes widened in surprise behind her new glasses before fluttering closed.

Her hands instinctively moved to Caitlyn's waist. Pulling her closer as she melted into the kiss. The intensity took her breath away, Caitlyn's fingers threading through her pink hair. Gripping tightly. Angling her head to deepen the kiss even further.

When they finally broke apart, both breathing heavily, Caitlyn's eyes were dark with desire. She kept Vi pinned against the wall, their faces inches apart.

"I take it you approve?" Vi asked, her voice husky and slightly dazed.

Caitlyn moved in for another kiss, her hands cupping Vi's face. Thumbs brushing against the delicate gold frames. Just as their lips were about to meet again, Powder's voice called from the living room.

"Hey, what's taking so long in there?!"

Caitlyn pulled back with an irritated sigh, her forehead resting against Vi's. She fixed Vi with an intense stare, her voice dropping to a commanding whisper.

"Get. Rid. Of. Her." Each word was punctuated with a firm kiss that left Vi breathless.

Vi grinned widely, unable to help herself. "You're so obsessed with me..." she teased, earning herself an eye roll from Caitlyn.

Without further warning, Vi found herself being unceremoniously pushed out of the bathroom. The door shutting firmly behind her. She stumbled slightly. Adjusting her glasses which had been knocked askew during her girlfriend's accosting.

When Vi emerged into the living room, Powder took one look at her disheveled appearance and grimaced. Vi knew how she must look. Flushed cheeks, mussed hair, and slightly swollen lips. Not good.

Was Caitlyn wearing lipstick today? Vi rubbed at her mouth without shame.

"Ugh, gross. Never mind, I don't want to know," Powder said, making a disgusted face.

Vi straightened her posture and cleared her throat. She then pointed toward the door. "Out. Now."

Powder wrinkled her nose. "You disgust me."

Vi rolled her eyes and gestured toward the door again. "Well then, you should have no problem with leaving."

Powder rolled her eyes dramatically as Caitlyn emerged from the bathroom looking... wholly presentable.

Not a hair out of place, not a wrinkle in her clothing. If it weren't for the slight flush to her cheeks, no one would have suspected a thing.

"Sorry Powder, your sister is insatiable." Caitlyn commented lightly, an innocent smile playing at her lips.

Vi's mouth dropped open as she twisted to stare at Caitlyn in betrayal. Again? Seriously?

Powder rolled her eyes and muttered, "She's the worst," as she moved for the door.

"Maybe learn some self control?" Powder suggested, hand on the doorknob as Vi continued staring at Caitlyn. Utterly devastated.

The door clicked shut behind Powder and Vi blinked herself out of her stupor. "You can't keep pinning this on me!" Vi exclaimed, gesturing wildly at her own generally disheveled appearance.

Caitlyn smiled evilly, "Can't I?" She reached out to fix Vi's glasses. Never mind that Vi had already fixed them, before wrapping a hand around her wrist and dragging her back toward the bedroom.

"Wait, at least let me put the glasses back in the case!" Vi exclaimed, glancing back to the coffee table even as her feet continue to glide after Caitlyn. The grip on her wrist tightens in response.

"Oh no...They're staying on."