Chapter Text
Chapter 1
Vi loves her job. She didn't think she would. When she started, she did it for the money. It was too good to turn down. At the time, Vi was working multiple temp jobs and bartending. When Councilor Cassandra Kiramman offered her the job as her personal assistant, Vi couldn't say no to the paycheck. She thought the Councilor would be overbearing, and she would feel as if she had sold her soul. The hours were long and the schedule chaotic, but the Councilor was friendly and understanding. The Councilor was trying to do good for Zaun and would even ask Vi for her opinion. The more Vi worked for her, the more Vi enjoyed herself.
The only thing truly hard about her job was Vi's crush on the Councilor's daughter, Caitlyn Kiramman. It was fine when Caitlyn lived with her wife and child, but then the fallout and divorce happened. Caitlyn moved them closer so her parents could help, and slowly, they became part of Vi's job. Vi keeps things professional, but that doesn't stop her heart from fluttering whenever she sees Caitlyn. Even when Caitlyn comes barreling through the Councilor's home office without knocking and slams papers on the desk.
"She's filing for sole custody of Claire." Caitlyn slumps into the chair opposite her mother. Cassandra glances at Vi, and she understands the assignment. She moves to the bar cart in the corner. Vi knows the discussions about Caitlyn's ex stress both women out, so she opts to make them both negronis.
Cassandra finished skimming over the papers: "Caitlyn, I'm sure she doesn't have a leg to stand on in court. Whatever she plans, I'm sure we can handle it."
"I know, it's just exhausting." Caitlyn pinched the bridge of her nose.
Vi hands Caitlyn her drink. "Thank you, Violet. I'm sorry for storming in here and interrupting." Vi normally doesn't like her full name, but she doesn't mind it when Caitlyn says it.
"It's no problem at all. We were wrapping up for the evening, reviewing next week's schedule." Vi moves to hand Cassandra her drink. "Councilor, I'll step out in the meantime. Let me know if you need anything."
"Thank you, dear. It will only be a few moments." Cassandra takes a sip and waves Vi off.
Vi left them to their business and went to find Tobias, Cassandra's husband because he was most likely watching Claire. It took a few minutes, but Vi found them in the kitchen. Claire had a coloring book out, and Tobias was chopping fruit. Vi tickled Claire's sides, and she let out a squeal.
"Vi!" Claire beams at her.
"Hey, kiddo." Vi grabs a peach to eat, but Tobias holds out his hand. Vi laughs and hands him the peach. She thinks it's funny how offended Tobias and Cassandra get if you don't let them cut up your fruit.
Vi remembers the first time she ate an apple in front of Cassandra. It was a busy day, and they didn't have time for lunch. Vi bought a couple of apples from a street vendor, so they had something to make it through the day. Before Vi could bite into one, Cassandra grabbed it from Vi and pulled out a pocket knife. She cut off a piece and gave it to Vi. Vi could only take it without objection. One reason is Councilor Cassandra Kiramman causally has a knife on her; two, Vi never had someone cut up her fruit.
"How was school?" Vi settles on the bar stool next to Claire.
"Today was fun. We started a new book for reading time." Claire hands Vi a purple crayon and points to the flower she wants Vi to color.
Tobias laughs at Vi. "Taking orders from all Kiramman women today?"
"I don't think you have any room to speak; at least I'm getting paid to take orders from a five-year-old," Vi retorts, making them both laugh.
When they enter the room, both Kiramman women ask, "What's so funny?" Vi and Tobias laugh again.
"You can answer that since you're on the clock," Tobias says as he turns his attention to cutting the peach.
Vi continues to color. "Nothing much, just how the Kiramman genes are strong."
Vi knew that if she looked up from the coloring book, both women would be staring at her. She chose the safer option of continuing coloring with Claire and eating her fruit. Caitlyn watched as Claire pointed to another flower and changed the crayon in Vi's hand. Caitlyn smiled at the two of them, understanding Vi's words.
Vi let Caitlyn take her spot to color and addressed the Councilor. "I'll take my leave unless you need anything else from me, Councilor." Vi was comfortable with the Kiramman family but knew when to keep things professional.
Cassandra liked many things about Vi, especially her ability to switch from a relaxed to a professional mode. She knew Vi was perceptive to know which was appropriate. She could joke with Tobias or color with Claire, but when they discussed work, Vi was serious.
Cassandra starts to move around the kitchen, "We can call it a day. The girls are staying for dinner. Would you care to join us?"
Vi let her shoulders relax, "Thank you for the offer, but I have my own gremlin to feed." Vi patted Claire's head.
Cassandra moves to the fridge and starts pulling items out. "How is Powder doing?"
"Good. She's good. Finishing her last year and looking into master's programs. She has a huge paper due, and her sweet tooth is out of control." Vi was a little stressed about the cost of the master's program. She was paid well for a PA, thanks to the Kirammans, and Powder is always diligent about securing as many scholarships and grants as possible. But until everything was set in stone, Vi was going to worry.
"I'm glad. Both of you are always welcome at our dinner table." Cassandra hands her a container of food. Vi must have looked reluctant about taking the food. "No arguing. What does Powder have you making this weekend?"
"Chocolate Hazelnut cookies." Vi saw Caitlyn and Claire's heads perk up but didn't turn around from the coloring book. "She's been on a hazelnut kick ever since you got her those hazelnut candies."
Cassandra was chopping various things and putting them in another container. "Oh, good. I'll remember to get more next time I'm there."
"Powder would love that." Vi felt lucky to have a boss like Cassandra. Vi overemphasized her following words, "She's making me make a big batch too, but I'm not sure if we can finish all of them. If only someone could help us out." The Kirammans loved it when Vi brought in extra desserts. Caitlyn tried to hide her sweet tooth while Claire begged for more.
Caitlyn stood and faced Vi, rolling her eyes, "Well, if you insist. I guess we could help you out."
"Oh, you're too kind." Vi was on the border of flirting. She knew she shouldn't. Especially since Caitlyn was being friendly and nothing more. Vi was still an employee of the Kiramman family, and lines couldn't be crossed. "I'll bring some in on Monday. An extra big one for Claire."
"Yay! Thanks, Vi." Claire hopped down and hugged Vi's legs. "I want extra hazelnut."
Vi just laughs and pats her head, "Sure thing, kiddo. See you Monday." They say their final goodbyes, and Cassandra hands her the other container before she leaves.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Vi enters her apartment, arms full of groceries, to Powder and Ekko watching TV on the couch. "Hey, guys, how was your day?"
They both get up and join her in the kitchen. Ekko helps her put groceries away, and Powder opens a bag of chips, "School was fine. This paper is kicking my ass. I need a sugar rush to look at it again."
Vi chuckles, "Don't worry, I'm making your cookies tonight."
Powder looks in another bag, "Clearly baking for an army. Or maybe just someone in particular."
Ekko laughs at this, "What excuse do you have this time to make more?" He turns to Powder, pointing at Vi with his thumb. "Remember when she accidentally made another cheesecake." He can barely put up air quotes from laughing.
Powder adds, "Or when she made another cake when she found out Caitlyn didn't like coconut."
Vi shakes her head, "Alright, I get it. No excuses this time. I'm going to start on these cookies, so why don't you guys order dinner so you don't fill up on junk." Vi takes the bag of chips from Powder.
"Buzzkill." Powder rummages through the bags for another snack. "We're hungry now. Do you have anything else good?"
"Munch on this." Vi hands her the containers from earlier. "Cassandra packed us some food before I left."
Powder opened it, "It's like a mini charcuterie board in here. It's good to know your mother-in-law likes you."
"She's just being nice." Vi knows Cassandra likes her, but she doubts Cassandra likes her enough for Vi to date her daughter.
"I'm just saying." Powder says while chewing.
"Well, say less." Powder threw a piece of cheese at Vi. Vi flipped her off and laughed, "Okay, order food, and I'll start baking."
They ate dinner and a large portion of the cookies. Vi would have to make more tomorrow. The movie was playing, but Vi wasn't paying attention. She was too busy fighting off sleep. Ekko was already asleep in their recliner. Powder had her head on Vi's lap. Powder wasn't asleep, but also not watching the movie.
Powder looked up at Vi, "You're happy, right?"
Vi peeked down at her sister, "Very, Powpow." Vi knew where this was going with one look at her sister. When Powder is stressed about school, she tends to spiral. Blaming or putting too much pressure on herself because Vi sacrificed so much to give Powder opportunities Vi never had. Powder thinks that if she fails, even a little bit, all their hard work will be for nothing. "You doing okay? You happy with school and everything?"
"Yeah, I love engineering. Working with my hands and building anything I want is great. It's the writing part that sucks." Powder grabbed one of Vi's arms and tucked herself into Vi's side. "I just want to do it right. I want it to be worth it all."
"As long as you're happy doing it, then it's worth it. That's all I care about." Vi just pulls Powder onto her lap like they did when they were younger. Powder will always be her kid sister.
"I want you to be happy, too," Powder says, hugging Vi's arm. It's been almost four years." Powder doesn't need to explain what she is talking about. Vi hasn't seriously dated anyone since Sarah, the girl both sisters loved but left them broken-hearted.
Vi was head over heels for Sarah. Vi really thought she lucked out with her. She introduced Sarah to Powder, and Sarah became another older sister to Powder. The three of them would hang out together all the time. Vi was so happy and didn't think anything could go wrong.
When Powder started college, Sarah was surprised Vi would work to support her. They had fought before, but this was a blowout. Sarah thought Vi would have more free time once Powder went to college. Vi explained that she wouldn't let Powder work and attend school full-time. Sarah said she was coddling her, but Sarah just didn't get it. Sarah came from a wealthy background and never had to worry about money. Vi and Powder had to work for every cent and every opportunity. It was an easy choice if Vi had to work more so Powder could focus on school. It was easy because if one of them was going to make something of themselves, it would be Powder. Too smart for her own good since they were little.
Sarah left Vi because she didn't want to be tied down to someone with so much responsibility. Sarah gave Vi a choice, and Vi always chose Powder. Sarah never wanted to be a second choice.
Vi couldn't understand how Sarah thought she would just up and leave Powder just because she turned 18. Powder blamed herself for the breakup, saying Vi had sacrificed too much already. Vi never saw it as a sacrifice. Vi never saw Powder as a burden; she loved her little sister. The breakup hurt Vi, but it hurt Powder more, and that broke Vi's heart.
Since then, Vi has been too scared to date seriously. If she brought someone else around and introduced them to Powder, what if they saw her as a burden and left, too? Vi couldn't handle that again. It was easier this way for now.
Vi held Powder close, "I know, but I promise you I am happy."
Powder nodded, "Good, but promise to be open to someone new. I want someone to take care of you, and I can handle it if you bring someone new home. It was just hard with her because I was younger. It was different, but I want you to be happy. You do so much for me."
Vi cut her off, "Shhh, it's okay. You're rambling now, but I get it, and I promise to try."
"Good because Ekko makes me happy, and I want that for you too." They both look at him, still asleep and oblivious to the sister's conversation.
When nights are dark and quiet like this, confessions spill between them. In the daylight, life is happening, and it is chaotic for both of them. Nights like these are nice for checking in and catching up, just as they used to be.
Powder and Ekko went to bed, and Vi cleaned up a bit. She couldn't sleep after talking to Powder. Vi hadn't thought about Sarah in a while, and maybe she was putting too much pressure on herself. It's not as if she had much time outside her job, but she could make an effort for the right person.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
A few weeks later, Vi was putting files away when she heard the Councilor mumbling at her computer. Vi had worked here long enough to know Cassandra needed to talk out whatever was bothering her.
Vi sat at the edge of the desk, "Bad news, or someone did something annoying?"
"Bad news." Cassandra sat back in her chair, still staring at the screen. "Marcus's brother is the judge of Caitlyn's ridiculous custody case."
Vi knew the name was familiar, "He was the corrupt deputy under Grayson, right?"
"Correct. I'm sure Judge Hii was more than happy to take the case for a little payback." Cassandra looked at Vi. "You had custody of Powder from a young age. If you don't mind me asking, how did that go for you?"
Vi rubbed the back of her neck, a little thrown off by the question. "It wasn't hard for me. Zaun and Piltover have very different legal systems. And Zaun, 10 years ago, barely had one. When I turned 18, I filed and set a court date. Since no one was there to fight me for custody, the Judge didn't waste any time signing the paperwork." Cassandra listened carefully, not judging or pitying. Vi was grateful. She didn't need her boss pitying her. "Besides, the situations are too different. I don't think I can be much help."
"Oh no, don't worry, we'll figure it out. I'm sure of it." Cassandra gave Vi a small smile. "You and Powder are close, and I know it was hard for you two growing up. I'm not entirely sure what I was asking, I guess. Was it hard keeping each other together?"
Vi understood what she was asking, "I did everything I could to keep us together." Vi chose her following words carefully. She cleared her throat, "I would do anything to keep us together. I question my choices every day, but I stand by my actions, even though I feel condemnable for most of them."
Cassandra leaned forward and patted Vi's arm. "Thank you for sharing. I'm sure whatever you did was for good reason. You have a good heart, Vi. That is why I hired a random temp with little experience as my new PA." They both let out a little laugh, recalling the night. "You stayed late after my previous PA quit. Everyone had left, but you saw me struggling and stayed. I believe in character, and that showed me exactly what I was looking for."
"And look at us now, nearly four years later." Vi can barely believe it's been that long. She's only had to work one job to support herself and Powder for four years. It feels surreal looking back on how she used to work three or four jobs just to make ends meet. "I'm glad I said yes. You guys have been great, not only to me but to Powder."
"Have you thought about what you will do once Powder finishes school?" Cassandra goes back to working on her computer.
Vi doesn't know what to make of the question. "What do you mean?"
"Vi, you're a wonderful assistant, but you are too talented to stop at a PA." Cassandra must see the worry on her face. "Oh dear, I didn't mean it like that. You will always have a job with us. I was curious if you had endeavors for yourself."
Vi could barely say, "I never really thought about it. I like what I do with you, and I don't have any real qualifications."
"Tobias and I are more than happy to help. I'm sure Tobias would be happy to have you as a manager at the Kiramman Foundation." Cassandra gives her a reassuring smile. "It's no pressure, Vi. As I mentioned, you will always have a job with us if you wish. The job doesn't have to be my PA."
Vi was touched by the genuine offer, "Thank you, I'll think about it."
Cassandra nodded, "Good. Now, let's review the guest list for the gala this weekend. You'll be able to be there, correct?"
Vi smiled at Cassandra's ability to switch to work mode, "Yeah, I'll be there."
- - - - - - - - - - - -
The gala came too quickly. Vi had spent the morning running around getting dresses and suits. Cassandra even had Vi fitted for one. She was in one of the guest rooms, looking in a mirror. She was wearing a charcoal gray suit with the Kiramann colors, blue and gold, accenting it. Vi felt a little dressed up for a PA, but Cassandra insisted. She said Vi could only wear the same shirt to these events so many times.
Vi was getting so frustrated with the tie that she gave up on it. She put her sweaty clothes in her bag and left to find Tobias. Surely, he could tie it for her. She was walking around looking for him when she saw Caitlyn and Claire in the kitchen.
Claire was sitting on the counter while Caitlyn leaned over it, Vi's brownies between them. Caitlyn was wearing a floor-length dark blue dress and gold jewelry. Vi stopped completely. The dress cut low with her hair tied in a tight blue bun, showing off her back. She was so effortlessly stunning, giggling and sharing bites straight from the pan with Claire. Vi could look at her all day and then dream about her at night. Powder's conversation from a few weeks ago suddenly popped into her head. Vi could only dream of dating Caitlyn. She pushed the thoughts from her head and walked into the kitchen.
Vi made a tsking noise. "Caitlyn Kiramann eating straight from the pan, teaching good habits, I see." Vi waves at Claire, who waves back but turns back to the brownies.
Caitlyn looked up with a huge grin, "Only the best." Vi doesn't miss the way Caitlyn's eyes linger over her. Vi forgot she wasn't in her typical slacks and button-up. Caitlyn's stare made Vi flush. Caitlyn must have realized what she was doing and cleared her throat, "Mother is in her office."
Vi rubbed the back of her neck. "I'm actually looking for your father." Vi held up the tie, looking defeated. "I need a little help."
"I'm unsure where he is, but I can help." Caitlyn walks over to stand in front of Vi. She takes the tie from Vi, and their hands touch. Vi has to calm her heart. She feels ridiculous that a slight touch can make her heart do that. Maybe Powder was right. It had been too long.
Caitlyn lifted Vi's collar and wrapped the tie around her neck. Vi's breath caught her throat. They had never been this close, this personal. Caitlyn was standing less than a foot from her. Vi gripped the side of the counter to steady herself. As Caitlyn worked on the tie, her hands grazed Vi's chest, and she wondered if Caitlyn could feel her heart pounding. Vi kept looking at her lips and had to make a conscious effort to look anywhere else.
Vi let her smooth her collar down, then the rest of the suit, so no wrinkles existed. Caitlyn picked at the invisible lint to linger and touch a little longer.
Caitlyn broke the silence between them, "The suit looks good on you. You should dress up more often."
Vi could feel how red her face was. "Thanks, but don't say it too loud and give your mother ideas."
"Ideas about what?" Cassandra's question made them jump apart. Neither of them had registered Cassandra's entrance into the room or heard the clanking of her heels.
Caitlyn walked over to Claire, "Nothing, Mother. Are you and Father ready to go?"
"Yes, the car is out front and waiting." Cassandra looked between her daughter and Vi. Vi felt a slight panic set in. What did the Councilor see or think she saw? "Vi, the suit looks good on you."
"Thank you. Caitlyn helped me with the tie," Vi added the last bit for clarity. She didn't want Cassandra to get the wrong idea, especially after discussing Vi's future.
She glanced down at the tie, "Excellent, will you be riding with us?"
Vi shakes her head, "I was planning on driving since you won't need me after the gala. I was going to go straight home."
"Then, we will see you there." She gave Vi a nod and a smile.
Vi beat the Kiramman driver to the gala and waited for the Kiramann family at the entrance. Vi had parked down the road and saw the Kiramman's car in the valet line. She stood to the side to avoid reporters. Vi always felt disconnected at events like these, where wealthy individuals spend a fortune to donate a fraction. The suit helped her blend in, but she can't even fathom how much it cost. Vi knew the Kiramanns meant well when they bought her things, but the suit felt suffocating and unlike her.
"What are you doing here all by yourself?" a cute blonde interrupted Vi's thoughts.
Vi faces her, "Actually, I'm working."
"Looks like we're in the same boat." She obviously looks Vi up and down before holding out a hand. "Jess."
What was happening? Vi wasn't sure what to make of Jess, but she was cute. It had been a minute since Vi flirted, but the way Jess was looking at her made it obvious.
"Vi." She smiled and shook Jess's hand, "So, what lucky straw did you draw to be working tonight?"
"Seeing if there's any good stories, but I'll take talking to a cute girl." A reporter, of course, she was a reporter. Vi knew not to mess with them. Jess could have had good intentions, but it was not a risk Vi was willing to take. Vi had seen what reporters were willing to do to the Kiramman family for a story. "Any plans for after_?" Vi had to shut down this interaction. Thankfully, she saw the Kiramman car pull up.
She cut off Jess, "Sorry, duty calls." She waves to the Kiramanns as they get out. "It was nice talking to you. Enjoy the rest of your evening." Vi was already walking away as she finished her sentence.
Vi approaches them at the entrance. "Good evening, Councilor." Vi turns to the others to address them. "Sir and Miss Kiramman, it's good to see you as well." Caitlyn just rolls her eyes at Vi's formality. Mr. and Mrs. Kiramann are better at hiding their amusement toward her. Vi was just professional, but it was funny, considering she was just getting ready at the mansion with them.
Caitlyn was staring at the blonde Vi was talking to, "You know her?"
Vi didn't need to look back to know who she was referring to. "Just meet her. A reporter, she seems nice enough."
Caitlyn stared at the blonde, then at Vi. She placed a hand on Vi's shoulder. "Maybe keep your distance. The nice ones are the worst." Caitlyn's voice sounded cold and something else. Jealous, maybe? Not quite, but close.
"Nothing to worry about, I promise." Vi wanted to reassure her and the other Kirammans that they had nothing to worry about. Vi was loyal, and they knew that.
Cassandra spoke behind Vi. "Of course, dear. We trust you, just not them. They can twist the simplest of words." Vi turned to see Cassandra looking at the reporter with distrust.
Tobias must have also felt the tension. "Why don't we move inside?" he asked Vi, looking understanding. He knew the Kiramman women better than Vi, so he had a better idea of what was going through their minds.
She turned her attention to the easiest Kiramman to read. "Lady Claire, how are you this fine evening?"
They moved inside, Claire taking Vi's hand and pulling her to the buffet table. Part of Vi's job was to keep an eye on Claire. Caitlyn and her parents would work around the room. Claire had to make a few appearances but was mostly bored unless there were other children or Vi. Vi would watch her or remind the Councilor of the donors' names. With the gala in full swing, Vi's job was pretty easy.
Vi did her job, and she did it well. When one of them was stuck in conversation, Vi would interrupt, giving them a chance to make an escape. Vi would linger on the edges of the room until needed. She couldn't help how often her gaze landed on Caitlyn. Vi knew her crush was pathetic. Pining for her boss's daughter was just silly. She was elegant and poise. Vi was more rough and unrefined.
Vi saw Cassandra wave her from across the room. Vi gave one last check on Claire, who was talking with another kid, before walking over. Cassandra excuses themselves and meets Vi halfway.
Vi grabs a champagne flute as the waiter passes by and offers it to Cassandra. "Councilor, what can I do for you?"
Cassandra takes the glass with a grateful nod. "I need a favor." Vi nodded, encouraging her to go on. "We are getting drinks with some donors at their hotel. It's across town. Could you take Caitlyn and Claire home? I'd hate for them to ride along for so long just to turn back or wait for the driver to return."
"It's no problem at all. Is Caitlyn aware of the change of plans, or shall I inform her?" Vi was more than happy to take them home. Vi had been to their place multiple times to drop off Claire. Their place was close to a Jericho's with a drive-thru. Vi could definitely go for a burger and a milkshake as a reward after the long night. Also, spending time with Caitlyn and Claire was a plus.
"Let her know. It shouldn't be an issue. We'll be on our way." Cassandra squeezed her shoulder and said softly, "Thank you, dear. You are always so reliable. Be careful getting home, please."
After a quick check on Claire, Vi went to find Caitlyn. With Cassandra and Tobias leaving, Vi was certain Caitlyn would be ready to leave. Vi heard Caitlyn laugh before she saw her. Vi made her way through the crowd to Caitlyn. When Caitlyn saw Vi approaching, her smile grew. Probably relieved that Vi was here to save her from whatever discussion.
Vi gently grabbed Caitlyn's arm to get her full attention. "Miss Kiramann, when you have a moment, please." Before Vi could pull away entirely, Caitlyn looped her arm with Vi's and gave a quick goodbye.
When they were far enough away, Caitlyn let out an exhausted groan and leaned her head against Vi's shoulder. Vi looked over at Caitlyn, her face slightly flushed from the alcohol and a few strands of her hair coming out of her bun. Vi resisted the urge to brush those strands behind her ear.
Vi really didn't understand their relationship. She thinks they were, at least, friends. They were close, but not. With Vi constantly at work, they spent a lot of time unintentionally together. Vi didn't come from Caitlyn's world, but she understood it. It's probably the reason Caitlyn felt comfortable with Vi. Caitlyn didn't need to explain anything. Vi dealt with it through Cassandra's work and saw the gray area between all the black and white.
Vi walked them towards Claire, "Your parents left to get drinks with donors. They took the car, so I'm driving you guys home whenever you're ready."
Caitlyn waved Claire over, "Well, if they left, we can definitely go." Claire joined them, and Caitlyn bent down, "You ready to go, Claire Bear?" Claire could only give a sleepy nod, so Caitlyn scooped her up.
Vi grabbed their coats, and they exited the building, "I'm parked up the road. I can bring the truck around if you want."
Caitlyn waved her off, "I can walk. You are already driving us home when you should be going home yourself."
Vi shrugs and says, "I don't mind." Caitlyn tries wrapping Claire's coat around her shoulders, but it keeps falling off. "Here, let me." Vi takes her jacket and wraps it around Claire.
"Vi, you'll get sick." Caitlyn's voice was laced with concern.
"It's okay, the suit jacket is warm enough." Vi pulls her jacket tighter around Claire. "Ready?"
"Almost." Caitlyn looks around. Once she sees no one around, she tries to take her heels off. With Claire in her arms, it's difficult. Vi grabs Claire from Caitlyn and offers her hand so Caitlyn can steady herself while she takes off her heels. "Thank you, I can take her back."
"Nah," Vi says, starting to walk towards her truck. "Put your coat on before you catch a cold."
Caitlyn catches up to her, "You're being ridiculous. You're already doing too much." Vi shrugs at her. "Don't shrug your shoulders at me." Vi reflexively shrugs her shoulders again, making Caitlyn huff.
Vi laughs, "Really, Caitlyn, I don't mind. It reminds me of when Powder was little. She's all grown up and doesn't need her older sis carrying her to bed."
"Fine," Caitlyn huffs out.
"You really hate not getting your way, don't you?" Vi bumps her hip into Caitlyn's. She can't help herself from teasing Caitlyn.
"Oh, shut up." The words come out very posh, with no malice in Caitlyn's voice, just a fondness.
Vi slows down a little. The night air feels great after being in a stuffy crowd. They could hear a few cars in the distance, but besides that, it was a quiet night. They continue on in comfortable silence. Again, Vi doesn't fully understand their relationship, but maybe she doesn't need to.
They get to Vi's truck. She unlocks it and puts Claire in her car seat. They got an extra one when Vi started to consistently pick Claire from school or practices.
Vi stares at Claire, who is asleep and swallowed up in Vi's jacket. "How can she be so big and so small at the same time?"
"You really care about her, don't you?" Caitlyn says while peering over Vi's shoulder.
"Yeah, how could I not? She's a good kid." Vi thinks about Claire when she first met her. She had just turned three. Caitlyn had been struggling for the past year as a single mom. Cassandra had suggested that Caitlyn move across town to be closer so they could help. The Kiramanns felt bad asking Vi to pick up Claire from daycare or school. Vi didn't mind at all. When Powder and Vi were younger, Vi was focused on surviving; she never got to fully enjoy little Powder.
"It's annoying how much she adores you." Caitlyn bumped shoulders with her. "But I do appreciate it, nonetheless. Her other mother is so hot and cold with us, with her. I feel like a bad mom." Caitlyn let out an exhausted sigh. "This whole custody thing is stupid." Caitlyn pauses, "I'm sorry. You probably don't want to hear this."
"It's okay." Vi didn't know all the details, but she did care. "I mean, I get it. In a sense, the struggle to keep it together. You're not a bad mom. You only want the best for Claire." Vi opened the passenger door and stepped back. Vi didn't want Caitlyn to step on the gravel barefoot. "You can step on my foot instead of the gravel." She reaches out for Caitlyn before she can object. "Take my hand." Caitlyn did, and Vi put a hand on her waist, guiding her into the passenger seat. Vi let Caitlyn settle and gather her dress before she shut the door. Through the window, she saw Caitlyn giving her a smile. It wasn't the same as the ones from before when she was happy to see Vi, this one was softer.
As Vi slid into the driver's seat, Caitlyn said, "You're too good at this. You know that, right?"
"Too good at what?" Vi started the truck so it could start warming up.
Caitlyn gestures between her and Claire, "Taking care of people. When my mother asked you to drive us, I know you didn't hesitate. It is one of my favorite things about you. You're just good, too good sometimes." Vi didn't dare look at Caitlyn. She couldn't let her see how much the words flustered Vi.
Vi reaches up and opens the small compartment where she stored her glasses. She focuses on taking out her contacts and not Caitlyn's stare, trying to sound casual, "It's not as big of a deal as you guys make it out to be. Besides, dropping you off gives me an excuse to go to Jericho's."
"Before or after you drop us off?" Caitlyn leans over the center console and grabs Vi's glasses from her lap. "I didn't know you wore glasses."
Vi gave her a conspiratorial smile and said, "Before, obviously." Vi put a few drops in her eyes. "I had to start wearing contacts. I kept losing or breaking my glasses. I spent a whole year with cracked lenses after a fight." Vi laughed, thinking about her younger self.
Caitlyn returns the glasses, "Of course, the Adventures of Ruffian Vi, the one-line stories. Glimpses into the past."
Vi laughs at Caitlyn's dramatics. "And will stay that way so I can keep my job."
Caitlyn pouts a little. "Fine, but I'll get you to spill your tall tales one day."
"I'm sure you will, too." They fall into a comfortable silence while Vi starts to drive through the streets towards Jericho's.
She keeps stealing glances at Caitlyn. She loves how the street lights flicker across Caitlyn's face, highlighting her cheekbones or brightening her blue eyes. Caitlyn seems deep in thought, watching out the window. A different mood from her teasing one from earlier.
Vi speaks softly, "Awfully quiet over there. Anything you want to talk about?"
"Sorry, sometimes I get lost in thought without meaning to." Caitlyn pulls her focus from the window to Vi.
Vi asks, "Is it about the custody thing?" Caitlyn nods her head. "We could talk about it if it helps."
Caitlyn glances at Claire in the back to ensure she's still asleep. "As I'm sure you know, I caught her cheating, which means, in short, in the divorce, she got nothing. The Kiramman name carries power in certain crowds. She lost essentially everything, and her reputation was irreparably damaged. She wants her lifestyle back and knows the best way to get to me is through Claire."
"If she got sole custody, would you go back to her? How can she even do that?" Vi focuses on driving, not how someone would use Claire in that manner.
"I would for Claire," Caitlyn says quietly while picking at her dress. "I'm not sure how she got Judge Hii on the case, but that's in her favor. She's also in a "committed" relationship. Stating she has a more stable home."
"What's with the air quotes?" Vi keeps her voice low so as not to wake Claire.
"She's been accusing me of dating someone, which triggered this custody battle. I have a gut feeling there's more to her plan, but I can't prove it." Even though Caitlyn is whispering, Vi can tell she is getting worked up. "The whole relationship is a front, I'm sure of it. She texts me from an unknown number, saying that she is sorry or that whoever I'm dating doesn't understand the world I'm from, but she does. She keeps trying to get me to take her back."
Vi interrupts to assure her. "And you won't have to. You're smart and have resources. I doubt Cassandra will let it happen. She's a sweet woman most of the time, but I've seen her with her claws out, and it's brutal."
This makes Caitlyn laugh a little bit, "Very true. Thank you for letting me rant."
"Of course, sometimes you need to say it aloud, and if it's any reassurance, I'm happy to help. Whatever it takes to keep Claire around." Vi didn't mention that she also wanted to keep Caitlyn around. She didn't want either of them to go. Her job was more fun with them there.
Caitlyn gives her another one of those soft smiles that makes Vi melt into the seat. "It is." Caitlyn sounds so vulnerable admitting it. Vi doesn't understand how someone could hurt her or Claire. They were both so sweet.
"I bet I can guess your order." Vi strokes her chin like she's deep in thought to shift the mood, "Let me guess, cheeseburger, double patty, extra pickles with sweet potato tater tots, and caramel shake? Tell me how close I am."
This makes Caitlyn roll her eyes at Vi again. She did this often, but she was never actually annoyed. "I was going to get onion rings, but now that you mention sweet potato tots."
"Damn, I'm good. I love being right." Vi orders for the three of them. Caitlyn insists on paying. They get their food and head to Caitlyn's, sharing tater tots out of the bag. Vi parks the truck and starts to get out.
Caitlyn grabs her arm, stopping her. "You don't have to get out."
Vi couldn't help the sarcasm in her voice. "Yeah, because I'm going to let you carry food and Claire, then let you unlock the door, with what hands?" Vi continued to get out. Caitlyn waited for her to open the door. "Making me give you the full service because I was right."
Caitlyn narrowed her eyes, "You're insufferably smug sometimes."
"I have to be with you Kiramanns. Me and Tobias are fighting for our lives here." Vi grabs Claire from the back. She's slightly awake from the vehicle stopping but happily sleeps on Vi's shoulder.
"Don't exaggerate." Caitlyn playfully smacks Vi's arm.
They walk into the house. Caitlyn places the food on the counter and takes Claire to her room. Vi sorts out her food into a separate bag.
Caitlyn enters the room a little while after, "I would invite you to stay, but you really should get home. I'm sure you're exhausted."
Vi stifles a yawn, "I'm not that tired."
Caitlyn laughs while pushing Vi out the door. "Sounds like it."
Vi turns around once she's outside. She wants to tease Caitlyn one last time before she leaves. Vi gives a little bow and mimics Caitlyn's posh accent, "Have a good evening, Miss Kiramman. I hope tonight was to your satisfaction." Vi looks up at Caitlyn. She's not laughing but looking at Vi with the fond expression she had before.
Caitlyn shakes her thoughts from her head and laughs, "You're ridiculous. Good night, Violet."
"Good night, Cait." With that, Caitlyn closed the door, and Vi stood momentarily, replaying the evening. It felt like a date. Vi hadn't been on one in a while, but it definitely bordered on a date. This crush was getting out of hand. Everything has been so confusing ever since Powder told her to meet someone new. Vi could usually make excuses for not dating. But tonight, when she returned to an empty apartment, Vi missed coming home to someone. Powder staying at school or Ekko's made the apartment less chaotic and homey.