KILLING CAITLYN (CODENAME JINX)

by Anonymous

Summary:

Caitlyn is supposed to catch the assasin. Instead, she’s falling for her.

 

Or

 

The Killing Eve AU.

Notes:

Yes, this is not going to be exactly the same as the og series., 😝If you see any language typos, my bad. There's a ton of sex, violence and multilingual shenanigans in this fanfic. Proceed with caution.

I hope you guys enjoy!

Chapter 1: WEAR THE PONYTAIL

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx walks down the streets of Vienna. The beautiful smell of the rain fills her nostrils, and she stops for a second. There's a Magnolia tree a few meters away from her, that she stops to admire upclose. Jinx leans in, inhaling the sweet scent of the flowers blooming around her. She takes a picture of it, and then continues with her walk. 

 

It's a beautiful spot, the one she's going in. A gorgeous sushi restaurant with exorbitant prices, and a warmth that she misses already. Jinx is wearing a blonde wig, with hair so long and sultry that it almost resembles her own. She goes to the bar, her makeup minimal, and her dress a bit too short. Her legs are on display, and she's twirling a lock of the blonde hair around her finger. 

 

She's bored, truly, while her gaze flicks toward the man across the room. Expensive suit, fat rings, a smug laugh like he owns Caitlynry girl who walked through the door. He has his arm around his girlfriend, who couldn't be older than 18. A girl who is visibly drugged to the point of delirium. Jinx wants to throw up. Until, at last, he meets her gaze. He's sleazy, a classic pervert who had never heard the word no. 

 

She watches him get close to her, walking over with a lazy grin. He tries to be charming, tries to flirt with her, and she's giving him bedroom eyes in return. 

 

“Buy me a drink.” Jinx tells him, lips curving up in a small smirk. 

 

He gives a curt nod at the bartender, ordering a drink. He leans into her, then, his bad breath against Jinx's face. “You're gorgeous. I could wrap both of my hands around a waist as slim as yours, easily. What's your name?”

 

“Amélie.” Jinx replies, leaning close, brushing her fingers across his chest. She can smell his cologne, and her eyes find his, piercing and decisive. She grabs the glass of wine being served for her, and swirls it. She doesn't take a sip, though, because she feels his hand run up her thigh, and it's disgusting. 

 

Jinx pulls him by the tie, and kisses his neck, sweet nibbles and sensual licks here and there. He grabs her waist like he promised, and Jinx pulls him away from the bar and towards the bathrooms. He lets himself be dragged away, until she's being pinned against the wall by him. 

 

She draps her arms around his neck, and her leg around his hip with ease. He grabs her toned thigh and grinds his hardened cock against her cunt, her dress riding up by his hands. 

 

“Wanna know a secret?” Jinx whispers, leaning towards his ear. 

 

He leaned in, expectant.

 

Her hand slips down, fingers brushing his thigh like a bug on a leaf. Jinx grabs the pin from her hair, and cuts a perfect line, as precise as she can. He doesn't notice it, no, and keeps groping her, until he gets a call. 

 

The ringing brings him out of his daze, and he tries to regain his breath. Then, he picks up the phone, and Jinx walks out of the restaurant in a split of a second. 

 

It's when she's long gone that he feels weak, his vision blurry. The person across the phone isn't making any sense, until... Erik collapses, the color drained from his face. And Jinx? She's walking away from the scene, twirling the pin in her hand as she hums to herself. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The clock ticks loud in the Kiramman estate’s master bedroom. It's a cold night, as it's usual for their arranged marriage, without an inch of cuddling or gratifying sex. Caitlyn lays on her side of the bed, silk sheets tucked perfectly around her, staring at her murder book in her hand. The house was silent save for the faint rustle of her husband playing on his X-Box, occasionally yelling insults. 

 

It was always like this.

 

Caitlyn isn't surprised. Her mother had been adamant in the marriage, but she doesn't enjoy coming home to this. She's going to turn 41 years old in a month, and for once, she wishes her life would be more than just this. Her mother offered her a high position in the Piltover forces, sure, but she didn't want that. She wanted to earn her own place, Caitlynn if she had to deal with Marcus. 

 

“You’re still playing.” Caitlyn murmurs, her voice low, not because she feared waking anyone, but because it felt wrong to disturb the silence that had become the third occupant of their marriage.

 

“Yes,” Matias replies without looking at her. “You know how Call of Duty gets."

 

A pause.

 

"Would you like to join me?" She asks, wary as ever. 

 

“I’d rather not.” Matias says, eyes focused on the TV. "Pero no me rompas las pelotas!" 

 

Her husband would yell like this sometimes. She's learnt enough Spanish to hold a conversation with ease, but she doesn't enjoy him yelling at this hour. He's a noble, wealthy and from a good family. But Caitlyn can't enjoy a single night with him. There's sex, of course, but rarely. And it's as dull as an old knife. 

 

Caitlyn turns to her side, wrapping her cover over her body like so. Her chest aches with a familiar frustration, the kind that isn’t sharp enough to wound, only heavy enough to press. She knows this is her duty—her family had chosen him, she had agreed, and together they made a picture of respectability. That was all that was asked of her.

 

But gods, was it empty.

 

“You should rest.” Matias speaks, his tone polite and impersonal; as if he were speaking to a colleague instead of one of the most attractive women in Piltover. 

 

“I will,” she replies. 

 

No arms pulled her closer. No lips sought her skin. No desire hummed between them. Just silence. And the faint buttons of the controller being pressed on frustration. 

 

Caitlyn could almost laugh at the absurdity of it all. Sure, her parents were proud, society approves of this, Caitlynry noble family whispers about how fortunate the Kirammans were to have secured such a stable match for the matriarch of their house. A stable match. Matias Hoffmann is handsome in Caitlynry way, making women swoon in Buenos Aires and the world at the moment. That was the phrase Caitlynryone used. As if marriage were a business transaction, not a beating heart. Not a desire, not a connection between two souls. 

 

But her parents are dead now, and Caitlyn doesn't have an heir yet. And a part of her wants to say fuck it all, and find someone better... Someone who wants her. Truly wants her. 

 

“Buenas noches.” Matias mutters. 

 

“Buenas noches.” she echoes.

 

Caitlyn feels herself drifting away into a deep slumber, cold and alone. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Paris smells of piss and trash, but Jinx doesn't mind. It's not her favorite place to be, no but it's not as bad as her last apartment in Zaun. The city is gorgeous at this time of the year, with the spring rain wetting her designer boots. 

 

Jinx walks past a bakery, and her blue eyes fall on the cashier. 

 

A warmth spreads through her body with ease. 

 

The woman is tall, with an elegant flow to her every step. Her eyes are piercing, intimidating to most people. But never Jinx, no. Never. She's got long hair, tied up in a beautiful ponytail, and Jinx's heart is jumping from the excitement. It's an older woman, for sure, around 45 or something. The gray hairs are as charming as her entire body language. She's dressed to impress, and what cements Jinx on the spot is the way her breasts are about to burst inside her shirt.

 

It's her type, and her body has made a decision before her mind has. 

 

Jinx fixes her hair, suckles on her mint, and enters the place with a confident strut. She looks at the waitress with determination, following her steps like a hawk. Jinx sits on a table near the window, and waits. 

 

“Bonjour,” the woman said in a smooth French accent, wiping her hands on her apron. "À quoi peux-tu servir?" [How can I serve you?] 

 

Jinx doesn't miss a beat. Her eyes are on her, her best charming smile in place. Jinx leans back, confident. "Donnez-moi une tarte au citron meringuée, un expresso et votre numéro, s'il vous plaît." [Give me a lemon meringue pie, an espresso, and your number, please.] 

 

The woman laughs softly, shaking her head. “Quel troublion, mon amor." [What a troublemaker, my love.]

 

"Mais tu aimes ça, n'est-ce pas? Comment t'appelles-tu, mon chérie?" [But you like it, don't you? What's your name, darling?]

 

"Victoire." She replies, twirling a strand of hair from her ponytail. 

  

Jinx ends up taking her home. By the time they reach Jinx’s flat, the door barely clicked shut before their laughter turned into kisses. They undress in a hurry, and kiss with a hunger that makes the bed shake beneath them. By the way her slender fingers caress her body, Jinx knows she's down for the best ride of her life. She moans into her ear, wrapping her legs around her waist and enjoying the tongue against her skin. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The precinct is almost empty at this hour. It's almost nine, in a typical rainy day. London is always gloomy, but today the city feels on the edge of winter. Caitlyn is almost done with her report, and her work will be done in half an hour, if she's lucky. 

 

She opens her phone, checking on her notifications. She has a text from Matias, an unfunny meme that she's grown used to receive. She doesn't play league of legends, so she just pretends to understand why it's funny that Miss Fortune is flirting with someone. She gives a heart reaction to it, to avoid ignoring Matias altogether. 

 

Caitlyn tosses her phone to the side, and opens a family-sized bag of chips, that she plans on eating by herself. She's waiting for her shift to be done, so she can go home and finally rest.

 

Mel walks past her desk, and eyes the bag of chips with keen intensity. She meets Caitlyn's gaze with a daring smirk, and slides her lender fingers over the mahogany wood. 

 

"Don't you dare." Caitlyn warns. 

 

But Mel does not care about empty threats. "Do not stop me, Kiramman."

 

She reaches just so, leaning over the desk and smiling at Caitlyn. Her left hand reaches into the bag, and she grabs a single chip, golden and crispy. Mel eats it, a crunch echoing through their shared office, and a chewing noise that makes Caitlyn crave for it. All of this, while maintaining eye contact and moaning at the taste of it. 

 

"Did you have to eat it so sultry and alluring?" Caitlyn replies, rolling her eyes as she grabs her own chip, eating it. 

 

"Don't pretend you don't know my ways, darling. This is how I have a wife."

 

Caitlyn chuckles, fixing her glasses with the hand that's still clean. "Do you have any new cases for me, love?" 

 

Mel leans next to Caitlyn's desk, sitting on the edge as she steals a second chip. She opens her mouth to answer, but she doesn't say anything. She's interrupted by the heavy boots against the concrete floors of the precinct. They both turn, curious to see who's arrived. And their eyes meet the agent's gray ones. 

 

Caitlyn recognizes Grayson, of course. She's seen her before in the precinct. MI6, best of the best. 

 

Grayson doesn't come to work at this time of the night, let alone in such a hurry. Her stern gaze falls on Caitlyn, giving her a nod in acknowledgement. She's accompanied by her partner, Marcus, and she carries a folder in her hands. 

 

"Kiramman. Medarda." Marcus greets them, his voice cold. 

 

"We have a new case." Grayson points out, waving her folder. 

 

"Is it the Zaunite politician and sex trafficker?" Mel asks. 

 

"Precisely." Marcus answers. 

 

They both follow after her, chips being left behind. Grayson keeps talking as the four of them walk down the hallway in a hurry. 

 

"Erik. 56 years old. He's been assassinated in Vienna yesterday afternoon." 

 

They enter the meeting room, and sit down on their seats, opposite of each other. Caitlyn sits next to Mel, and Grayson sits across her, next to Marcus. 

 

Caitlyn watches as Grayson opens her folder, showing them a picture. Caitlyn's eyes analyze it like a hawk. He's ugly, fat and too bald, but what shocks her is the woman sitting next to him. No, that's not a woman... 

 

"That's a teen." Caitlyn points out, disgust on her face. The girl couldn't be older than 18.

 

"They saw him in a restaurant with his girlfriend, Martina, eating sushi. Somehow, the assassin managed to slice Erik's femoral artery with a blade; which, by the way, neither him or his girlfriend noticed. He bled out in a minute, collapsed on the floor in the middle of a phone call."

 

Grayson take sout a picture of the body, and she sees it then. His body collapsed on the ground, blood pooling under him. Then, a photo of the autopsy, with the perfect cut to his thigh. 

 

"A woman." Caitlyn mutters under her breath. 

 

"I'm sorry?" Grayson asks, who didn't catch her words. 

 

Caitlyn shakes her head. "Nothing. I apologize. Please continue."

 

"Right." Grayson nods. "Okay. His girlfriend is the only witness, but she fled the scene. Interpol traced her here to the UK. She was picked up in Hammersmith this morning and needs protection. She's currently still too high to talk, as she's been drugged by him for months. So when she's clear, I need her interrogated. Get a Spanish interpretor for her." 

 

"Was there any CCTV of the murder?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

"No. It was just a blind spot." Marcus denies, shaking his head. 

 

Grayson starts putting her phone and paperwork away.

 

"Thank you for your time, ladies. The girl is quite traumatized. She’s the only witness. Be kind to her, will you?" 

 

"The meeting is dismissed." Marcus affirms.

 

Caitlyn watches as Grayson gets up from her seat, followed by Marcus. She clears her throat, eyes determined now. 

 

"I said it was probably a woman." 

 

Grayson stops in her tracks, eyes on Caitlyn's, and she seems interested. She looks tall and mighty under the white lights of the office. But she's not saying anything. So Caitlyn continues. 

 

"Erik was a misogynist and a sex trafficker. Such an ego blinds him from seeing women as equals, so he probably didn't feel in danger around a woman. It's more likely for a man like that to lower their guard around one." 

 

Marcus heads for the door.

 

"Thank you, Caitlyn." Grayson affirms with a nod. She walks out of the office, and Caitlyn finds herself smiling at the interaction. 

 

She leaves the office, followed by Mel, who's already calling to make sure there's guards protecting the witness. Something about the whole ordeal doesn't make any sense. Caitlyn can't say anything about it, but no CCTV for a murder doesn't make any sense. 

 

Caitlyn sits on her desk, then grabs a few chips, eating them as she eyes the witness's picture in her hands. 

 

"I want to meet that witness. If I'm right-" 

 

Marcus cuts her off. "No. Not your job. Get her secure and get her some clothes and give her some space to recover. Understood?"

 

Caitlyn gives him a glare, but nods. "Of course, sir."

 

They head out of the meeting room, and Caitlyn leans towards Mel as they walk back to their office. "I'm telling you, it’s a woman."

 

Mel giggles, rolling her eyes. "20 quid it's a man."

 

"You're on." Caitlyn replies. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx walks up to her apartment in Paris, eyes filled with joy. She eyes her elderly neighbor, who's struggling to get down the stairs, carrying her heavy trash bags. It's an old lady, with a limp and messy hair, and Jinx laughs at the sight. She takes out her key, and crouches slightly and taps her knees. 

 

It's like Jinx's encouraging a pet. 

 

"Allez, tu vas y arriver!" [Come on, you can do it!]

 

"Connasse!" [Asshole.] 

 

The old neighbor groans with the effort as she finally reaches the bottom of the stairs. She walks to the front door, and manages to open them despite the heavy bags in her hands. Meanwhile, Jinx is standing in her spot, amused. 

 

Jinx pouts at her, faking empathy for the elderly woman. "Tu veux de l'aide avec tes sacs?" [Do you want help with your bags?]

 

The old lady turns to her. "Connasse!" [Asshole!]

 

When the lady gets out of the building, Jinx gives her a last look. She drops her fake smile, and walks above the building. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx walks in to her apartment, sighing in delight at the sight. She dumps her keys on the bowl near the entrance, and walks into her bathroom. She opens the wardrobe door and places her blonde wig on a wig stand alongside all the others,combing it and adjusting it properly. 

 

She opens the below drawer. There are weapons in there: gun, knives and bullets on one side, shampoo bottles and tampons on the other. She begins taking off her jewelry, and looks at herself in the mirror. Jinx gets naked, changing into more comfortable clothes. She puts on a luxurious lilac robe, and combs her blue hair with her fingers. It's reaching the middle of her back now in length, flowing wonderfully with every step she takes. 

 

She gives herself a look in the mirror, checking for any imperfections on her skin. Jinx takes out he makeup box, and applies powder to her face. It's an excessive amount of it, making her paler than usual. Then, Jinx walks out to the living room, and takes a bottle of pills from the cabinet. She empties the pills on the coffee table, spread out at random. Jinx picks up a bottle of vodka and slouches back onto the couch, trying out different poses of death.

 

She giggles to herself.

 

She glances up at the sound of the front door opening, and immediately begins to act like she's dead. 

 

Silco enters the apartment, looking for Jinx as he whistles. He listens to the music then walks through the flat, glancing into the empty bedroom. He enters the living room where he sees Jinx appearing to be lying dead on the sofa. 

 

Silco turns off the radio and looks over at her, frowning. She's looking pale, with pills and alcohol around her. 

 

"Jinx."

 

No movement or reply and so he steps closer.

 

"Jinx."

 

Still nothing. 

 

"I can see you breathing."

 

He stares at her, leaning into her, waiting. Then, suddenly, Jinx jumps up in a millisecond, screaming loud and clear. She just wants to scare him. 

 

Silco jumps a tiny bit and shouts. "Aaaaaah!" 

 

They both laugh.

 

"I..."

 

"I got you." Jinx giggles, poking Silco's shoulder. 

 

"Yes." He sighs in annoyance, dusting off his jacket. 

 

"A bit! Admit it! A tiny bit!" 

 

"A tiny bit, yes." He grins at her. 

 

"Were you scared?" Jinx asks him. 

 

"No." Silco denies. 

 

"Did you think I was dead?"

 

"No."

 

"Would you be sad?"

 

"Of course." He replies, but his answer is empty. 

 

"Hahahaha! You should've seen your face." She cups his face in her hands, and Silco looks unimpressed. "Got your ass!"

 

She grins and walks over to the sofa.

 

"How was Vienna?" Silco asks her. 

 

"It was boring, that's what. He didn't even notice the cut and I left before I could see him die. But the job's done."

 

"Of course." Silco nods. "Good. That's a good kill, Jinx. Here, they want me to give you this."

 

Silco takes out a stash of bills. Then, he takes out a smaller stash of bills, placing them both on the table. 

 

"50.000 euros like we promised you. And 10.000 extra."

 

Jin grabs the cash, counting the bills and giving Silco a raise of her eyebrow. "Did I get a bonus? For being such a good girl?" 

 

Silco nods. "Oh yes, of course. That, and they want you to do another job."

 

"When?" 

 

"We need you to go to Italy; tomorrow." He hands her a postcard. "All the information is on there." 

 

"Fine. I hope this one is more fun than the Vienna one." Jinx rolls her eyes, putting the money in her pocket and grabbing the postcard. "This is getting boring. You know I like the twitchy deaths the most."

 

"I'm certain you can have some fun with this guy. Just don't blow anything up, you hear me? I know that's your favorite kill, but it's best to lay low with this one. And hey, Tuscany will be beautiful. Find a handsome Italian to spend the night with." 

 

"You want to come with me?" Jinx asks him. 

 

"No." Silco shakes his head. "You're going to have to do this yourself." 

 

"Can I take someone else then?"

 

He gives her a look. 

 

"I just want someone to play with." Jinx sighs out, bored. "You know it's fun if someone's with me."

 

"You play in Tuscany all you can, then. You have my permission. Just no bombs for this kill." Silco gets up form his seat, patting Jinx's head like so. "Bye kid."

 

She shouts after him, watching him leave. "Bye Silco!" 

 

The door closes behind him. 

 

Jinx looks at the pack of money and postcard, raises an eyebrow and sighs in annoyance. She then sits down at her laptop. She studies the postcard, on the front are pictures on Tuscany and on the back is the message:

 

Miss You

 

She puts the postcard down on the table and types into her laptop, the code printed on the side of the card:

 

R008H77102986

 

Suddenly a stream of information floods the screen. It's an address, a bunch of pictures and his information, including a smiling picture of Cesare Greco and his villa. Jinx stares at the picture of the old man, and whistles at the sight of him. 

 

"Aw. He's a dilf."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn is sitting on her office desk, reviewing some reports and analyzing some information. The night is still young, with the sun barely setting. Mel walks up to her desk, and sits next to Caitlyn with ease. She runs her hand down Caitlyn's arm in greeting, and smiles at her. 

 

"What do you have for me?" 

 

"Ok, so her name is Martina Giordano. She's 18 years old, from Tucumán, Argentina. She's been missing since she was fifteen. And we’ll need two officers on each shift." Caitlyn tells her. "Where is she now?" 

 

"She's still at the Hammersmith station, dove."

 

"Really? Hammersmith?" Caitlyn replies, eyebrows furrowed in deep thought. "Still?" 

 

"Yeah. Why?"

 

"So she's still there." Caitlyn ponders to herself, giving Mel a look, and then looking at her watch. She's deep in thought. 

 

"Yes. The girl is still drugged, so she's not in good condition for any interrogation. You know this."

 

Caitlyn sighs, nodding. She leans back on her chair, reading the girl's file and debating. He remind is made before Mel has a chance to say anything else, though. 

 

"Ok. Um... you know I’m gonna, I'm gonna pop down there quick." Caitlyn replies, eyes meeting Mel's in a silent plea.

 

"Caitlyn." Mel asks, hand on her shoulder. "What are you up to, dove?" 

 

"No reason." Caitlyn replies, smiling at her reassuringly. "Just get those officers assigned to her and I'll sign off. Can you help me with that, darling?" 

 

Caitlyn gets up from the chair, and grabs her coat, putting it on as she looks at Mel. She combs her hair with her fingers, letting it flow down. 

 

"Alright. You owe me 20 quid, by the way."

 

Caitlyn frowns, turning her head to the side. "What are you blabbering about?" 

 

"20 quid. Marcus said that the CCTV from Vienna turned up. It was a man."

 

"What? How? Since the meeting this morning?" Caitlyn rubs her hand against her jaw, confused. "How's that even possible?"

 

"Yeah. Marcus gave us the information."

 

"No, he said there wasn't any-"

 

"20 quid, don't be stingy now." Mel teases. "I know we're rich, but still."

 

Caitlyn frowns, looking into space, worried. If there was no CCTV before, how can there be a video now? Is it because she asked for it? 

 

"Have you seen it?" Caitlyn replies. "The video?" 

 

"Of course not." Mel replies. 

 

"Why not?" Caitlyn rolls her eyes, taking out her purse and giving Mel a 20£ bill. She looks determined, though. "Find me that tape. And please, don't tell Marcus where I am or what I'm doing, darling. You're the best, I love you." 

 

"Oh I know I'm the best." Mel replies, smirking as she leans back on her chair. "My lips are sealed."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn sits in front of Martina, her eyes focused on her lips trying to read them. She's not that good in Spanish, not as good as Matias, no. Next to them, the interpreter sits in a different chair. She's never wrong about a hunch, so she just needs to ask her... 

 

Caitlyn is recording everything with her phone, of course. 

 

Martina moves her head, speaking words Caitlyn can recognize, Caitlynn when she's so high. Then, she gets serious, and speaks. 

 

"Qué se yo, pelotuda... La re concha de tu hermana..." [What do I know, dumbass? Your sister's fuckass cunt... ] 

 

Caitlyn can't stop the small smile on her lips, but she gets serious again. She likes that she understands her enough. 

 

"I'm sorry. She's unintelligible. She's mainly swearing." The interpreter says. 

 

"Oh that's alright, I understand." Caitlyn tells her. "I just need to know if she's aware of anyone who might want to harm her while she’s in the country? Can you ask her that, please?" 

 

"¿Sabes si hay alguien en Inglaterra que te quiera hacer daño?" [Do you know of anyone in England who might want to hurt you?]

 

Martina starts to sing a song. "Todos yiran y yiran..." [Everyone spins and spins... ]

 

"Has she mentioned Vienna? Or anything about her boyfriend's killer?" Caitlyn asks the interpreter. Martina blabbers in the background. "Ask her if it was a man or a woman."

 

"¿Fue un hombre o una mujer?" [Did you see a man or a woman?]

 

Martina laughs on her spot, spinning on her chair, eyes dilated. "Una mina hegemónica con dos huevos fritos de tetas... Psicópata hija de las re mil putas..." [A hegemonic girl with two fried eggs for tits... A psycho daughter of a thousand whores...]

 

She sighs. Caitlyn doesn't know Spanish to understand what she means. 

 

Caitlyn sighs, nodding to herself before getting up. She speaks out, with a naturality in her accent that it's almost native. "Anda a dormir, Martina." [Go to sleep, Martina.]

 

The interpreter looks taken aback, looking at Caitlyn with curiosity. "Oh, you speak Spanish too?"

 

"Actually, as a matter of fact... My husband is Argentinian. So, you know, I’ve just learned enough to get by through the years, thanks to him and his family." Caitlyn explains. "Thank you for your cooperation. Please tell Edwin that we need to transfer her to the hospital."

 

"Alright, officer Kiramman."

 

Caitlyn smiles at Martina, then at the interpreter, before she bows and leaves the place. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn enters her house, and the smell of barbecue fills her nostrils. Say what you want about Matias, but his cooking skills were out of this world. She can smell it, "Asado" with his family that she's a bit late for. She takes out her jacket, combs her hair as well as she can, looking at herself in the mirror near the entrance of the mansion. She makes sure she doesn't have any stains, and walks out to the backyard. 

 

His family greets her with loving hugs and kisses, giving her a glass of wine and a couple of empanadas to pre-game for the meat feast coming afterwards. She greets his mother, his siblings and their kids, loving Caitlynryone more than she's Caitlynr loved Matias. She goes to greet him after that, glass of wine in her hands. She tries to kiss his cheek, and he gives her a hug, short and sweet. But empty of any love. 

 

The Kiramman backyard has several tables with everyone talking and joking. There's drinks, a football game that they're watching in Caitlyn's huge TV. She sits next to her sister in law Sofia, a beautiful woman, now 35 years old and married. She's focused on Caitlyn now, and Caitlyn admits she's been one of her best friends throughout the years. 

 

"Mi amor, vení acá." Sofia calls out. She pats the seat next to her, and Caitlyn sits down on the spot with a smile on her lips. "¿Qué tenés?" [My love, come over. What's wrong?] 

 

Caitlyn smiles, sipping on her wine with a hum of her lips. "Hey darling. It's just a case that's stressing me out. Nothing much. How are you doing?"

 

"Todo bien, me conseguí un trabajo en un restaurante precioso. Le voy a andar cocinando a estrellas, boluda." [All good, I got a job in a beautiful restaurant. I'm going to be cooking for stars, dummy.]

 

Caitlyn grins proud, raising her glass and clinking it against Sofia's. "Felicitaciones. Te lo mereces, amor." [Congratulations. You deserve it, love.]

 

Sofia leans on Caitlyn's shoulder, clinking their glasses and drinking a little bit of wine with her. Caitlyn follows her on it, and they both stay in a comfortable silence, as they hear the cheers. Messi has scored. 

 

Caitlyn turns to Sofia, looking a bit shy. "Uh... Can you please help me out with Argentinian Spanish?" 

 

"¡Pero si has mejorado un montón! Claro, claro. ¿Qué querés que te enseñe?" [But you've gotten so much better. Of course, of course. What do you want me to teach you?] 

 

Caitlyn sighs, taking out a tobacco cigar from her purse. She cuts the tip of it, and lights it up. She takes a big smoke from it, before sharing it with Sofia. "I'm having a bit of a problem with understanding slang. Is it okay if I show you a recording? It's... It's a witness that is too high to be understood. She's Argentina. But she mentioned something that I couldn't understand."

 

Caitlyn takes out her phone, and Sofia keeps smoking the cigar. The air around them is a bit sunny, as sunny as London can be, perfect for the barbecue. She gives Sofia one of her headphones, and plays the recording.

 

"Va. ¿Te traduzco todo?" [Alright. Do I translate anything?] 

 

Caitlyn shakes her head. "No, it's not necessary. Just the slang she used when I asked if it was a man or a woman who killed her boyfriend. If you can, please."

 

Sofia stays in silence, and Caitlyn takes the cigar from her giving it a smoke as they listen to the recording. Caitlyn indulges enough, grabbing an empanada and eating it in two big bites. 

 

"Ah... Está drogadisima, no..." [She's quite high, isn't she?] 

 

Caitlyn nods. "Yes. She's a victim of sexual trafficking."

 

"Ah... Claro. Si, fue una mujer. Que es lo que no entiendes?" [Ah, or course. It was a woman. What is it that you didn't understand?] 

 

"Dos huevos fritos..." Caitlyn replies, trying her best to say it properly. "What does that mean?" 

 

Sofia gives her a look, and laughs. She points to Caitlyn's chest, smirking. "Si yo te digo que tenés dos huevos fritos de tetas, es que no tenés nada de tetas, boluda." [If I say you have two fried eggs for tits, it means you got no tits at all, dummy.]

 

Caitlyn opens her eyes wide in shock, processing the information. So it was a woman, and a flat-chested one, no less. 

 

"She's saying it was a flat-chested psychopath piece of shit." Sofia says, taking out the earphones from her ears and giving them to Caitlyn. "And a woman."

 

Caitlyn leans in, giving Sofia a hug, tight enough to crush. "Thanks, my love."

 

Sofia grins, hugging her back. "De nada, cariño." [You're welcome, darling.]

 

Caitlyn leans back on her chair, and then Matias comes to her spot, handing her a plate full of barbecue and chumichurri. She's smiling up at him, Caitlynn if his eyes are cold. And she digs in, eating it without a word. He turns around without saying anything, he doesn't need to. Just his presence is cold enough.

 

But in Sofia's eyes, she can see pity. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn is in the kitchen, and she's dialing Mel's phone in a hurry. She's waiting for her to pick up. 

 

"Hey, darling." Mel answers. "Fancy talking to you again so soon. How can I help you?" 

 

Caitlyn smiles. "Hey, dove. Are you still at the office?" 

 

"Yes, why? What do you want from me?"

 

Caitlyn sighs. "Okay. Can you pull Margit Polsen from the registry? And any other active female assassins under the age of 45. Please."

 

Caitlyn hears typing over the phone, and Mel hums in her ear. "Ok. Hold on." The details come up on her screen. "Alright, I have her file." 

 

"Alright, tell me. How big are her tits?"

 

Mel laughs on the other side of the line, sultry as ever. "Caitlyn. I know you're into assassins, but... Have you realized certain aspects about yourself lately? Is this your autistic way of coming out to me?"

 

Caitlyn rolls her eyes. "Mel, please."

 

Mel gives her a sensual laugh, and her voice becomes sultry as usual. "Darling, she's got massive tits. I'm certain they bounce when she walks. They're a juicy pair, and I'm sure her nipples are just as big. Is that turning you on? Is this getting you wet?" 

 

"Thank you. Please stop tormenting me, Mel. Are there any other assassins on file?"

 

"There are just two more on record; I'm just pulling them up. Erm, Katrina Voltrinski and Wendi Helmsen... They're both dead. What's all this about?"

 

"Ok, thank you Mel. Oh and don't tell anyone I asked for that. I'll explain it to you over lunch tomorrow. What do you say?"

 

"Of course. All our hotlines are completely confidential, madam." Mel teases, alluring as usual. "And we can definitely have lunch together. Just don't tell Sevika you're into women now, she might start getting jealous now that I know you're not as straight as I thought."

 

"Piss off." Caitlyn replies, hanging up. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx speeds through roads of Tuscany on top of a black muscle motorbike. The sun is above her, shining bright as usual, tanning her skin like so. When she parks it, she goes in the shade, and eats a light snack before she gets to work. She grabs a slice of Sicilian bread, smears pesto on it, and a piece of fresh Parmigiano Reggiano. She takes out a pair of binoculars, and looks at the villa while eating. 

 

She looks over at a huge, majestic, stone villa in the distance. A couple of cars kick up dust as they approach it. Between the trees, people are visible in the garden. They're dancing, talking and drinking food. Jinx takes the binoculars down from her eyes and places them in the motorbike seat. 

 

From her bag, she pulls out a hextech weapon, that she's been tinkering with for the past few days. It's adorable. 

 

She starts walking towards the Villa, hiding between the vines. 

 

Jinx darts from the tree-line across the gravel drive, looks up at the high wall and starts to climb the drainpipe. Once at the top, she pulls herself up onto the roof with zero effort, and goes inside the mansion through the door. 

 

Jinx walks down the corridor, glancing down over the balcony at the security guard that stands in the floor below. He doesn't notice her presence, oblivious to it all. She walks off and into one of the rooms. Jinx moves over to the open balcony doors, and looks out at the guests outside. She admires the garden from a distance, the endless guests around the flowers and trees. She admires the big pool, and the big tables with drinks and snacks. A live band plays a joyful song, and the guests dance along. 

 

Jinx narrows her eyes, searching the party guests, until at last, she finds him. Cesare Greco laughs as a few kids attack him with water pistols. 

 

She smiles to herself, and turns around into the room once more. She opens the closet, and sighs in disappointment. She expected someone so rich to have more fashion sense than this but... 

 

"Hey, bambini! Non potete andare lí." [Hey! Not allowed up here kids!]

 

The guard walks down the corridor, his steps echoing through the hardwood floor. He notices the wardrobe doors in the dressing room are wide open, but he doesn't see anyone in the room. He gives himself a onceover in front of the mirror, and walks away in silence. 

 

The room is left empty. After a moment, one of the suitcases falls on its side. A finger pokes out between the two zips and slowly the case begins to open. Then Jinx unfolds herself out of the case, effortless. She walks out to the balcony again, and Jinx sees Greco in the distance, playing around with a few kids, his grandchildren. 

 

"Nonno." They call. They use water pistols and water balloons, getting him wet from head to toes. It seems he's going to come to her, instead of the opposite. 

 

"Voglio cambiare la ropa. Un momento." [I'm going to change my clothes. One moment.]

 

Jinx fixes her clothes and hair, making sure she has her croptop in a pretty position. Her abs are in display, while her lower body wears a pair of shorts. 

 

She smirks to herself. 

 

She looks up and smiles when she sees Greco in the doorway of the room, wet and quite surprised. Jinx is laying on his bed, and caressing his covers with intent. Her legs are seducing him already. 

 

"Ma quanto sei bello. Buon anniversario." [How handsome you are. Happy anniversary.]

 

He looks surprised to see her. He tentatively walks inside his room, eyes meeting Jinx's with a grin. "Buon giorno." [Good afternoon.] 

 

"Buon giorno." She greets back. [Good afternoon.] "É veramente uno scialle magnifico questo. Chi lo ha fatto?" [That is such a beautiful throw. Who made it?] 

 

"Una designer. Liliana Rizzari. Fa solo lavori in seta." [A designer, Liliana Rizzari. She only works with silk.] 

 

Jinx grabs a pen from the bedside table, and writes the name on a paper. Then, she looks up at him, a charming smile on her lips. 

 

"Ti dispiace se chiudo la porta?" [Would you mind if I closed the door?] 

 

Greco looks intrigued, but he nods and closes the door, locking it up. "Ma tu chi sei? Come ti chiami?" [What is your name?] 

 

"Syliviana Morel. Buon anniversario." [Syliviana Morel. Happy anniversary!] 

 

"Tu sei il mio regalo?" [So, are you my gift?] 

 

He smiles. Jinx appreciates him better now that he's getting closer to her. He's not so tall, no. But he's muscular, with a killer jaw and perfect teeth. His gray hair is neat, short and soft. His green eyes are sharp, focused on hers own. She bites her lip. 

 

"Sono stata mandata per te, si." [I have been sent to you, yes.] 

 

He admires her. "Si bellissima." [You’re beautiful.]

 

Jinx can see his eyes wonder all over her body, and she takes her chance now. She removes her shorts, letting them fall next to her on the bed. She can see his member harden beneath his suit, so she speaks, voice sultry now, as he stands near her on the bed. 

 

"Poverino. Lascia che ti tolga quei vestiti bagnati." [Poor thing. Let me get you out of those wet clothes.]

 

Jinx slides his jacket off his shoulders while pressing kisses on his neck. He's holding her tight by the waist, and she moans at the grip. He removes his tie and unbuttons his shirt, while Jinx kneels in front of him. She cups his member through the pants he's wearing, and drops his pants underwear with expertise. She gives him a wink, and presses a button on her bracelet to activate the device. 

 

Jinx pushes him on the bed, and smirks. A small device makes his way above his leg, around his ankles. It's a tiny robotic insect, powered by a hextech gemstone and built by her. She lets go of his member, and stops touching him entirely, when the device comes and bites him. 

 

He doesn't have time to react, but he's unable to speak. He writhes in pain, his body jerking and twitching. A blue streak begins to burn him from within, spreading through his body like lightning. His eyes are wide open, terrified and yet unable to yell or ask for help. The electrocution is deadly. 

 

Jinx looks into his eyes, biting her lip and enjoying watching the life leave his eyes with every second. And when he stops moving, she retrieves the hextech device, and blows a kiss at his corpse before leaving through the roof. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn is at her desk, the room englobed in a dim light. She has three lamps turned on near her, one of them next to her laptop. In front of her, there's pictures, by the side of her computer are piles of books on psychopathy, female murderers and crime scene photos, all scattered around. She has a few registries opened up in her computer, and she's deep in thought, looking at them with determination. 

 

Her computer screen has "femoral artery" searched on it, as well as the anatomy pictures. She is sat holding a knife against her thigh, the tip of it causing an indentation in her skin. 

 

"¿Querés choripan con queso?" 

 

"Yes, please!" Caitlyn calls out to Matias. 

 

She pulls the knife away from her leg, jolted out of the moment and stares at the blood dribbling from her thigh. She wipes it as she hears Matias enter the office. 

 

"Hey." He greets, peeking over her shoulder. He wears a polite smile, and only a pair of boxers. Caitlyn grabs the wine glass he's carrying, and takes a sip of it. She hums in delight at the taste of it. 

 

When he reads everything, he opens his eyes wide in shock. "Pará, que es eso?" 

 

"That's how a woman murdered a man in Vienna the other day."

 

"It's so awful -" Matias replies. 

 

"It's so impressive –" Caitlyn says, at the same time. They share a look, and Caitlyn gulps, feeling guilty. "And awful. Yes. Of course."

 

They fall in a deep silence, and Matias puts a hand on her shoulder. "Dinner is ready."

 

They both go to the kitchen, and Caitlyn takes a bite, eyes closed at the flavor. "Thank you darling. This is wonderful."

 

Caitlyn feels him sitting behind her, and leaning on her back as he eats. She's used to it now, so she just enjoys it. 

 

"How would you kill me? If you could?" Caitlyn asks him while eating. 

 

"Um. I don't know. Push you down the stairs?" Matias replies with a shrug. 

 

"No, seriously. They'd, they’d come for you immediately." Caitlyn teases.

 

Matias snorts. "I don't know." 

 

Caitlyn doesn’t look impressed.

 

"Ok. How would you kill me?" Matias asks her. 

 

"I'd paralyse you with Saxitoxin and suffocate you in your sleep, chop you into the smallest bits I could manage, boil you down, put you in a blender, then take you to work in a flask and flush you down a restaurant toilet."

 

The words come out confident, serious. She looks into his eyes, and he seems a bit taken aback by what she said. 

 

"You've really thought about that." He comments, biting on his choripan. 

 

"It's smart and efficient." Caitlyn replies. 

 

"Very."

 

"Sexy?" Caitlyn asks him. 

 

"Very." Matias nods, giving her a thumbs up. 

 

By the time they're back in bed, Caitlyn is freshly showered and Matias is getting out of the shower. She watches him walk around the big bed, dressed in nothing. She looks at him, and gives him a kiss. 

 

"Do you want to have sex?" She asks. Because it's been a while. Such a long while...

 

Matias looks at her, and shrugs. "Sure."

 

Caitlyn leans into him, and kisses him again. 

 

And as he moves on top of her, cold as usual, Caitlyn keeps thinking about the CCTV. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Silco enters Jinx's apartment, and doesn't see her. He walks around the kitchen, the bathroom, until at lasts, he goes to the bedroom. There, on the bed, he sees Jinx on top of the bed, tangled up between two people. A man and a woman. 

 

"Afternoon everybody." Silco greets. 

 

Jinx opens her eyes and sees Silco. 

 

"Do you think you could excuse your guests?" 

 

Jinx's guests get up from the bed in a drunk haze, too hurried up to say goodbye properly. Jinx spanks the girl as they leave the bed, and smirks at the guy. Then she waves at Silco. 

 

"Au revoir." [Goodbye.] 

 

Silco goes out of the room to give them privacy, and Jinx begins to get dressed. She finishes buttoning up her shirt, and puts on a pair of shorts before getting out. She then looks over at Silco, who's waiting for her by the kitchen counter.

 

"Three days ago, one of Zaun's most controversial politician was found professionally murdered in a pretty street in Vienna. Very good." 

 

Jinx smiles in pride. 

 

"The murder took place in a CCTV blind spot. Also good. The politician's girlfriend was reportedly with him while he died. Fine. And was not harmed. Not so good. She is currently in London, where she will be interviewed as a principle witness to the murder. Bad. Which will take place tomorrow. Very bad."

 

Jinx studies him in silence, eyeing him up and down. "Have you had a haircut?"

 

He deadpans her. "Yes." 

 

"Hmm. Looks good."

 

Silco walks up to Jinx, and hands her a ticket. "Your train leaves in an hour. So keep the job tidy, and discreet. Your electricity kill is all over the press."

 

"I loved it, it was so nice watching him twitch and twitch as he died... I'm going to use that one another time." Jinx grins, sounding excited. 

 

"It's not funny." Silco rolls his eyes. 

 

Jinx smiles at him. "It was a bit."

 

Silco is not amused.

 

"They won’t catch me." Jinx reassures him with a confident smirk. 

 

"They might." Silco sighs in annoyance, as Jinx hugs him. 

 

"They won't."

 

"No listen, they might." He tells her, while pushing her away. 

 

She imitates his voice. "They won't." 

 

Silco doesn’t look impressed. "Make it look like suicide, will you?" 

 

Jinx sighs in annoyance. "First class?" 

 

Silco holds up her ticket and a London postcard. 

 

"As always."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn sits across the table, with Mel sitting in front of her. They're in a lovely restaurant, eating a lovely dinner, with lovely music in the background. They're eating lunch and Mel toasts before diving in. 

 

"So... How's Matias doing?" Mel asks. 

 

"He's well." Caitlyn replies, taking a piece of her chicken and eating it. "Same as usual."

 

"Ok. Is that what you've been wanting to talk about? Or do you want to talk about your sudden sexual interest in women?" 

 

"I don't want to talk about Matias." Caitlyn denies with a shake of her head. "He's the same as always. Cold."

 

"Alright then. Let's talk about why you're asking me for an assassin's tits size. Are you a lesbian, Caitlyn?"

 

Caitlyn rolls her eyes, and takes a sip from her wine before starting to talk. "Fine. The Zaunite politician assassin was a woman." 

 

"Caitlyn..." Mel begins sounding worried. "What are you talking about?" 

 

Caitlyn slides her fingers through her hair, frustrated. "I interviewed the witness and she confirmed it."

 

"Isn't she high, Caitlyn?" Mel replies. "I know you're always right about your hunches, but that girl is under the influence of powerful drugs."

 

Caitlyn shakes her head. "I'm telling you, Mel. Besides, don't you think this is suspicious? There wasn't any CCTV until after I suggested it might be a woman."

 

"Did you just say you 'interviewed the witness, by the way?" Mel asks. "Caitlyn. Is that why you went to station yesterday? Didn't Marcus tell you not to?" 

 

Caitlyn sighs, eating her chicken. "Look, she described the killer as a psychopath with no tits. I am certain of this. I recorded the interview and asked Sofia, okay?" 

 

Mel sighs, looking worried. "Darling. Won't this get you in trouble with Marcus? You know how dumb he is."

 

"Mel, I beg you. Nothing ever happens. And see, now this woman is happening and either someone is stopping it from coming out or someone is too lazy to follow it up." 

 

"Okay... It's a bit weird, yes." Mel admits. "But do you think Marcus is covering it up?" 

 

"I don't know, maybe. Or maybe it's a higher up." Caitlyn replies, but she hands Mel a crime scene picture. "This is Cesare Greco. Look at this... Electrocuted and no one saw or heard anything? Naked in his bed, with his cock still hard? This woman is prolific, an expert, Mel."

 

"Caitlyn. We don't know if that was the same woman, first of all."

 

"I’ve been compiling these cases for months, Mel. I'm not crazy. Tuscany yesterday... Martina is the only lead we have and tomorrow morning she's someone else's witness."

 

"Yes and they’ll interview her and find it all out for themselves." Mel replies. "Why don't you leave it to the cops, darling?" 

 

"What if they're in on it?" 

 

"In on what?" Mel sighs. "Caitlyn..." 

 

"I don't know. I just think, it's odd."

 

"Our job is odd, but it's also boring. Look, Caitlyn. I feel like this is just a big coincidence."

 

Caitlyn sighs. "Whatever."

 

"Go to the hospital. Make sure your witness is cozy and safe. Then go home and don’t do anything weird." Mel tells her. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn walks through the halls of the hospital, feeling chills at the sinister energy of it. It's all sterile, cold and smelling of chemicals that she hates. She greets the police officer and shows him her badge, before she greets the nurse at the desk. 

 

When she's allowed through, she goes towards the end of the hall. She sees a nurse, who happily tells her to wait before she can talk to Martina. 

 

Caitlyn nods, and decides to go to the bathroom in the meantime. 

 

Her boots echo across the granite floors with every step she takes. The bathroom smells clean enough, and she looks at her reflection in the mirror. 

 

Long blue hair. Cat-like eyes, cerulean. Her hair falling down over her shoulders, and her shirt hugging her figure tight. She takes off the jacket, leaving her in just a button up white shirt and the ID hanging from her neck. 

 

Caitlyn plays around with her shirt, undoing a couple of buttons and then combing her hair through with her fingers. 

 

Caitlyn then hears the bathroom flush, and the door opens. From the mirror, Caitlyn can see her. A thin nurse, short and petite, walks towards the sink next to where Caitlyn stands. 

 

Caitlyn can feel her eyes on her, but she doesn't say anything. The girl has sharp features. Her face is all bones and angles, but somehow it works in her favor, like a charm. The nurses eyes are unsettling. Wide. Too wide. Like they’re searching for something just out of reach, intense. They shouldn’t be beautiful. Yet they are. They're so beautiful, a big pair of doe eyes that look at Caitlyn as if she's an angel. She's got cherry red hair, messy.

 

Caitlyn turns to her, and the girl adverts her gaze from Caitlyn's intense eyes. She begins washing her hands, and doesn't say anything. No. But Caitlyn can see her thinking, trying to speak and yet not saying anything. But Caitlyn knows that look. 

 

It's the look of lust.

 

"Can I help you?" She asks, but to no avail, the girl doesn't say anything. So Caitlyn doesn't pry. 

 

Caitlyn plays with her hair, and tries to put it in a ponytail. The nurse behind her looks ta her, still enchanted by Caitlyn, somehow. And then, the most beautiful voice spoke out loud. 

 

"Wear the ponytail." She says, smiling at Caitlyn. Then, she leaves the bathroom.

 

Caitlyn looks at the nurse, and when she's gone she looks at her reflection in the mirror. And careful as ever, she ties her midnight blue hair up in a messy ponytail, proud of how attractive she looks in it.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn sits on the toilet, when she gets a call from Mel. 

 

"Hello, darling." She greets her. 

 

"Where are you?" Mel asks. 

 

"On the toilet, I'm afraid you've caught me at the wrong time."

 

"There was no CCTV." Mel sighs. 

 

"What?" Caitlyn exclaims. "What do you mean, babe?" 

 

"It’s annoying me, but you were right. We’ve been lied to, darling. And this smells bad any way you look at it."

 

Caitlyn sighs. "What?" 

 

"Keep that girl safe." Mel tells her. 

 

Caitlyn hangs up the phone. 

 

Caitlyn finishes her business, washes her hands and gets back outside. When she walks around the floor, she doesn't see a single nurse, let alone the receptionist. 

 

She turns the corner. At the end of the corridor she sees two bodies laying on the floor outside Martina's room. Caitlyn feels like her chest is about to explode, and all she can do is call 999. 

 

She hurries over to the doorway and looks into the room. The other police officer lays dead on the floor, her white shirt soaked in red blood. 

 

Caitlyn looks at Martina on the hospital bed, and cries. The nurse's body is propped up against the wall, a huge blood stain on her shirt over her heart. Caitlyn holds the girl's hand on her own, and whispers 'it's okay' to her. Until the machine beeps loud announcing her death. 

 

The 999 call goes through. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn sits on the interrogation room, Mel sits next to her in silence. Caitlyn cries, sobbing in silence, while Mel holds her in her arms. 

 

"If they fire you, you better drag me down with you." Mel jokes. 

 

"Don't. Please."

 

Mel nods pressing a kiss on Caitlyn's forehead. "Alright, darling. I'm here with you."

 

She takes her hand and squeezes it. That's when Marcus decides to enter the room, followed by Grayson. Caitlyn sits back straight, and dries her tears as much as she can. 

 

"Have you made your statement?" Marcus asks, voice cold. 

 

Caitlyn nods. 

 

"Well, that one could have gone better. I don't want to say you only had one job, but..." Marcus laughs, ironic. 

 

"Oh piss off, Marcus!" Caitlyn replies, louder than usual. 

 

Grayson raises her eyebrow. Marcus looks shocked at the outburst, considering Caitlyn is always calm and collected. 

 

"Do you think that's the proper way to address me, Kiramman?" 

 

"Can you just tell me what I need to do?" Caitlyn snaps. 

 

Marcus looks mad, but doesn't act on it. "From what I’ve managed to gather, you have conducted an illegal investigation; you’ve manipulated a witness and-" 

 

"Oh, please." Mel rolls her eyes. "Are you fucking kidding me?" 

 

"Don't interrupt me, Medarda. I don't care who your mother's are. Caitlyn, you failed in your actual job, no doubt because you were so busy executing your pretend job, which I believe, was going to earn you twenty quid. And which you both seem to think is the most important thing about this case."

 

"No. The most important thing is that I was right about the fact that-"

 

Marcus interrupts her. "No, no the most important thing  is that four people are dead and it's all your fault, officer Kiramman."

 

The silence in the room is thick, full of anger and hostility. 

 

"What were you right about?" Grayson asks, curious and calculated in her tone of voice. 

 

"Martina described the killer as ‘una Mina hegemonica con dos huevos fritos de tetas’, which means flat-chested woman in Argentina."

 

"How do you know that?" Marcus asks her, voice cold. 

 

"Because I secretly recorded the interview and brought it home and asked my husband's sister to translate it for me!"

 

Marcus hits the table with decisive force. "That's enough. You're fired."

 

Caitlyn frowns. "You're a cunt."

 

Mel intervenes then, calling Caitlyn out. "Hey!" 

 

Marcus looks grateful. "Thank you, Mel. I'm glad one of you respects me."

 

"No, I was the one who was going to call you a cunt." Mel clarifies. 

 

Marcus is red from anger, or embarrassment, or both. 

 

"Clearly there’s going to be some reshuffling in your department."  Grayson says. 

 

"Both of you leave, immediately. Your things will be mailed to you." 

 

Caitlyn and Mel get up from her seat, and look at him with a deadly glare. 

 

"Just to be clear. I'm fired?"

 

"You're fired." Marcus clarifies in annoyance. 

 

"Excellent, thank you."

 

Caitlyn and Mel leave the room, and Grayson says nothing. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn and Matias are laying on the couch, cuddled up with each other and watching TV. 

 

The doorbell buzzes, and Caitlyn gets up to get the door. When she checks through the peephole, she sees Grayson standing here. Caitlyn frowns to herself, wondering if she did something wrong. She opens the door, and her eyes meet Grayson's in a silent conversation. 

 

"Kiramman." Grayson greets, standing there with her hands on her pockets. 

 

"Hello." Caitlyn greets, awkward. 

 

"Is there anything you need at the shop?" Grayson asks. 

 

Caitlyn frowns in confusion, not understanding what Grayson means. "What?"

 

"Milk, bread?" 

 

Caitlyn is standing there, confused. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn and Grayson walk down the street towards the corner shop, both of them in an awkward silence. 

 

"Married?" She asks Caitlyn. 

 

"Yes. You?" 

 

Grayson smirks. "A few times, yes."

 

They walk down an aisle in the shop, and Caitlyn is very lost. Caitlyn is confused. Grayson is calm. Controlled. Cold. 

 

Caitlyn shivers, and begins speaking, nervous as she is. "Okay. We're here. Do you want some milk, officer?" 

 

Grayson leans against one of the fridges, and looks at Caitlyn into her eyes. "We think she's been operating for two years. Across ten countries. She's highly skilled, as yet untraceable and frankly, she's starting to show off."

 

Caitlyn's eyes widen. She can't believe what she's hearing. She's dead silent. 

 

"When you're feeling perkier, I'd like to buy you breakfast at the Purple Penguin restaurant by Charing Cross." 

 

Caitlyn just looks at her, dumbfoed. 

 

"Thursday. 9am. I'll wait for 10 minutes."

 

Caitlyn nods, still shocked. 

 

"Right. Buy some milk." Grayson says, amused by Caitlyn. She nods towards them. 

 

"Oh. Right." Caitlyn gulps, leaning towards the refrigerator and grabbing the milk. 

 

"Or he'll think you're having an affair." Grayson jokes. 

 

"Oh, I don’t think he’d believe that."

 

"They all think we're having affairs before they think we're secret agents." Grayson shrugs. She starts to leave. 

 

"Oh no, I think Matias would assume I was an agent before ever thinking that I was having an affair." Caitlyn clarifies, nervous. 

 

"You might want to make him think that you're having an affair then." Grayson replies. 

 

Caitlyn looks shocked.

 

Grayson smiles at her. "Hope to see you Thursday."

 

She exits. 

 

Caitlyn stares at the milk in her hand, still too shocked to say anything. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx takes a cloth out of a box. 

 

It's a new throw; identical to the one in Cesare's bedroom. She throws it over her bed, touches the fabric then flops down on the bed, smiling wide and rejoicing in how soft it is. 

 

She lies there for a moment, and then reaches for the new postcard from her bedside table. She gives it a good look, turns it around to read the message. On the front is a picture of Bulgaria.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

Notes:

Give me them kudos babes pls

Chapter 2: I THINK I'VE MET HER

 

 

CHAPTER II

I THINK I'VE MET HER

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx walls through the empty office, gun in her hands. It's late at night, and she's already tired of this victim. It's an idiot, a crying fool who keeps running away from her. She rolls her eyes as he crawls over the floor, speaking to her in Bulgarian. 

 

"I don't speak Bulgarian, dumbass." Jinx exclaims, shooting at his left foot. 

 

Jinx rejoices at the sight of his pain. He hit her in self defense, but once he felt the punch from Jinx's fist, he's crawling and begging for his life. The blood spreads through the floor as he drags his body around. And his screams sound better than the whining. She loves the way he winces in pain, whimpering and terrified. 

 

"Please! I have a family, I have a wife, I have children!" He begs, panting heavily as he looks at Jinx from beneath her. "Please! Tell me what this is all about! I can give you anything you want! I have money! Please!" 

 

It's hilarious, you see. Jinx tinkered with one of her favorite guns, and now it works with hextech. The gun doesn't need bullets now, no. It's now functioning with a hextech gems, and it's a really good torture device for electricity play. So she's enjoying this kill even if the victim isn't cooperating much. 

 

"Stop moving, bitch!" She says, rolling her eyes. 

 

The man grunts on the floor, bleeding out from his wounds, whimpering in pain. 

 

"Who are you?" He asks, crying in pain. 

 

"That's none of your business." 

 

"Why are you doing this to me?" The guy cries, wincing in pain as he tries to get away. 

 

"I don't know. And I don't give a shit."

 

Jinx aims the gun to his chest, and fires seven times all over his torso. She watches him writhe in pain, twitching and groaning in pain. The blood spreads all over the floor, his quiet sobs being her only company. Jinx kneels down, and looks into his eyes, focused.

 

She smiles to herself when he no longer moves, and walks away, tucking the gun inside her pants. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn doesn't understand what's going on. 

 

She walks through the streets of London, her mind spiraling with thoughts, thoughts, and then, more thoughts. 

 

Grayson's visit still left her confused, but she doesn't want to miss their date. She keeps thinking about what she said, of how right she was. A part of Caitlyn wants to be right, she wants to celebrate her guesses being true. But this is not how she feels. No. Oh no. 

 

Caitlyn feels terrified. 

 

She remembers what Grayson said about making her husband think she's having an affair. Caitlyn might not love him, but she has a reputation to protect. Even with her mother dead, something like that is wrong every way you look at it. But the worst thing is that she doesn't hate it. All of her life, she's been sidelined for years in every precinct she's worked in. She's either too weird, too specific, too intense, or just too much in general. But this is the first time that someone sees her, genuine and honest. 

 

Grayson is definitely an expert in the field already, but Caitlyn loves the thought of being a secret agent. The only thing that matters is that she's right, and this assassin is not someone random. She's smart, clever, gorgeous by the description of Martina, but also, a psychopath through and through. 

 

Caitlyn walks into the restaurant, which is empty except for Grayson. She's sitting on one of the tables, reading something and unaware of Caitlyn's presence. When she's in front of her, Caitlyn clears her throat. 

 

"Grayson?"

 

Grayson lifts her gaze, and gives Caitlyn a curt nod. She shakes Caitlyn's hand, and pulls away afterwards. 

 

"Good morning, Caitlyn. Sit down, please." 

 

Caitlyn pulls her chair back, and sits across Grayson without a word. She looks at the agent with interest, but doesn't want to interrupt her, or be too eager as she's usually in these situations. 

 

"I'm not very good at small talk, I'm afraid. But I hope everything is going alright with you. Last time we spoke, I was wondering if perhaps I came on too strong."

 

Caitlyn shakes her head, letting out a small chuckle from her lips. "No, you were fine. It's just that I'm not used to being taken seriously, I suppose. I'm still in shock that you confirmed my suspicions. How are you doing?"

 

"Good, I'm glad you asked." Grayson nods, leaning back on her chair. "Alright, I'm just gonna dive in. That's enough small talk for today."  

 

"Alright." 

 

"You're from Piltover?" Grayson asks. 

 

"Precisely." Caitlyn replies. "My father is from Ionia and I moved here after my mother was elected as a councilwoman, thirty years ago. I was ten back then. And when my parents died, I was already married. So I didn't have it in me to go back to Piltover."

 

"Right." Grayson nods. "I did meet your mother once, extraordinary woman, she was. May she rest in peace."

 

Caitlyn smiles a bit, and nods. So Grayson continues. 

 

"Caitlyn, you know when something like this happens, and they get fired... Their computer and hard drive get swept." Grayson says, her tone of voice careful. She looks into Caitlyn's eyes, and hopes she understands what she means. 

 

"Oh, gods." Caitlyn sighs, looking down in shame. She knows exactly what Grayson found in that computer. 

 

"They found this." Grayson replies. She hands Caitlyn a folder, full of all of her research. 

 

It's not just work stuff, no. Never. It's a compilation of assassination cases that have been unsolved. It's crime scene photos, murder victims, verdicts, books, theories and even murder weapons left behind. It's an intense showcase of Caitlyn's own interest, in the psychology behind female assassins, and psychopaths. It's a research so deep that she is blushing on her seat, as Grayson shows her the file. 

 

Caitlyn sits there, in silence, looking down at her own lap in shame. 

 

She knows what's coming. Grayson thinks she's crazy, for sure. 

 

"Did you compile this information on your own?"

 

"Yes." Caitlyn nods. 

 

"No one asked you to do it?"

 

"No."

 

"Has anyone else seen it?"

 

"Sometimes my husband, if he sneaks behind my desk at home." Caitlyn replies. 

 

"Why did you do this?" Grayson asks. 

 

"Can I get a martini?" Caitlyn calls out to the waiter who walked past them. 

 

"We don't open the bar in the mornings." The waiter tells her. 

 

"Two martinis, please." Grayson tells him, her eyes meeting his, daring him. 

 

"Yes, madam." 

 

The waiter walks off, and Grayson continues. "You seem to know a lot about female assassins."

 

"Yes I'm quite interested in this subject. I used to study criminal psychology back in my university years, and I was just interested in what makes a woman do this. I suppose I'm just a fan, if you could call it that. It's so interesting, how the mind of a psychopath works."

 

"Alright. Why did you compile these specific cases, Caitlyn?" Grayson repeats the question. 

 

"Well, I, uh..." Caitlyn gulps on her seat, eyes meeting Grayson's. She's nervous. 

 

"Say it." Grayson encourages her. 

 

"I believe there is a female assassin operating internationally. This is most likely someone young, attractive, and very smart. She's targeted a number of influential figures for the past couple of years. She doesn't have a signature, but she has style. Her deaths have a certain charm to them that is very chaotic, wild, like a lightning. It's unpredictable and free, uncontrollable. And considering what happened with Marcus, there's more people behind this. I don't know who or what is pulling the strings in the background, but I don't think she's slowing down anytime soon. I'm not going to pretend that this does not interest me. But speaking freely like this, it apparently makes me a fantasist and a crackpot and crazy, and I just don't tell anyone anything about it to avoid judgment. But I'm used to it, I'm used to the social rejection of my interests, I'm autistic at the end of the day. And, quite frankly, I might have cared about it before, but now? With 41 years of experience in life? Now I just don't care."

 

Grayson, for the first time since they've been talking, gives Caitlyn a charming smile. 

 

"I'd love to show you something. Come with me."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Gray and Caitlyn walk down the street, next to each other. It's as gloomy as it should be in London, and the rain slides down Caitlyn's coat. They stop in front of an apartment building, and Grayson shoves a hand inside her jacket. She seems to be looking for her card. 

 

Caitlyn's eyes focus on a rat who passes by her feet, and she grimaces in disgust. 

 

"I once saw a rat drink from a can of Coke there." Grayson says, eyes focused on the same spot as Caitlyn's. Then, Grayson's eyes meet hers. "Both hands." Grayson grabs the key, and opens the door, at last. "Extraordinary." 

 

They move up the stairs of the building, with Caitlyn following behind Grayson in silence. Grayson opens the door with a card, and there's a beep noise echoing through the room. 

 

"Excuse the smell." Grayson apologizes, letting Caitlyn in while turning on the lights. 

 

Inside, the walls are gray and, for the most of it, empty. The place smells odd, and she can't pinpoint what it is, but she doesn't comment on it. There's a few desks around, and computers that are turned off. In front of her, Caitlyn's eyes fall on a board with pictures and a bunch of information arranged in front of her. It feels like the maps she does at work when researching, but a bit messy still. 

 

Unpolished, if you want to call it that. 

 

But the warmth is spreading through her chest like an embrace of her mother. Because it feels like someone picked her brain and tried their best to organize a research on these murders. 

 

"What is this?" Caitlyn whispers in awe, eyes glimmering in excitement. She enters the room, letting her purse on the table nearby, before walking up towards the board. Grayson enters afterwards, and closes the door behind her. 

 

"Well, you're not the only one with a research. I suppose you were right about your hunch."

 

"Grayson. Did you do this yourself?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

"Kind of. I had help. I have someone who keeps tabs on anything that might lend itself to the theory. No trace. No pattern. But most importantly, no one owning up to the crime." 

 

Caitlyn looks at the board, eyes shining in wonder. "Why aren't you researching this officially?" 

 

"I tried. But there was a lack of enthusiasm for it which could read two ways." 

 

Caitlyn looks at Grayson again. "Why did you pick me for a job like this? Why not someone else?" 

 

Grayson walks towards the board, standing next to Caitlyn. She looks at it, and hums in deep thought. 

 

"I think it's quite simple. I see a drive within you. You have guts, you're smart, and you have an exceptional intuition. Why wouldn't I want you?" 

 

Caitlyn smiles to herself, looking down. She can't admit it out loud, but it's a day she never thought would come. But now, before her, someone values her, sees her for who she is. Grayson is listening to her. 

 

"Your payment won't be much, I'm afraid. But I figured someone with as much money as you, wouldn't mind. I hope you can understand."

 

Caitlyn walks up to Grayson, and gives her an enthusiastic handshake. She's smiling, trying to be chill, but she's excited. "Thank you so much for this opportunity. I won't let you down."

 

I that moment, the doors of the apartment open. A tall man enters, and looks shocked at their presence there. He wears his brown hair, short and combed as good as he can. 

 

"Sorry. There's just... there's never anyone in here. Hey." 

 

"Kenny, this is Caitlyn." Grayson introduces them. "I'm hoping she'll be joining you." 

 

"Oh. Hi. Sorry about the smell." Kenny tells Caitlyn. She offers her hand, and he shakes it. 

 

"Kenny lives on the Internet. He can find anything, track anything, trace anything, monitor anything or anyone. Essentially, he's been gathering the evidence. I need people to put it together now." Grayson tells Caitlyn. Meanwhile, Kenny settles on the office as he usually does. 

 

"People?" Caitlyn raises an eyebrow. 

 

"You can have one."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx walks towards her apartment. It's a beautiful day in Paris, sunny and fresh, with a bit of wind. She carries a bruise on her left eye, from a wild encounter with the guy from Bulgaria. She's tired, oh so tired, and wants to nap. In her direct view, she spots him.

 

A neighbor is taking out the trash, a young man with gorgeous eyes and blonde hair. His skin shines under the sunlight with a thin layer of sweat, and his eyes speak of a charm behind them. Jinx can't deny the immediate attraction to him. She gives him a look as she passes by, and he looks up at her too. 

 

His face morphs from delight to concern. "Oh... Your eye."

 

Jinx stops in front of the trash bin, right where he's standing. She gives him her best smile, and ruffles her short blue hair. "Yes. Don't worry about that, I got it at the boxing gym."

 

"Oh cool, cool." The guy nods, closing the trash bin and taking off the gloves he was using. "Hey, I like the hair. It's really vibrant. And it matches your eyes. My name is Sebastian."

 

"I'm Charlotte. See you around, Sebastian." Jinx smiles back, and goes up to her apartment. Behind her, he watches her walk away. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

When Jinx enters her apartment again, she has to roll her eyes. The sight of it is funny at best. She's tired from the train and the murder, but having to see Silco sitting on the couch has to be the dumbest thing she's seen today. Why is he drinking coffee and why is he brooding in the corner like this?

 

She greets him anyway. "Are you trying to be intimidating, Silco? Because drinking and brooding isn't going to scare me and you know it. You look like batman from temu. One-eyed, skinny and with a shitty fashion sense." 

 

Jinx enters her apartment, combing her hair with her fingers and dropping her bag on the floor. She removes her jacket, hangs it up and walks towards the kitchen. She begins to grab food from her fridge. 

 

Silco puts the empty cup on the table, and looks up at Jinx. "I'm not trying to intimidate you. Is your eye alright?" 

 

Jinx rolls her eyes at the fake concern. 

 

"Don't be pretending you care. But anyway, you know I know how to punch. I hit him back twice as hard, you should've seen his face before I killed him! My new pistol did wonders too. I could see him cry and complain about the pain. Ugh. It got me so excited."

 

Silco isn't having it. "I want you to get assessed again. London was meant to look like suicide, Jinx. Why did you mess it up?" 

 

Jinx sighs in annoyance. "She's dead. Isn't that what you wanted?" 

 

"Jinx. How did a beaten up witness kill two armed police officers and two nurses?" Silco argues. "It doesn't make any sense!" 

 

"Slip of the hand? I don't know, old man."

 

"Why are you being like this?" Silco shakes his head in disappointment. "This is not what I told you to do."

 

Jinx ignores him. "I'm excited about my next one actually. This one was boring."

 

"No. No more targets until you are assessed." Silco replies, frowning. 

 

Jinx stomps on the floor, pouting. "But this one has asthma. You know I like the breathy deaths."

 

"Not until you get assessed, Jinx."

 

Jinx shrugs her shoulders. "Fine."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

"Thank you for making time for this session, Jinx."

 

Jerome sits in front of her, eyes empty. He's in his 50's, hair short and combed backwards. He's sitting on her couch, legs crossed and notepad on his hand. Jinx is sitting on her living room's couch, one leg up and the other on the floor. She leans back in confidence, and nods. 

 

"Same." 

 

"How do you feel about the people who you work for?" He asks, voice monotone and dry. 

 

"I respect their privacy." Jinx replies, with a hypocrite smile on her lips. 

 

"Do you have any interest in why you are asked to do what you do?"

 

"Nope. I don't give a shit." She says, rolling her eyes in annoyance. 

 

"There are concerns about your state of mind."

 

"Uh-huh." Jinx nods. 

 

"Have you been feeling any... anxieties or stress recently?" 

 

Jinx shrugs her shoulders, and shakes her head. "I had quite a heavy period last week, but other than that, I'm okay." 

 

"When was the last time you worked?" 

 

"Yesterday. Still haven't slept, by the way. Not that you give a shit about that, considering you're assessing me after an all nighter at 7 am."

 

"Was it a successful mission?"

 

"Yes, it was fun one too, after he stopped whining. I shot him twice in the heart and watched the spark drain from his eyes."

 

"Did you talk to him?"

 

Jinx leans her head to the side. "A little, yeah. He said he had children and offered me money. Dumb move."

 

"What did you feel when he said those things?"

 

"Impatient. I wanted him to just shut up."

 

Jerome nods, and as he finishes writing on his notepad, he leans back. The doctor reaches out into a folder, and begins showing Jinx some pictures. It's dead bodies, animals and humans alike. 

 

"What do you see in this picture?" 

 

The doctor shows her a picture of a hanged man. 

 

"He's got great legs."

 

The man continues showing Jinx the pictures. Until at last, he shows her one, but this time, it's a dead dog. 

 

Jinx feels affected by it, eyes watering with tears. She's not breathing properly, her breaths coming up short. She looks panicked, affected by it. 

 

"I'm sorry." Jinx whispers, through tears. 

 

But... She laughs then, hard. It echoes through the room in a heartbeat, and she points at Jerome, satisfaction on her eyes. 

 

"I got you! God's, you should've seen your face!" Jinx leans back on the couch, clapping and laughing at the same time. She hits her thigh as she does so, and then looks at Silco. "I saw you smiling, don't worry." 

 

Jerome gives Silco a nod, and sighs. "She's fine." 

 

"Thank you. Finally someone with a working brain out here." Jinx says, eyes meeting Silco's. "Unlike someone..." 

 

"No, wait. I have one more. Hold on."

 

Jerome reaches out to his folder, and takes out a little drawing. It's faceless, a head with sharp angles and spiky hair. It's a young woman, her hair cherry red, and wild. She's got half of her hair shaved off, and the other one is combed to the side. 

 

"Do you still have dreams about the explosion?" 

 

Jinx's facade falters just for a millisecond. 

 

Memories come back to her, memories that she keeps inside little boxes inside her mind. Memories that haunt her. 

 

She doesn't falter after that. 

 

"No." Jinx shakes her head. 

 

"Who is it?" Jerome asks. "Who's the girl in the picture?"

 

"It's Vi." Jinx replies, voice tight, barely. 

 

Then, there's a pause. Awkward, void of anything but tension. Jinx's eyes focus on the paper, and her hand grips the couch leather, to no avail. Then, she laughs. 

 

"Haha!" Jinx chuckles, louder than usual. "I'm joking. My sister didn't have that fuck ass hair."

 

"Yes, I see what you mean." Jerome nods. "You're clear. Thank you, Jinx."

 

Jinx turns to Silco, and he sighs. "Fine, you can get a new victim. But promise me you're going to try being normal for a couple of days first."

 

Jinx nods. "Deal."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx hits her punch bag repeatedly. 

 

She knows how to punch, Vi made sure of that. Jinx remembers how, and her arms show exactly how well she learned. She's lean, thanks to the shimmer, but she's got a killer hook. 

 

It's a bit humid inside her apartment due to her intense workout. Sweat drips down her back and neck, and she loves it. She clings onto her boxing gloves, and hits the bag. Again, and again. Then, she hits it some more. 

 

In the background, her stereo plays a good rock song. She's been running on the mill for a while now, enough to have her panting. That's when she hears a knock on the door. 

 

Jinx stops running, and pants heavily. She turns off her music, and walks up to the door. As she opens it, Sebastian greets her with a wave and a smile.

 

The sunshine from her window lights up his face. The gleam in his eyes reflects it in the most beautiful green glimmer. Jinx licks her lips at the sight of the tall and broad boy before her. She's still trying to regain her breath, and that's when he reaches into his pocket, and takes out an ointment. 

 

"Arnica. It's the best thing for bruises." He offers, signaling to the bruise in her eyes. 

 

Jinx feels her nonexistent heart blushing at his gesture. 

 

"Thank you, Sebastian." She grins, and grabs the ointment from his hands. She brushes her fingers over his on purpose, her touch delicate. Her blue eyes meet his green, and that's when he speaks. 

 

"I just wanted to make sure you're alright."

 

Jinx steps closer, giving him her best doe eyes. "What are you up to right now?" 

 

"Um, right now? Uh, I'm canceling all the plans I had." Sebastian replies, slightly flustered. 

 

Jinx wants to defile him. 

 

"Let's go out then, handsome." 

 

Sebastian smiles wide. "Okay. What do you want to do?"

 

"Something normal." Jinx replies. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

This part of Paris is breathtaking, with gorgeous landscapes and parks. Jinx and Sebastian walk down the street, holding hands and enjoying a comfortable silence. The sun shines above them, and they're eating ice cream cones. 

 

It wasn’t bad. He wasn’t bad.

 

Jinx listens to him talk about his art school, and the way he talks has a thick accent that Jinx recognizes with ease. He's from Spain.

 

"-And, you know, Paris has some lovely food. Most of it is quite bland. But it's not my favorite." 

 

"Do you prefer a Paella Valenciana?" Jinx asks, eyes meeting his. 

 

"Yes!" He laughs, licking his ice-cream. "But this city has its charm. Spain doesn't have girls like you."

 

Jinx grins, leaning towards him and pecking his cheek.

 

"You have great dreams, Charlotte." He tells her. "I'm sure you will find a way to get your perfume out there. Fuck what big brands say."

 

"Yeah, fuck them indeed."

 

When she pulls away, her eyes catch a gorgeous woman walking towards where they're standing. 

 

She's got long blue hair, tied up in a high ponytail that has Jinx wet in seconds. She's tall, so tall that she can't help it, and looks up at her as she passes by. Jinx appreciates her necklace showing her big breasts, and the bounce of them with every step she takes. The woman must be in her late 40's, judging by the wrinkles around her eyes. Her eyes are piercing, with the sharpest eyebrows in all of Paris. She looks like she could kill you with a stare, and Jinx swallows a moan. It's just what she likes. Scary, tall, voluptuous, and elegant. 

 

Jinx gulps in her spot, and turns around to continue looking. Bold, direct, like hunting for prey. 

 

It's then that she's reminded of Sebastian's presence, because he speaks. 

 

“Do you…” Sebastian’s voice wavers, pulling her back. “… Do you know her?”

 

Jinx tilts her head with faux innocence, like she had no idea what he was talking about. “No." Sebastian still looks unconvinced, but Jinx leans closer to him, reaching out to grab his arm. She whispers, coy as ever. “Take me to your apartment, pretty boy."

 

It wasn’t a suggestion.

 

Sebastian stands there frozen for a heartbeat, surprised, then, he coughs a 'yes' in a hurry. He trips over himself, and behind him, Jinx grins. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx sees him move above her. He pants, moans, trembles with every buck of his hips against her. She has her legs wrapped around his waist, and it's fine. He's fine. He has a good size, but he's not hitting the right spot. And Jinx is quite impatient.

 

She flips them on the bed, and Sebastian gasps in shock at the speed she moves. Jinx guides him inside once again, and begins riding him. 

 

"Oh, God!" He moans, hips bucking up to meet Jinx's hips as fast as she can. "Fuck!" 

 

Her hips move at high speed, and she looks into his eyes as she does so. The sound of their skin slapping fills the bedroom. She's silent, eyes empty, and yet Sebastian writhes under the deadly grip of her cunt. 

 

He's as bland as French food. Jinx thinks to herself. 

 

Jinx is moving so fast that his eyes are wide open, rolling back in desire. "I... Please, slow down-" 

 

His voice is weak, so close already. Jinx rides him hard, her hips relentless and unwavering. 

 

"No, wait... Oh... I'm going to come so hard if you keep going so fast-!"

 

Jinx is silent, eyes fixed on his. She's grasping his shoulders for leverage, and fucking him like her life depends on it.

 

"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!" 

 

Beneath her, she feels him spill inside the condom. Sebastian comes, loud and shaking from it. He's panting, so out of breath that he's coughing. Jinx remains with her poker face.

 

"Did you come?"

 

"Yes." Jinx lies. She hops off of him, eyes focused on the roof of the room. Sebastian lays on top of her. He notices the bruise on her eye, and gives it a kiss. 

 

"I am never going to hurt you." Sebastian reassures her. Jinx is silent, until her alarm goes off. She gets up from his bed, and begins to dress up in a hurry. 

 

"Hey. Where are you going?"

 

"Work."

 

"Good. Good luck selling your perfume."

 

Jinx closes the door behind her, and doesn't reply. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The living room reeks of chemicals, but Jinx was humming sweetly to herself, enjoying her time. Her goggles perched on her head as she ground a set of herbs into a fine green powder. She's wearing a safety mask, of course. She hopes the tenant won't get mad at her for the smell again. 

 

She's holding a few vials, and measuring everything. She has a bottle of perfume, and the equipment ready. The liquid hisses, shifting from pale blue to sickly violet. Jinx grins at the sight. 

 

She tilts another flask, the mixture thickening, fumes curling upward like smoke. She knows to make it concentrated enough. With uncanny care, she funnels the poison into the bottle. It looks harmless, sparkling in the light, a deadly secret dressed up as luxury. She labels the perfume 'La Rose Noire' [The Black Rose], then tucks it into a velvet-lined case.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn stands outside the unofficial office. It's too early for her to be in the mood for chatting, but it must be done. Mel said yes to work on the case, and now Caitlyn is standing outside, waiting for her to come. 

 

Caitlyn turns around, and in the distance, she sees Mel's Rolls-Royce pull up next to her. 

 

When they enter the office, Mel gasps at the sight before her. The board is full of Grayson's research, now a bit more organized thanks to Caitlyn. Kenny sits at of the desks to the left, typing on his computer. He turns and says hi. 

 

"Caitlyn Kiramman. You know you can count on me, gorgeous."

 

Caitlyn smiles at Mel, hugging her tight. "Thank you, dove."

 

Mel nods, walking up to Kenny and introducing herself. He gets up from his seat, shakes her hand and smiles at them. 

 

"Nice to meet you, Miss Medarda."

 

"Just Mel is fine." She mutters. "And what exactly is it that you do?" 

 

"I'm a hacker. I can get you both any information you need about the case. There's no limits for me."

 

"I'm impressed. So Caitlyn and I will organize this information, yes?" 

 

"That's correct." Caitlyn replies. She pulls Mel towards the board, and points at a picture. "These are the cases we have so far. Susa Maron, found hanging in a ladies' toilet - in a Japanese airport." 

 

"No DNA found at the crime scene?" 

 

"Nothing with a match, no." Kenny denies with a shake of his head. 

 

"Boris Ivanovich, humanitarian aid. Killed in his hotel bedroom in Budapest." 

 

"Considering what you told me, we're assuming that this is a woman. Why is this specific death by a woman?"  Mel asks. 

 

Caitlyn nods. "He had 24-hour top security and the only people who entered his room were hotel maids." 

 

"Alright."

 

"Alright. We have Cesare Greco. Mafia. Had recently and violently taken over a drug cartel in Sicily. He has been murdered at his anniversary party in Tuscany. Now, his security guards mentioned hearing a female voice coming from his room. But the door was locked. They heard laughter and moans and figured he was with one of his mistresses. And then, another guard claims he saw a blonde haired woman escape through the roof of his mansion. That's when they found his body. They couldn't find her afterwards, I'm afraid."

 

"Okay, and how do we know she's the one who killed him? How did he die?" Mel asks, sitting on one of the chairs. 

 

Caitlyn places a file in front of her. "This is the autopsy of his body. They found quite peculiar burn marks on his body, and ran down a series of tests. Apparently he died thanks to hextech technology unknown to them. I couldn't help but ask Jayce, who confirmed that this girl used hextech to kill him. So not only is it a woman, but she's also brilliant. She speaks multiple languages, knows science and she's quite gorgeous, according to Martina."

 

"Okay, but there's no witnesses for this kill, though. Just a reminder."

 

"No one witnessed any of the others either." Kenny tells Mel. 

 

"No, except for Kasia. And we know she was murdered, that accident was no coincidence. They needed to shut her up." Caitlyn replies. "She knew something that they didn't want her speaking about."

 

"But didn't Kasia say the killer was a brunette?" Mel asks. 

 

"We can't erase the possibility of this woman wearing wigs." 

 

"Did Forensics find anything out from the hospital kill?" Mel asks Kenny. 

 

"One full profile, but no matches." Kenny answers. 

 

"Okay." 

 

"Any witnesses to that kill?"

 

"No."

 

"Any witnesses from the hospital at all?" Mel asks. 

 

"There was no one in the corridor at the time of the murder besides the security guards and the nurse." Caitlyn replies. 

 

"Who were all killed."

 

"So nothing to implicate the same woman." Mel sighs. 

 

"Except that Kedrin was killed by a woman, and the witness to that kill was then murdered, so it doesn't take a genius to put these two together." Caitlyn replies. 

 

"Other than that, can you give me a single discernable motive for one person to kill all these people?"

 

"Why don't you want to believe they're all the same woman?"

 

"Because the moment any of us want to believe anything, we've undermined this entire investigation." Mel replies. 

 

"The way Marcus was trying to cover up this whole thing, lying about the CCTV. The way these murders are quite subtle but against influential people. It makes me think about a woman who's a pawn to something bigger than just psychopathy. This is beyond my beliefs. Maybe she's being paid by someone to do this and she's just a hitman for them. But she's not a regular person. She can afford hextech and knows enough science to make weapons with it. And for you to handle yourself around these high profile people, you must be very good at socializing. She must be strong physically as well, considering you have to fight men sometimes."

 

Mel nods, writing on her notes. There's pride in her eyes at Caitlyn's words. "Alright. Let's organize these cases properly, boss."

 

"Is there a bathroom near?" Caitlyn asks, looking at Kenny. "Sorry, I just need to go."

 

"Yes, I'll show you."

 

They walk outside to the hallway, and Kenny holds a toilet paper roll in his hands. 

 

"It's best that you bring in your own or it just disappears. How many sheets do you need?" 

 

Caitlyn squints her eyes at him, and grabs the roll. She can't believe what he's saying. 

 

"I'm just gonna take the roll and bring it back afterwards, if that's okay." 

 

"Okay, sure."

 

Caitlyn enters the toilet, and does her business as usual. When she's done, she walks up to the sink and washes her hands. In front of her, there's a mirror. She dries her hands, looks at herself, and the way her hair falls over her shoulder. 

 

A gorgeous voice echoes in her mind. 'Wear the ponytail."

 

Caitlyn grabs her hair, and ties it up in a really high ponytail. When she's done, she gasps. 

 

How could she be so slow? 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn enters the office, a strand of hair loose from the ponytail. She doesn't mind it, it looks wonderful. She places the roll of toilet paper back at the same spot it was, and tries to regain back her breath. 

 

"Kenny, are you able to get the names and photo IDs of the nurses on duty at the hospital that night? In fact, all the female nurses working at the hospital, whether they were working on Kasia's ward or not?" 

 

"On it, boss." Kenny answers. 

 

"What's got you so anxious?" Mel asks, caressing Caitlyn's arm. 

 

"There was a young woman, a nurse, who left the bathroom before I did. She had red hair, and gray eyes. Her hair was wild looking, and she was thin, petite. Short in stature. She could've seen something. We can ask her."

 

Mel looks at her, flicking her pen repeatedly in deep thought. "If we focus on her... She needs to give us a clue about who she works for."

 

"We have to ask what is her motive. Either they have something on her, controlling her, or they're lavishing her with something..." 

 

"Exactly. They. Who is the they?" 

 

"If it was someone with enemies, they would have owned up to it. Or been exposed for at least one of these kills by now." Caitlyn mumbles. "But that's not the case."

 

"What are you saying?" Kenny asks. 

 

"There are no trails. If they are random, then fine, they're random. But if they're not, that means someone's plan is going really well. These people are powerful and particular and, so far, completely invisible. Which means they're probably powerful in every way possible. These kills are international and important. There's just a side to this puzzle that we're not seeing. Our only visible contact is her. And that is why we have to focus on everything we know about her in order to get to them."

 

" And what do we know?" Mel asks. 

 

"Her DNA isn't on file, there's no image. She's young, smart, physically strong. She must speak multiple languages. She brings a certain flair to her kills. Hextech electrocution was impressive. She knows science. You know, either they trained her or they found her skilled already. Either way, I'd say she scores high on the psychopathy scale. And she probably killed before she was paid to."

 

"Well, that's a good start, then, isn't it, boss?" 

 

"Come to the office tonight. I will have the nurse information by then." Kenny tells her. 

 

"Thank you." Caitlyn nods, and focuses on the board once more. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx takes off her clothes, and underneath, she's wearing a waitress uniform, a white buttoned shirt and a black tie, along with a tight pair of black pants. She's wearing a black hair wig, and as she walks into the kitchen, her boss is yelling at her. He's short, with anger in his semblance and a forehead vein about to burst. 

 

"Est-ce votre premier jour de travail?!" [Is this your first day at work?!]

 

"Non."

 

"Alors, tu es en retard. Dépêche-toi, bouge!" [Then, you're late. Hurry, move!] 

 

Jinx walks towards the ceremony salon. It's a big place, with gorgeous architecture and a roof high enough to reach the stars. It's still bright outside, but inside the room, there's only chatter and music in the background. She grabs a bottle of champagne, and serves some to the surrounding tables. She gives the guests her best smile, and listens to one of the guests give a speech to honor Claire, her next victim. 

 

When they finish, Claire walks out of the salon, most likely to the bathroom. And Jinx follows behind her. She's tall, voluptuous and with a gorgeous red dress that catches everyone's attention. She wears expensive jewelry, and her ears are heavy with diamonds. Jinx watches her retouching her makeup, looking at her reflection in the mirror. 

 

The salon's bathroom is all mirrors and warm lights, the echo from the music outside getting through the doors. Jinx leans casually against the sink, humming under her breath, the delicate crystal bottle of La Rose Noire glinting in her palm.

 

Her target, tipsy and distracted, checks her lipstick in the mirror. Jinx’s grin widens. She walks towards her, quiet as a shadow, until they stood shoulder to shoulder over the sink. 

 

Before the woman can turn, Jinx lifts the atomizer and gives it a sharp squeeze. A fine mist clouds the air, shimmering in the bathroom light. The woman inhales on instinct.

 

At first, nothing. Then—her chest hitches. A wheeze escapes her throat. She clutches at her collarbone, eyes wide, trying to suck in air that wouldn’t come. She doesn't understand what's happening, but her eyes are looking into Jinx's. She's confused, angry, but most importantly, she's choking.

 

And Jinx is enjoying it. 

 

Jinx steps back, twirling the bottle in her fingers, watching with fascination as the woman stumbles, panting, gasping while lungs begin to close up. Each wheeze comes out weaker, more desperate, until her knees give out and she collapses against the wooden floor. 

 

Jinx feels herself getting wet at the sight of the light leaving her eyes. 

 

The woman’s hand falls limp on the floor, eyes empty. Jinx blows a mock kiss, and gives a playful little wave to the body on the floor.

 

“Bye-bye!” she sings as she walks out of the door, disappearing in a blink of an eye. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx sits on the couch, with Silco sitting next to her. She's licking her lollipop, telling him about the kill. That's when she hears the front door, a heavy banging on the door. 

 

"Hello? Charlotte?" Sebastian calls from outside. "Are you there?" 

 

"Who the fuck is that?" Silco rolls his eyes. 

 

"You told me to do something normal, so I fucked the neighbor. Duh." Jinx laughs. 

 

Silco rolls his eyes. "So now what?" 

 

"I'm sure I can handle having a boyfriend, dipshit." Jinx rolls her eyes. "Or is this because I know you hate Spanish people? Don't be xenophobic." 

 

"Tell him to leave. I need to tell you something."

 

"Ugh. Fine. He's boring already but whatever."

 

Jinx walks towards the door, and when she opens the door, eye eyes fall on Sebastian. He's changed, recently bathed and with a bag of food on his hands. He's nothing but a handsome tall man. 

 

"Hey, babe." Jinx smiles, leaning in to give him a kiss. 

 

"Hi." He replies. He looks behind her, and his eyes meet Silco's empty ones. "Who is that?" 

 

"I'm her uncle." Silco greets him with a curt nod. "I'm Charles."

 

"Yeah, don't mind him. Old man's got dementia." Jinx smirks. 

 

"Oh. No, that's alright." He says, and he offers his hand for Silco to shake. "I'm... I'm Sebastian. I'm a friend of Charlotte."

 

"Oh. Nice to meet you, then." Silco replies, his tone condescending. 

 

Sebastian turns to Jinx. "How was the job?" 

 

"Oh, so good." Jinx tells him, leaning in to peck his cheek. 

 

"Can I smell your perfume now?" 

 

There's an awkward silence in the room. Silco stays silent, and Jinx shakes her head. 

 

"Shall I come back later?" Silco tells him, walking up to him. He gives Sebastian a fake smile. 

 

"Oh. Shall I come back later?" Sebastian asks, pointing at himself. 

 

"Ah, thank you." Silco nods, his grin creeping Sebastian out. 

 

"I will come to you in a bit." Jinx winks at him. She leans in, giving him a hug and kissing him. When she pulls away, he leans in, smelling her neck. 

 

"Are you wearing it now?" 

 

"No." Jinx shakes her head. 

 

"Hey. Are you okay? Do you want me to stay?" Sebastian whispers in her ear. "Are you safe?" 

 

"No, I'm okay. Don't worry about it, handsome." Jinx leans in, hugging his neck for a second. "Let me handle this first, alright?" 

 

"Oh, I bought us Chinese food. I'll keep it warm while you're away."

 

Sebastian leaves the apartment. Jinx doesn't close the door after he's gone, but he turns his head towards the entrance. Jinx has gone back to the living room, following after Silco. His eyes catch something glittery from a velvet box, and he smiles. He grabs the perfume, 'La Rose Noire' is outside Jinx's purse. 

 

He grabs it, and walks outside, closing the door behind him. 

 

"You need to deal with him." Silco warns as they sit back on the couch.

 

"He's my boyfriend."

 

"Ah, congratulations. He has cute eyes." Silco nods. 

 

Jinx takes out a pocket knife, and tackles Silco on the floor. She points the tip of it to. The base of his arteria, and grins devilishly. "Oh I'm so bored... And you know what happens when I'm bored. So you better start talking. Otherwise, I'm just going to kill you. I know they're just going to send me another handler if I do it. What do you want?" 

 

Silco looks into Jinx's eyes, terrified. "A woman in London is leading a department just to find you. No, it's not a good thing. It's a closed operation. And we don't know what they know, but we are working on it. We just need to be subtle at the moment." 

 

OH. Oh, that's so much more exciting than fucking the neighbor. 

 

Jinx grins to herself, and walks towards the kitchen. She grabs a bottle of rum from the fridge, and pours two shots. Then, she gives the tiny glass to Silco, who's rubbing his back as he tries to get up from the floor. 

 

Jinx drinks the shot in one go. "I can be subtle." 

 

"Good." Silco replies, drinking his shot of rum. 

 

"Mm. But it's going to be expensive."

 

"What's her name?"

 

"Caitlyn Kiramman." Silco tells her. 

 

"Caitlyn Kiramman." Jinx repeats. "Sounds prissy."

 

Silco gets up from the floor, and dusts himself off. "We'll continue as usual. Just be aware." 

 

"Yeah, yeah." Jinx rolls her eyes. "I'm always aware of everything, Silco! Nothing happens out of my control!"  

 

That's when a big heavy thud alerts them both. The noise is near, and Silco runs towards the door to check what happened. Until they open it, and on the floor, Sebastian holds a takeout bag, and Jinx's perfume next to his corpse. 

 

Jinx looks at Silco, and shrugs her shoulders. "Eh, dealt with."

 

"Fucking hell!" Silco sighs in annoyance. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx opens her laptop, and types 'Caitlyn Kiramman' on the search bar. And when the pictures come out, Jinx's eyes open wide.

 

Excitement, fear, desire. 

 

Caitlyn is a gorgeous woman, sure.

 

But Jinx remembers that face. 

 

She shoves a hand between her legs.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn enters her office, it's late. She told Matias she was going to buy some groceries, but she's trying to find out if the nurse files are available now. To her surprise, she finds Mel reading something, and her eyes light up at the sight. 

 

"Are you all right?" She asks. "Please don't tell me you had a fight with Sevika."

 

"Oh, no. Surprisingly, I got really inspired to come and work on the case."

 

"Always a hardworking person, I see. Say hi to her for me. We should have a girl's night soon."  Caitlyn teases, sitting next to Mel at the desk to her left. She turns it on, and checks. 

 

She looks at every nurse's file, their picture, repeating them in an endless loop of frustration. Next to her, Mel notices the passion in her eyes. Caitlyn doesn't mind having an audience. Every picture of the nurses are there and none of them match the girl from the bathroom. 

 

Caitlyn sighs, running her fingers through her hair, and ruffling it. 

 

"I think I've met her." Caitlyn confesses. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° 

Notes:

Omg hiii thank you for reading ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ virtual hug for y'all, comment and tell me what you think 😘

Chapter 3: BIG DOE EYES

 

 

 

BIG DOE EYES

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn shifts uncomfortably in her seat as the artist’s pencil hovers over the blank page. Kenny, Grayson and Mel are looking at her, curious as ever. They're in the office early in the morning, with the gentle flow of rain in the background. Caitlyn taps her fingers against the wooden desk, quick and messy. She looks around for aid, but the room is silent. 

 

Mel gives her a silent nod in support, and holds her other hand with a smile on her face. 

 

"Describe the woman you saw." The artist asks. 

 

“She's about 1,60 meters tall." Caitlyn begins, before drawing a steadying breath. “She has a heart-shaped, sharp but delicate facial structure. High cheekbones — refined and angular in a way that works for her. Her lips are slightly thin, soft-looking and tinted salmon.” 

 

Caitlyn gulps, closing her eyes. Then, she remembers Jinx's face, and continues. She clears her throat. “Her skin is pale, luminous almost, it gives her a ghostly quality that works with her eyes. Her hair was cherry red, a little wild, with a haircut quite odd. Her eyes are cat-like, wide and alert. They're cheeky when she smiles, her big doe eyes. But I think her hair was a wig, it didn't look like real hair at all."

 

The artist nods, sketching, but Caitlyn found herself continuing, words spilling out of her mouth. "She looks at you like she’s trying to tinker with your brain just to see what’s inside, and yet—” Caitlyn falters, her lips tightening, “—you can’t look away. There’s danger in them, yes, but also a childish energy to them."

 

When she finally falls silent, the artist’s pencil is the only noise inside the room. She can feel everyone's heavy gaze on her, but Caitlyn doesn't look back at them. No. 

 

Caitlyn’s throat tightens. That description isn’t clinical at all — it's far too precise, too intimate. Caitlyn sounds like the least professional person in the world, but when she sees the sketch on his hands, she knows it's the woman from the hospital. 

 

Mel squeezes her hand, and Caitlyn doesn't dare say another word. She's in too deep now. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Zhang Wu walks down the streets of Berlin. He finishes his call, and enters a nameless building. He greets the receptionist with a curt nod, and a charming grin. She gives him a form to fill, that he takes from her hands. 

 

Then, she speaks. 

 

"Hot Medica provides bespoke hospital services for recreational purposes only, and is not liable for damages for any of the following... infection, blood loss, accidental mutilation, or death. All procedures at the client's own risk. Uh, I'm afraid Hortense was called out unexpectedly. There is a cover nurse today."

 

Zhang looks disappointed, pouting." Oh. It's just, um..."

 

"Yes?"

 

"It's my birthday. Hortense said she would be doing something special." 

 

"Happy birthday. I'll see what we can do."

 

"Oh... Thank you."

 

"Oh. Can I confirm that "Fruhstuck" is your safe word?" The 'nurse asks. 

 

"Yes."

 

Exactly five minutes later, the doors of the office are open. Zhang enters the room, and closes the door behind him. The room is cold, chilling, and full of mutilation weapons for the 'nurse' to use. Standing in front of him, a petite woman stands, gloves in her hands. She has long back hair, green eyes and a serious look on her face. 

 

"Du bist zu spät." [You're late.] Jinx says,voice strong and harsh. 

 

"I'm sorry. I had to..." 

 

"Zieh deine Kleider aus." [Take off your clothes.] 

 

Zhang nods in earnest, grinning and undressing himself from head to toes. He puts on his hospital gown, and fold his clothes neatly. 

 

"I see you are a regular here at Hot Medica. It says here that last time you received a vigorous scrotal massage." Jinx asks. 

 

"Yes, but... did Hortense tell you it was my birthday?" Zhang grins, excited. 

 

"Oh. What? You think you are special?" Jinx rolls her eyes. 

 

To this, Zhang laughs. 

 

"You think you deserve special treatment?" 

 

Zhang shakes his head and smirks. "No, no. Never."

 

"Gut, jetzt halt die Klappe." [Good, now shut up.]

 

Zhang lays on the odd hospital bed, and spreads his legs wide open. He hangs a leg on each side, and scoots a bit forward to be in labor position. Jinx places an oxygen mask on his face, making sure it's tight and properly in place. She uses the leather straps and belts to tie him up to the bed, tight enough to cause discomfort. Jinx reaches for one of the tools, and speaks to him, serious as ever. 

 

"Niemand erhält eine Sonderbehandlung."  [Nobody gets special treatment.] 

 

Jinx inserts the painful tool, and the man moans on his spot. 

 

"Cold?" She asks.

 

Jinx sees him nod, so she amps up the pain, using the tweezers to twist and harm his member. It's sudden and quick, too hurtful for his liking. Zhang screams on his spot. 

 

"Fruhstuck! Fruhstuck! Fruhstuck! Safe word! You have to stop!" 

 

Jinx leaves the painful tools within him, and walks towards the CO2 tank next to the bed. It's connected to his mask, so she opens it, and he begins to choke and grunt in pain. 

 

"What are you doing?" Zhang asks, gasping in pain. "Please! Stop!" 

 

But he keeps on yelling, while Jinx watches him. She grabs his jaw, forces their eyes to meet, and smiles to herself. 

 

"Look at me." Jinx begs. 

 

Beneath her, Zhang chokes to death, the light leaving his eyes with every cough.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn walks inside her room, and she sees Matias on their bed, looking at her intensely. It's late at night, but he's still not asleep. And by the look of it, he's upset. 

 

"Hey, good evening." Caitlyn greets. "Did you wait up for me?" 

 

"Why did you leave suddenly?" Matias asks. "It's midnight now, Catalina..."

 

Caitlyn hangs her coat and removes her jacket, frowning in confusion. "I had to go to the office to check some information and things extended more than I expected them to. I apologize."

 

"Didn't you lose your job?" Matias asks. 

 

Caitlyn remembers Grayson's words about making our partners think we're cheating. 

 

"Well, yes. But, you see, officer Grayson hired me to help her with a case, to organize some information she has. I'm sorry for making you wait, darling." 

 

It's unlike him to be jealous. But then again, she's been gone from the mansion for long enough to make him notice her absence. She walks up to him, and caresses his bicep over his shirt. 

 

"And it's safe? Working unofficially like that?" Matias asks. 

 

"Oh, yes. It's just gathering and analyzing information about someone. It's not dangerous. It's a desktop job."

 

"And..." Matias begins. "Grayson isn't interested in you, is she?" 

 

Caitlyn snorts. "Oh? No, she's not interested in me like that. And I don't like her like that either. Why do you think that way?" 

 

Matias shrugs, leaning his back against the bed frame. "I don't know... Don't you like girls? You told me. I just want to be sure..." 

 

Caitlyn smiles to herself, and leans in kissing his cheek. "We may not be able to be with the people we want. I know you'd rather be with a man than me, and I'd rather be with a woman. But I'm not a cheater, and Grayson isn't my side piece."

 

Matias nods, a small smile on his lips. "Thank you. Sorry, I'm not..." 

 

"Hey." Caitlyn teases, putting a finger over his lips. "I know we could've been best friends if we weren't in this mess. But instead... We're cold. I know you're cold, and i know I'm cold. Our parents are dead now. We have no children... I just... Do you..."

 

"Do you want to divorce?" Matias asks. "Is that what you want?" 

 

Caitlyn shrugs. "We've never loved each other, and I didn't want to go against my mother's wishes. But... She died two years ago."

 

"I want to get a divorce." Matias agrees. "We're young still. I'm 43, you're almost 42. We can find someone that makes us happy."

 

Caitlyn smiles to herself, nodding. "I'm not sure if there's any girl out there who would like me at this age, I'm afraid."

 

Matias shakes his head. "No, no. Don't think that way. You know you're gorgeous."

 

Caitlyn laughs, bumping his shoulder playfully. "I guess so. I just..."

 

"You know. I think I've been so bitter these years about our marriage that you feel unwanted and undesirable. I'm sorry. I really don't think you are too old for anyone."

 

Caitlyn lets the comfortable silence simmer between them. 

 

"Did you ever... Cheat on me with any guy you met?" 

 

Matias scoffs, laughing. "I wanted to. There was one time I met a guy through Facebook. But I was too scared to do something about it. Everything I did with a guy was before our marriage. After that, I just kissed or groped, but never fucked any guy, no." 

 

Caitlyn laughs, taking off her clothes and changing into her pajamas. "We could've arranged something for us."

 

"With the way our parents are? Nah. They'd know we're cheating on each other and scold us immediately." Matias shrugs. "And did you ever cheat on me? I know you and Mel... You know..." 

 

Caitlyn shakes her head. "I've never been more than a friend with Mel. But I did kiss someone else one time. I got drunk in a gala ten year ago, and I didn't want to see my mother or you. I drank a bit too much wine... I kissed a girl in our bathroom, but I never saw her again. Although, I'm not going to sit here and pretend I don't find Mel absolutely stunning."

 

Matias chuckles. "Thats ballsy of you. I know how Cassandra was about it." 

 

Caitlyn smiles to herself, sitting next to him and then laying on the bed. "Will you call the lawyer tomorrow?" 

 

Matias nods. And for the first time in years, Caitlyn seeks out his arms to cuddle in. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn enters the office, newspaper in her hands. Inside, she sees Mel sitting on her desk, drinking a cup of coffee and eating a croissant.

 

"Good morning, everyone." Caitlyn greets, eyes full of joy. Kenny and Mel share a secret look, before they meet Caitlyn's gaze. "What?" 

 

"Someone had a good time last night." Mel teases. Caitlyn rolls her eyes. 

 

"That's not why I'm happy, but whatever." Caitlyn drops the newspaper on the desk, and sighs. "New death. She had an induced asthma attack at a political fundraiser on Paris. She was the primary donor." 

 

"Yeah, I read about it this morning." Mel replies, reading the article from her angle and taking a bite of her pastry. "Let me guess. You think it was your woman." 

 

"Well, she was found in the ladies room. So, yes, she's going on the wall, darling."

 

Caitlyn grabs a picture of the woman, and hangs it on the board. 

 

The, Grayson enters the room, a cup of coffee in her hands. Caitlyn turns towards her, and nods. "Good morning."

 

Mel and Kenny greet her too. 

 

Grayson places her backpack on her desk, and looks at them all. "Good morning. We have some news." 

 

"Uh, what happened?" Kenny asks. 

 

"There's been another kill." Grayson says, showing them a newspaper. 

 

"Ah, yes. Carla de Mann." Caitlyn replies. But Grayson shakes her head. 

 

"Yes. But this is a different one. You're going to want to sit down, Caitlyn. His name was Zhang Wu. He was a Chinese colonel visiting Berlin." 

 

Caitlyn frowns in confusion, but she sits in front of Grayson anyway. 

 

"He was a hacker for the Chinese military. He was murdered during a very specific fetish session. He frequently visited a place where he liked having small surgical operations performed on his body and having his balls clamped by the nurses. Suspect is a caucasian woman in her mid twenties, who claimed she was covering for the other surgeon fetish nurse."

 

"Witnesses?" Mel asks, sipping her coffee. 

 

"One. The receptionist."

 

"Alright, let's get this e-fit image over to Berlin and get her identified." Caitlyn replies. 

 

Grayson gives her a look, and Caitlyn admits she's worried. "What's wrong?" 

 

"She gave a name at the desk." Grayson tells her. 

 

"Okay?" Caitlyn replies, confused. 

 

"She said her name was Caitlyn Kiramman."

 

Fuck. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The office is quiet except for the faint hum of the projector cooling down, the last of the crime scene photos still lingering on the screen. A picture of the latest murder is displayed on it.

 

Grayson exhales, running a hand over her jaw. “Whoever did this isn’t sloppy. This death is magnificent in every way you look at it. Cruel, sure, but she's slippery and great at not leaving any witnesses, ever.”

 

Kenny leans back in his chair, frowning. “So what’s the plan? We can’t chase shadows without a lead.”

 

Caitlyn straightens, her fingers brushing the file in front of her. “The victim is a politician and he wasn't traveling alone. We can go ask the locals police for any extra details and see if we can talk to the victim's friend and coworker. We’ll need someone who speaks German, and someone with… leverage. I can handle the language. And Mel—” her eyes flick to hers—“you have the connections.”

 

Mel tilts her head, a faint smile curling her lips. “Seems we’re the winning pair then.”

 

Kenny’s brow furrows. “Hold on. Both of you going in? That’s risky. If this is the same assassin…” His voice trails off, the unspoken name settling heavy in the room.

 

Mel waves a dismissive hand. “Oh, please. Don’t look so grim, Kenny. The mysterious woman assassin? She’s practically a ghost story. Nothing’s going to happen to us.”

 

The joke lands light in the air, but Caitlyn’s stomach knots. She doesn’t laugh. Her mind flickers to the dossier, to the research she gave Grayson days ago. 

 

Grayson notices Caitlyn’s expression and studies her for a moment before clearing her throat. “Still, you’ll both be careful. Ghost or not, Berlin’s crawling with vultures who’d love to sink their teeth into this case.”

 

Caitlyn nods, though her throat feels tight. She tucks her worry beneath a cool mask, but inside it only grows sharper. The woman isn’t just real—she’s aware of Caitlyn. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx giggles, kissing the woman in front of her. They're in her hotel room, groping each other and caressing their hair. Jinx has her pressed against the wall, and her fingers slide through Jinx's blue.

 

Jinx kisses her with fervor, pressing their chests against each other's and moaning. The girl is taller than Jinx, her hair long and silky. She's Asian, around forty years old and with a gorgeous face. 

 

Suddenly, Jinx pushes her back and they lay on her bed, kissing more intensely than before. The woman moans as Jinx kisses her neck, licking it and biting it. The woman wraps her legs around Jinx's waist, and bucks her hips into hers, groaning. 

 

"I haven't done anything like this before." The woman giggles, looking into Jinx's eyes and kissing her jaw. She speaks with a British accent. 

 

Jinx laughs, opening up her shirt and licking all over her big breasts, needy. "Me neither. But fuck, you're gorgeous. I love your accent. Come here. Let me just..." 

 

Jinx grab sher hair, tying it up in a messy ponytail. The woman laughs, kissing Jinx. 

 

"Someone's got a kink for ponytails." The woman teases, grinding against Jinx's body and moaning. "Do you like it, darling?"

 

"Fuck. Yes. I love your hair up like that, shit."Jinx leans into her, groping her breasts and opening her bra. Then she fondles them, gropes them and licks them all over, above the woman.

 

The woman moans at the feeling, arching her back beneath Jinx's torso. 

 

"My husband thinks I'm with the tour group for another hour, so..." The woman smirks. 

 

Jinx leans into her, shoving one hand between the woman's legs. She finds her wet, her cunt reacting to her every touch with need. She's pent up, so pent up, and Jinx smirks as she rubs circles against her clit. 

 

"So wet for me... Baby... Fuck. I'm going to call you Caitlyn, okay?" Jinx whispers in her ear. 

 

"Um, ah! Fuck, uh... Why?" The woman asks, moaning and bucking her hips against her touch,dripping all over Jinx's hand. 

 

"It's just a fantasy thing." Jinx whispers in her ear, licking it as two of her fingers slide inside the woman's cunt. 

 

"Fuck, yes, yes, yes!" The woman whines, moving her hips desperately, chasing after Jinx's fingers. Jinx begins fucking her hard and fast, licking her neck. "F-fine, call me anything you want, just don't stop fucking me, baby..." 

 

Jinx moves them so she's pulling her skirt and underwear down in one sudden pull. She throws them somewhere around her apartment, and she dives in, licking her cunt and fingering with two fingers. 

 

The woman moans and twitches on her spot, grinding her hips to meet Jinx's tongue. She's desperate, and so wet. Jinx can't get enough of her.

 

"Fuck Caitlyn, you taste so sweet..." Jinx mumbles against her cunt. 

 

The woman moans louder, gripping Jinx's hair and pulling her closer to her cunt. She rolls her eyes and arches her back, feeling her body on the edge of coming. 

 

"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck!" The woman groans, loud. "I'm coming, I'm coming!" 

 

Jinx groans against her cunt, her fingers curling up inside her, hitting her spot as they go in and out of her. 

 

"Fuck, Caitlyn, come for me, come baby. Come all over my mouth."

 

That's when she cums, moaning loud, and Jinx smirks to herself, licking her cunt clean. Then, she lays on top of her, and gives her a kiss on her lips. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn folds a crisp blouse and lays it neatly into the suitcase. Her movements are precise, almost methodical, though the small bundle of lace she slides into the corner breaks the pattern—lingerie, delicate and dark, hidden under more sensible clothes. She adds trousers, a tailored jacket, travel essentials, and her holstered custom desert eagle pistol last of all, setting it down with care.

 

Behind her, the door creaks. “Running away already?” Matias leans against the frame,looking at the suitcase with curiosity. “I thought I’d get at least another week before you left me for another woman.”

 

Caitlyn glances over her shoulder, lips twitching. "Oh, I have to go to Berlin. There’s a lead on a suspect.”

 

He steps inside, eyeing the suitcase like it might swallow her whole. “Berlin, hm? And who’s lucky enough to be your partner in crime this time?”

 

“Mel,” Caitlyn answers simply, folding another shirt with brisk efficiency.

 

Matias raises his brows, smirking. “Oh, Mel. Of course. As friends?”

 

Caitlyn shakes her head, a laugh caught halfway between amusement and exasperation. "I’ll be back soon.”

 

He watches her for a moment, then rummages in the drawer, pulling out a battered luggage tag. He scribbles their home address and fixes it to the handle of her suitcase. “There. In case you forget your suitcase again and leave your bag in some airport lounge.”

 

Caitlyn huffs, but her lips soften into a smile. “That was one time.”

 

“One time too many.” He brushes his fingers over the tag, then cups her cheek, the teasing melting into something gentler. “Just… Call me when you get there, alright?”

 

She nods, quietly, as she zips the suitcase shut.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

"Now, the most likely people to assassinate a Chinese leader with a penchant for fetish are the Chinese." Mel comments, ad they get down from their cab. They pay, grab their suitcases and walk away from it. They cross the road, and wait outside the doors of the building in front of them. 

 

"The Chinese, I know." Caitlyn replies. "I want to find out what exactly happened here."

 

Jinx sits across the street, eating a pastry. She's wearing a cap and a scarf, sips her coffee in silence. Her magenta eyes fall on Caitlyn and Mel, so she grabs her binoculars and watches them in silence. 

 

"Why do you think she used your name?" 

 

"I don't know." Caitlyn tells her. She grabs inside her suitcase, and reaches for her gun. She straps it on her hip, and loads it. In the distance, Jinx stares at her. 

 

Then, the doors of the office open up, and a tall lady walks out of it. She greets Mel with a smile on her lips and a big hug, and Mel reciprocates immediately. 

 

"It's been so long! Oh, how nice to finally see you again. Oh! Hello there!" The woman greets Caitlyn. 

 

"Hello." Caitlyn greets her, serious as ever. "Caitlyn Kiramman."

 

"Weber. Nice to meet you." She greets. 

 

"Thank you so much for getting us access." Mel tells her, smiling wide. 

 

"Anything for you, gorgeous." Weber grins. 

 

Caitlyn wonders what Sevika would do to this woman if she was here. She places her suitcase on the floor. 

 

Weber points to the building. "This way, please." 

 

Caitlyn follows her. "What can you tell me about the nurse with my name?" 

 

"Sadly, very little. She just disappeared."

 

"And the victim, Zhang Wu?" Mel asks. 

 

"He was lying here, and he was poisoned with carbon monoxide, and his balls were, um... I don't know the word in English." 

 

"Clamped." Caitlyn finishes. 

 

"Clamped. Ja. That sounds right." Weber laughs. 

 

Caitlyn and Mel look around the room. 

 

"Any other exits?"

 

"Nope. She went out the front door." Weber denies. 

 

"Oh."

 

"All their clients use fake names and cash, so we can't get any more witness accounts." 

 

"I imagine the clientele aren't keen on CCTV here. Can we see the autopsy report?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

Weber nods. "Jin, the eccentric Chinese attaché, ordered a second opinion." 

 

"Why?"

 

"I assume the Chinese government weren't happy with the first, but you'd have to ask him." 

 

"How can I get hold of Jin?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

"I'll give you his e-mail. He never replies. Your best bet is the morgue, really." Weber takes out his phone, and Caitlyn types the address on her phone. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

"Sounds like the Chinese are trying to bury this case." Mel sighs in annoyance. They're outside the same building, their bags behind them. 

 

"Let's just get some lunch and e-mail the attaché." Caitlyn nods. But then... "You know, I'm gonna try something. Wait for me? I need to make a call."

 

Mel nods, and frowns in confusion as Caitlyn walks away from her. Mel turns to Weber and continues talking to her. 

 

Caitlyn dials Kenny, and puts the phone against her ear. After two rings, he picks up.

 

"Hey. What's up, Caitlyn?" 

 

"Hello, Kenny, if I give you someone's e-mail address, can you find out where they might be right now?" 

 

"Yes, if it connected to their phone." 

 

Caitlyn smiles to herself. "Great. I'm sending it to you." 

 

When she walks back to Mel, they're already saying goodbye. 

 

"Thank you so much for your cooperation, Weber." Caitlyn tells him. 

 

"No problem."

 

"She's going to send the e-fit to the receptionist." Mel tells her. 

 

"Oh, that's wonderful. Kenny is finding Jin for us as we're speaking." 

 

Caitlyn hears her phone ringing, and she picks up. 

 

"I got his mobile from his e-mail. I'm sending his precise location now." Kenny tells her. 

 

"Thank you, Kenny. This is creepy already."

 

"I know, sorry." He tells her. 

 

"Bye."

 

"See ya."

 

Caitlyn hangs up her phone, and when she turns around, Mel is busy talking to Weber again. That's when she notices. 

 

"Where's my suitcase?" 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx drops the bag on her hotel bed. It's heavy enough to bounce three times, until it sets there in the middle, motionless. She unzips it, licking a lollipop and humming to the song she's playing in the background. Inside, she finds clothes folded to perfection. 

 

Jinx can't wait to know her. 

 

Caitlyn's clothes are boring, and Jinx cringes at the sight of them. Caitlyn has quality clothes, and yet not much of a style. Jinx smirks to herself, grabbing a turtle neck and holding it close to her chest. She brings it to her face and takes a deep breath, enjoying Caitlyn's scent in them. She grabs a scarf, smells it again, and again, again, with every item she finds there. She takes out her perfume, and sniffs it too. 

 

It's good, but Jinx knows she can make Caitlyn a better one. 

 

And then, beneath the boring shirts and weird pants, Jinx smirks at the sight of Caitlyn's underwear. It's attractive, so red and small that Jinx has to bite a moan. She grabs it and examines it. It's a bit worn, but still holds it's shape. The fabric is lace, really good quality lace too. 

 

She brings the lacy pair of panties to her face, and inhales as deep as she can. Jinx moans softly, letting herself fall on the free side of the bed. She closes her eyes, pictures Caitlyn wearing these, and moans again, needier. 

 

Jinx lays in bed, stomach down and facing her phone. Jinx watches a video of Caitlyn in a shooting competition, and sniffs again. Between her legs, her desire pools and  ruins her own underwear. Jinx shoves her hand between her legs and applies pressure to her clit, her fingers unmoving. 

 

She moans, soft and gentle, watching Caitlyn expertly handle her rifle. The way the uniform clings to her body in the most deadly way possible. The way Caitlyn looks so concentrated and precise in every move of her body. Jinx finds the part of the video where they focus on her hands, and she rubs circles between her lips, frantic. 

 

Jinx feels every pore of her body needing to be touched. She needs to come, she needs to reach her high, and then do it again. 

 

Jinx groans, her left hand cramping just slightly as Jinx's full body weight is crushing it. But she's not stopping, she can't. Jinx just bucks her hips, meeting her own fingers with every thrust. Her right hand replays the video, over and over again, a compilation of Caitlyn's best shots. 

 

Jinx whines, eyes rolling behind until she cums all over the bed,screaming Caitlyn's name. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Jinx hears her hotel room door open, and she lifts her gaze from her phone. Then, she sees Silco looking at her from across the living room, hands inside his pockets. He wears his usual jacket, his hair messy and his eye twitching. 

 

"I knew I smelled bitch somewhere." Jinx greets. 

 

"Sorry, are you having a nice little holiday here?" Silco says, waving a postcard in front of her with a new target code. 

 

"Yes. Why?" 

 

Silco scoffs in disbelief. "I booked you in for one night. You've been here for three days."

 

"And? I like Berlin. I'm paying the hotel myself. Why are you throwing a hissy fit?"

 

"I have a job for you. Off the record." Silco tells her. "The woman, Caitlyn Kirma..." 

 

"Kiramman." Jinx corrects him. 

 

"She's here." He says. "She's investigating your work." 

 

"Did you see where I did it?" Jinx grins. "That motherfucker and his minuscule dick were so disgusting. I swear I've never seen a dick so deformed and ugly. Yours is probably worse."

 

"Very cute, yes. It's quite your style." Silco grins. "Aren't you worried about Caitlyn?" 

 

Jinx scoffs. "No. I don't even think about her."

 

"Really?" Silco rolls his eyes. "So you're not thinking about the older woman with big tits and amazing hair she wears in a ponytail? The one totally your type?" 

 

Jinx shakes her head. 

 

"Why does she think it was you?" 

 

Jinx shrugs, playing it cool. 

 

"Look. I want you to watch her. I need to know who she meets. This is me asking you. Not them, okay?" Silco orders. "Promise you won't be naughty." 

 

"I promise I won't be naughty." Jinx lies. 

 

That's when the door to her hotel room opens. There, the woman Jinx fucked hard yesterday stands. She looks excited, flustered, yet confused at Silco's presence. 

 

"Oh. Sorry, they gave me the key downstairs..." She says, looking at Silco. "I'm sorry, am I interrupting something?" 

 

Silco gives the woman a look, from head to toes, and he smirks. Of course Jinx is having women inside her hotel room. "Not at all. Hello."

 

"This is my friend. Her name is Pamela." Jinx introduces them. 

 

"Hi, Pamela. I'm her uncle." Silco says. "I'll be gone now." 

 

As Silco leaves her hotel room, Pamela comes up to Jinx and kisses her hard. 

 

The, Jinx pulls her closer, and whispers. "Before I fuck you, I have a few clothes I want you to wear." She says, points at Caitlyn's suitcase on her bed. Pamela giggles. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

"In my defense, your clothes need an update and I can take you shopping anytime you want to." Mel tells her, as they walk down the street. 

 

They're going where Kenny told them Jin is. 

 

"My clothes are fine!" Caitlyn glares at her. 

 

Mel rolls her eyes, arms crossed. "You're two steps away from being a nun, darling."

 

Caitlyn sighs. "Fine. After this, let's go shopping. We'll buy a new suitcase too." 

 

Mel smirks. "Good. And you're going to buy at least two outfits I select for you."

 

"Deal." Caitlyn nods. 

 

Caitlyn frowns as she looks around for Jin. She pulls Mel towards a table in a restaurant, and looks around. Until, at a distance, she spots him. 

 

"Let's go."

 

Caitlyn and Mel walk up to the man's table. He's a bald man, short in stature and full of beard. He sits on the table alone, eating his food while he texts on his phone. When Caitlyn and Mel walk up to him, he smiles, sleazy. 

 

"Hello, Jin. We're with the British Secret Intelligence and we would like to ask you about Zhang Wu." Mel asks. 

 

Jin is quick to dismiss them, taking a whiff of his cigarette. "Please leave. I have no information to give you. I don't know anything about Colonel Zhang." 

 

Caitlyn raises an eyebrow at him, and shows him her badge. "My name is Caitlyn Kiramman."

 

There's a shock in his eyes about the name. 

 

"Strange coincidence about your name." Jin says, signaling to the chairs in front of him. "Sit down."

 

"Officer Weber mentioned a second autopsy." Mel comments. "Why would you need one?" 

 

"Ah, yes, that's just come through." Jin replies, smiling wide. 

 

"Can we see it?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

"After you've been vetted." Jin nods. 

 

"When will that be?" 

 

"The usual. Six months or so."

 

"Six months?" Caitlyn scoffs. 

 

"It's in your interests to cooperate." Mel tells Jin. "Listen, your colleague was targeted." 

 

"I'm joking! I'm joking! I'll get it for you." Jin says, grinning. 

 

"What do you know about this guy?" Caitlyn asks him. 

 

"Internally, the guy was known as "Fat Panda," which is a little racist. Fattist, come to that. But I hear that he started it so, you know, we went along. He was based in China, but over here in Berlin a lot. He was popular, good leader, nice man. His death has shocked a lot of people."

 

" Who do you think murdered him?" Mel asks. 

 

"Spoiler alert. The new autopsy report says he died of a heart attack." Jin grins, proud. 

 

"Wait, what?" 

 

"Yes, yes. Doesn't that sound better?" He says, smoking. 

 

"The nurse who was supposed to be on duty was drugged. This was a blatant assassination. And by the operative I'm looking for." Caitlyn exclaims in frustration. 

 

"And as the Chinese attaché, I'm saying it was a heart attack." Jin shrugs. "Listen, the Chinese government are freaking out. It's a PR nightmare. This story cannot exist." 

 

"What's the Chinese story?" Mel asks. 

 

"The new autopsy concludes that he took the initiative himself when the covering nurse left the room, working the forceps to experience a shock of pain that triggered a cardiac arrest. Not my thing, honestly."

 

"Not his, either." Caitlyn shakes her head. 

 

"Why not? He was a masochist." Jin shrugs. 

 

"Look, kinks are totally specific. It's not just about pain, it's a contract. It's about someone else taking control. A "spankophile" wouldn't just spank himself, would he? I mean, what would be the point in that?" Mel tells him, as a matter of fact. 

 

"I'm afraid we have run out of time." Jin tells them. Caitlyn and Mel share a look, and sigh. They get up. As they begin to walk away, they hear him speak.

 

"Wait." Jin calls. "Maybe Miss Kiramman would like to join me for dinner tonight? Perhaps we could continue the conversation then. I might have something you could extract from me." 

 

Caitlyn grimaces in disgust, and rolls her eyes in annoyance. "Fine."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

"He wants to have sex with you." Mel giggles as they walk back to their hotel room. 

 

"Don't start, please."

 

"He wants to fondle you." Mel teases, pointing at Caitlyn's chest. "And he just might."

 

"Only because you got him all hot with that, you know, kink stuff." Caitlyn rolls her eyes. "And I don't want to do anything with him. He's ugly and creepy."

 

"Well, I'm going to rest for an hour. Meanwhile, I want you to get ready so we can go shopping. You can't get any information from this man looking like that."

 

Caitlyn glares at Mel, and nods. "Fine. See you in an hour."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn pulls the curtain shut behind her and exhales, steadying herself. Shopping is supposed to be simple—select, purchase, move on. She's alway been the practical buyer. She doesn't buy to look pretty, she buys clothes to be comfortable. Yet she stands in front of the mirror, frowning at the blouse she picked out. Plain navy. High collar. Safe. She turns, checking the side view, and sighs. Functional. Respectable. Dull.

 

She slips into another option: a white shirt tucked neatly into tailored trousers. Crisp lines, appropriate for her age, but it makes her look like she’s heading to a board meeting rather than… living. She shakes her head.

 

The curtain stirs. Caitlyn looks down, startled, and sees a hand shove a cluster of hangers through the gap before vanishing again. She blinks, staring at the new clothes dangling from the hook: bold colors, flowing fabrics, hems cut far shorter than anything she’d ever dare choose. A silk dress in deep red. A leather skirt. A fitted top with scandalously little fabric. Even a pair of scarlet heels. But most importantly, a black suit. 

 

Her brows knit together. “I didn’t ask for these…” she murmurs. The hand she saw putting the clothes in was white, so it wasn't Mel. But who could it be? Perhaps the shop assistant? 

 

Caitlyn doesn't mind it. 

 

For a moment, she assumes the shop girl must have peeked at her choices and taken pity on her. How forward of her, Caitlyn thinks, cheeks warming. She brushes her fingers over the smooth silk, torn between indignation and curiosity. These pieces are far too daring, far too unlike her—but strangely enough, she can almost picture herself in them.

 

With a hesitant glance at the curtain, Caitlyn sighs. “Perhaps… just to see if they fit?”

 

She doesn’t notice the pair of doe eyes watching from between two racks across the boutique, bright with mischief.  

 

Caitlyn slips the first dress over her head, the deep red silk whispering against her skin. It clings in places she normally hides, falls loose in others, and the moment she turns to the mirror her breath hitches. 

 

Oh.

 

The color sharpens the blue of her eyes, the neckline dips lower than she’s used to, and her legs—when has she ever noticed her own legs?—look long, elegant, commanding. Heat creeps into her cheeks. She twists slightly, studying the way the fabric shapes her figure, and for the first time that afternoon, she doesn’t look like a politician’s daughter. She looks… like herself. Or perhaps like a version of herself she has never dared to show. 

 

She tries the leather skirt next. The fit is scandalous, hugging close, the skirt too short for her. But when she pairs it with the cropped top, something sparks inside her. It shows her abs, and accentuates her breasts in the best way possible. It’s wild, rebellious, a kind of freedom she hasn’t felt since sneaking out of her family’s estate as a teenager. She blushes furiously at her reflection, caught between embarrassment and delight.

 

Piece after piece, she slips them on, each more daring than the last, until the little dressing room feels warm with her laughter. She gathers the hangers in her arms, decisive for once. “I’ll take all of them,” she tells the surprised shop girl at the counter, her cheeks still pink.

 

Across the boutique, unseen by Caitlyn, a pair of bright, hungry eyes follow her every move. Jinx leans against a display, lips quirking into a crooked grin as she watches Caitlyn place the bold, beautiful clothes onto the counter. She loves the way Caitlyn glows in them, the way her face lights up when she thinks no one’s looking.

 

The hunter’s thrill hums in Jinx’s veins. Caitlyn has no idea she’s being watched, no idea every blush and shy smile is feeding someone’s obsession. Jinx lingers in the shadows, drinking it in, already plotting what she’ll pick for her at the next shop she goes to. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn props her phone against the lamp on her hotel desk, smoothing her hair before answering. The screen flickers, then Matias’s face fills it, his face a bit happy. 

 

“Everything’s fine! I'm safe, I promise.” Caitlyn greets. “I just wanted to check in.”

 

Behind her, the corner of a bold red dress peeks out from where she draped it over the chair. Matias squints, leaning closer to his camera.

 

“Wait a second… what’s that?” He points accusingly. “When did you buy that dress?”

 

Caitlyn freezes, caught. “Oh… that.” She clears her throat, straightening her posture. “I… may have lost my suitcase. So I had to go shopping.”

 

His eyebrows shoot up. “Really? Again?”

 

“It was misplaced,” she corrects sharply, though her ears burn. “I had no choice. I had to replace everything.”

 

“Everything?” His grin spreads, wolfish. “So what, you went shopping like a madwoman?”

 

She exhales through her nose. “Clothes, jewelry, underwear, hygiene products, shoes—”

 

“Underwear, huh?” Matias cuts in, smirking. “So, is that dress part of the emergency survival kit? Or…” His eyes glint mischievously. “Planning to wear it on a hot date with Mel?”

 

Caitlyn rolls her eyes so hard it nearly aches. “Yes. I'm going on a date, and yes I'm going out with Mel. Actually, she helped me buy some of these clothes.”

 

“Mmhm,” he teases, leaning back in his chair. "Enjoy your date.”

 

She presses her lips together, unwilling to let him see how flustered she is. “Goodnight, Matias.”

 

He chuckles, lifting a hand in surrender. “Alright, alright. Buenas noches.”

 

The call ends, the room falling into silence. Caitlyn sits back, her gaze drifting toward the dress again. Her fingers twitch, remembering how she had blushed when she tried it on. She shakes her head quickly, forcing herself to focus on the date. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn stands in front of the mirror, smoothing the crimson fabric over her hips. The silk dress clings in ways she’s still not used to, and she can’t decide if it feels empowering or simply indecent. Behind her, Mel lounges casually on the edge of the bed, her golden eyes sharp and approving.

 

“You look stunning already,” Mel says, chin resting on her hand. “That color does more for you than navy ever could. It brings out your eyes.”

 

Caitlyn ducks her head, adjusting the strap on her shoulder. “It’s… a bit much, isn’t it?”

 

Mel rises gracefully, circling her like a jeweler inspecting a gem. She stops behind Caitlyn, one manicured finger tapping the line of fabric across her back. “Mm. The cut is perfect, but… you’ll have to lose the bra. It ruins the line.”

 

Caitlyn stiffens, heat rushing to her cheeks. “I beg your pardon—”

 

Before she can protest further, Mel slips the strap off her shoulder with expert ease, fingers brushing against her skin. In one smooth motion, she unclasps the hooks and pulls the bra away, tossing it onto the bed with a satisfied hum.

 

“There,” Mel murmurs, hands light on Caitlyn’s arms as she guides her back toward the mirror. “Now look.”

 

Caitlyn does—and nearly forgets to breathe. Without the bra, the dress falls the way it was meant to, sleek and elegant, draping across her body with a natural flow. The neckline draws the eye, the fabric clings just enough, and suddenly she looks nothing like the careful, modest woman who walked into the shop to buy it. 

 

Her reflection is bold. Striking. Dangerous.

 

Mel’s gaze lingers on her with open appreciation. “Now that is too hot to be wasted on anyone who doesn’t deserve it. You look wonderful, Caitlyn. In fact, when you're done with Jin, call me. I'll take you somewhere nice.”

 

Caitlyn swallows hard, her face aflame. She wants to argue, to dismiss the compliment, but the words refuse to come. Instead she just blushes deeper, unable to look away from her reflection.

 

Caitlyn smooths the dress down once more, still a little pink from Mel’s bold handling. Mel studies her reflection, arms folded, a smile playing at her lips.

 

“You’ll do nicely,” Mel says, voice low, calculating. “The colonel is a cautious man. He won’t let slip a thing over wine and conversation. But if he believes you’re interested… if you seduce him, he’ll give you what we need.”

 

Caitlyn stiffens, turning sharply. “Seduce him?”

 

Mel tilts her head, entirely unbothered. “You’re beautiful, Caitlyn. Men like him are predictable. Use it.”

 

Caitlyn’s pulse stumbles. The word seduce sits heavy in her chest, mixing with the heat of the dress clinging to her skin. She averts her gaze, searching for a safer subject. “Matias, ah… he seems jealous of you.”

 

That earns a rich, amused laugh from Mel, deep and warm. She steps closer, brushing an invisible crease from Caitlyn’s shoulder. “Your husband knows I adore you. He should be jealous.”

 

Caitlyn blinks, startled by the honesty, then blurts before she can stop herself: “Have you… ever liked me as more than a friend?”

 

The silence that follows feels endless. Then Mel grins, slow and knowing, her eyes gleaming gold in the dim light. She leans in, lips curving just at Caitlyn’s ear.

 

“Yes,” she murmurs, “of course I have.” Her hand lingers a moment too long at Caitlyn’s arm before she pulls back, her smile softening into something more bittersweet. “But I’m a married woman now.”

 

Caitlyn’s throat tightens. She nods, staring at the floor, though her cheeks betray her with their flush. She doesn’t know whether to feel relieved or disappointed.

 

Mel, ever composed, only straightens and smooths her skirt. “Now. Let’s get you ready to make a colonel talk.”

 

The hotel room is quiet after dinner preparations. Caitlyn sits at the vanity, carefully putting on her new earrings, while Mel pours them both a glass of wine. The dress still clings to her, the faint buzz of the evening lingering in her skin.

 

Mel sets a glass beside her. "You're going to do great tonight. If he oversteps, you tell me. I'll be there in a second to se him straight."

 

Caitlyn forces a thin smile, but her chest is tight. She stares at her reflection, at the red silk framing her face, at the woman she barely recognizes anymore. Her fingers tremble slightly as they toy with the stem of her glass.

 

“Mel,” she says at last, her voice softer than she intends. “There’s something I’ve never told you.”

 

Mel arches an elegant brow, sinking into the chair opposite her. “That sounds serious.”

 

Caitlyn exhales, shoulders taut. “I’m… I’m a lesbian.” The words spill out before she can retreat. “I never wanted to marry Matias. My mother arranged it for us—political convenience, appearances, the family name. I did what was expected of me. I thought I could… endure it.” She swallows hard, eyes burning. “But I can’t. I want to be happy. And that means I can’t stay in a marriage that isn’t mine.”

 

For a long moment, silence stretches between them. Caitlyn stares into her wine, bracing herself for judgment.

 

Instead, Mel’s lips curve into the softest smile. She leans forward, her voice low and warm. “Then good for you. You deserve happiness, Caitlyn. You’ve earned it a hundred times over.”

 

Caitlyn blinks at her, stunned. Relief crashes over her in waves, leaving her dizzy. Her lips part as if to thank her, but Mel is already moving.

 

She leans across the narrow space, cupping Caitlyn’s face with a gentle hand, and presses her lips against hers. It’s a kiss full of warmth and quiet promise, soft and lingering, a seal of solidarity.

 

Caitlyn’s heart stutters. She closes her eyes and lets herself melt into it, for once not thinking of duty or expectation, but only of how it feels to be wanted.

 

When they part, Mel’s golden eyes gleam with both mischief and tenderness. “Now that,” she murmurs, “is long overdue.”

 

Caitlyn giggles softly, the sound surprising even herself. She leans forward and kisses Mel back, tentative at first, then more certain. Their lips linger, warm and steady, until finally they draw apart, both smiling faintly.

 

Caitlyn lowers her gaze, a flush rising across her cheeks. “I’ve never felt… desired enough,” she admits, her voice barely above a whisper.

 

Mel tilts her head, studying her with sharp, affectionate eyes. “Caitlyn,” she says firmly, “Anyone with working eyes would fancy you. Desire you.” Her fingers graze Caitlyn’s jaw, tracing the line of her blush. “The fact that you doubt it only hinders you from going after what you want.”

 

The words strike deep, and Caitlyn feels her breath catch. She leans in again, capturing Mel’s lips in a soft, grateful kiss. It’s slower this time, warmer, her heart thudding in her chest.

 

But when she draws back, Mel’s expression shifts, sly and practical all over again. “That said,” she murmurs, brushing a thumb over Caitlyn’s cheek, “you still need to seduce the colonel if we’re going to get anything useful out of him.”

 

Caitlyn pulls back, rolling her eyes, exasperated. “You always ruin the moment.”

 

Mel only laughs, rich and unbothered. “That’s because I’m right.”

 

Caitlyn huffs, but after a moment, she nods, resigned. “Fine. I’ll do it.”

 

Mel smiles, lifting her glass of wine in a mock toast. “That’s my girl. And hey, this explains the very gay way you described that killer nurse in the bathroom. I can't believe your type is petite girls with doe eyes."

 

Caitlyn blushes bright red,and doesn't dare say anything back.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The black car idles at the curb, its engine purring low against the city noise. Mel slips a folded bill into the driver’s hand, her expression smooth but commanding.

 

“Make sure she gets there,” Mel says, tilting her head toward Caitlyn.

 

Caitlyn straightens the lapel of her coat, her eyes bright with determination. “I can manage on my own, you know,” she teases lightly, but there’s gratitude in her tone.

 

Mel smirks, brushing invisible lint from Caitlyn’s shoulder, her touch lingering just long enough to feel protective. “Consider it a gift. Dinner dates are supposed to be enjoyed, not rushed. Indulge a little. And remember—keep him talking.”

 

Caitlyn giggles softly, then steps toward the car. “Fine. I’ll enjoy myself.” She ducks inside, the door closing with a quiet click. The driver shifts into gear and pulls away, taillights glowing red until they vanish into traffic.

 

Mel exhales, adjusting the cuff of her blazer, ready to head back toward her own assignment—when she freezes. Across the street, a figure lingers in the shadows. A woman, slim and restless, her movements sharp, her grin sharp enough to cut glass. Even in the blur of neon signs and passing headlights, there’s no mistaking the wild energy radiating off her.

 

The killer. Or someone who could be her twin.

 

Mel narrows her eyes, pulse quickening. She can’t afford to lose her.

 

With a quiet curse, she slips into the crowd, her heels clicking against the pavement as she follows. The woman darts through the mess of bodies and neon, never slowing, weaving between late-night revelers with the kind of grace that feels too practiced, too dangerous.

 

Mel doesn’t hesitate. She picks up her pace, every instinct alive. Caitlyn’s dinner fades from her mind. This woman—this ghost they’ve been chasing—has chosen to show herself. And Mel will not let her slip away. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The restaurant hums with soft music and muted conversation, but Caitlyn feels every eye shift as she enters. The red silk dress glides against her skin, the heels clicking sharp and confident on the marble floor. She straightens her shoulders, reminding herself she is not the nervous woman from the dressing room earlier—tonight, she's a femme fatale.

 

At the corner table, the Chinese colonel rises, his uniform sharp, his posture proud. For a moment his composure falters. His eyes trail over Caitlyn with undisguised hunger.

 

“Miss Kiramman,” he says smoothly, though his voice catches at the end. “You honor me.”

 

Caitlyn inclines her head with practiced grace, sliding into the seat opposite him. “Colonel.” She lets the faintest smile curve her lips. “Thank you for having me here."

 

His laugh is startled, delighted. He gets up, pulling the chair for her to sit. "It's my pleasure."

 

They fall into an easy rhythm, words layered with subtle flirtation. He leans closer when she speaks, utterly hypnotized by the way her lips form each word. Caitlyn keeps her tone light, her laughter soft, though under the table her hands clench in her lap.

 

The waiter appears, and Caitlyn orders without hesitation, choosing an array of dishes she knows will draw the colonel into lingering longer. He keeps talking, and talking and though Caitlyn rolls her eyes inwardly, she answers with teasing grace, giving him just enough to keep him leaning forward to look at her tits. 

 

At last, as their plates are cleared, she tilts her head, eyes steady on his. “Colonel… you must know I didn’t accept your invitation without an agenda.”

 

His smile curves slow, dangerous. “Yes. You want something.”

 

“Yes,” Caitlyn says smoothly, though her pulse jumps. “Information. You know what I want to know. Please.”

 

He swirls his wine, gaze lingering over her neckline before he meets her eyes again. “And why should I give this to you, hm? Information is never free.”

 

Caitlyn keeps her expression composed, though her stomach knots. “What do you want in return?”

 

His smile deepens. “Something worth trading, of course. Perhaps… something only you can give me.”

 

"A kiss?" She asks, wary. 

 

Jin grins. "That works for me."

 

Caitlyn sees him take out a small box from his jacket. He slides the gift towards her, and she frowns in confusion. 

 

"I also got you a little, tiny, lovely gift." 

 

"What's the information on Zhang Wu?" 

 

Jun sighs. "Okay. You guessed right, my government fiddled with the facts, because sex is taboo. But I guarantee, we didn't do it. And unless I really want to piss off my superiors, I can't take this much further. You, on the other hand...What I tell you, you never repeat, okay?"

 

Caitlyn nods. "Continue."

 

"Last week, Fat Panda hacked into the account of an agent of the Chinese Intelligence. An organization has been paying him millions. We don't know what for, but a week later, both Fat Panda and the agent were dead." 

 

"Okay." Caitlyn nods. She reaches out to the small gift box, and opens it. Inside, there's a 32GB USB DRIVE. Caitlyn smirks. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn slams the door behind her, heels clicking against the pavement as she strides away, leaving the colonel’s shadowy figure lingering in the tinted glass. The limo drives off, finally. 

 

The night air is thick, heavy with rain that threatens to fall again, and her breath comes fast, uneven. She adjusts her dress, her pulse still pounding from the confrontation in the car. But then—her phone buzzes in her clutch.

 

She pulls it out and freezes. Two missed calls from Mel.

 

Her stomach twists. She fumbles to unlock the screen, pressing play on the first voicemail.

 

Caitlyn… it’s her. I saw her. I’m following—don’t call back, just stay safe. I’ll keep you updated.

 

The voice cuts out with static. Caitlyn’s chest tightens, fingers trembling as she scrolls. The second voicemail is only a few minutes later.

 

She went inside. A strip club near Cassiopeia. I can’t lose her now. Hurry if you can.

 

The message ends abruptly, as if Mel was moving quickly, whispering into her phone without breaking stride.

 

Caitlyn feels her throat go dry. Her heart stutters, and then a surge of adrenaline floods her veins. Jinx. Mel is alone with Jinx.

 

She opens the texts next—short, clipped, urgent.

 

“Don’t wait.”

“Strip club near Cassiopeia, corner of Kruger and Holt.”

“Get here fast.”

 

The last message is only ten minutes old.

 

Caitlyn shoves the phone back into her clutch, her mind already racing. She doesn’t think—she just moves, flagging down a cab with a sharp whistle. The driver slows, and she yanks the door open.

 

“Cassiopeia district. Corner of Kruger and Holt.”

 

The cabbie gives her a wary look at the steel in her voice, but he doesn’t argue. The car jerks forward, weaving into traffic. Caitlyn presses her forehead against the cold glass, her reflection pale and tense in the neon glow of the city.

 

Every red light feels like a knife twisting deeper, every second wasted another chance lost. And Caitlyn can’t shake the dread blooming in her chest—the fear that she’s already too late.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Mel pushes through the crowded street, her heels clicking hard against the pavement as she keeps her eyes fixed on the flash of blue braids weaving ahead of her. Her breath is steady, but her pulse is sharp—fast. She can’t lose her. Not now.

 

“Stop!” she calls, but the girl doesn’t slow. Jinx slips through the neon glow of a strip club’s entrance, swallowed by pulsing lights and bass-heavy music.

 

Mel doesn’t hesitate. She follows.

 

Inside, the air is thick with perfume and sweat, the shimmer of sequins under the strobe. Dancers sway across the stage, but Mel has eyes only for the figure cutting through the chaos like a knife. Jinx doesn’t glance back—she moves with purpose, slipping past velvet curtains into the VIP section.

 

Mel presses forward, ignoring the curious stares of bouncers, her stride commanding enough to grant her passage. She ducks into the private booth, the heavy curtain falling shut behind her. The space is dim, lit only by red lights that drip across the leather seating.

 

Jinx stands at the far end, her silhouette lean and taut, mismatched eyes gleaming in the half-dark.

 

Mel’s voice is low, firm. “You’re not getting away this time.”

 

Jinx tilts her head, lips curling into a crooked smile. “Didn’t know we were playin’ tag, Goldie eyes.”

 

Before Mel can respond, Jinx lunges.

 

It happens fast—too fast. A sharp pivot, a strike to the wrist, a twist that sends Mel off balance. Jinx’s movements are fluid, practiced, the kind of martial precision that comes from both training and survival. She sweeps low, catches Mel’s center of gravity, and with a violent jerk she drives her into the padded wall of the booth.

 

Mel gasps, her vision sparking white. She fights back, a sharp elbow strike, but Jinx is faster. A palm to the throat, a twist of the hip, and suddenly Mel’s knees buckle.

 

The last thing she feels is Jinx’s breath at her ear, sing-song and cruel. “Goodnight, Mel.”

 

Darkness rushes up, and Mel slumps against the booth—out cold.

 

Jinx straightens, dusts her hands, and steps over her with a grin, vanishing back into the booth. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn gulps at the sight before her. 

 

She's at the strip club that Mel said she entered while following Jinx's trail. The music echoes through the place, and the bass makes the walls shake. It's crowded as expected, with several girls dancing on stage. The waitresses skate near her, but Caitlyn doesn't mind them. She tries her best to avoid looking at the strippers bodies, but it's harder than finding Jinx. Her eyes linger on the women's bodies, and their backs tits and everything. If she'd been to one of these clubs before, she'd spend her entire weekend just getting lapdances and spending her fortune on them. 

 

She walks towards the VIP section, and looks into the booths, one by one. Until, at last, she finds it. 

 

The door is open, and Jinx sits on the couch, legs spread wide. Jinx wears a pair of black baggy pants, customized with paint and art that Caitlyn can't recognize. Her torso is out in the open; she's wearing a white tank top and a few golden chains as jewelry. Jinx wears her tattoos freely, clouds that decorate her torso and arms in sky blue puffs. Her eyes shimmer a magenta light in contrast to the room's red lights. Jinx wears her blue short hair barely above her shoulders. She wears a pair of designer boots, custom and heavy duty. On her wrists and fingers, she wears enough expensive jewelry that Caitlyn wonders how rich she is. Caitlyn is familiar with good clothes. She knows what Jinx is wearing costs around ten thousand euros, between clothes, boots and jewelry alone. 

 

Caitlyn is smitten. Her face blushes to a scarlet red. Is Jinx high on shimmer? Jinx is looking at her with a raw desire. Caitlyn sees Jinx's eyes roaming all over her body, appreciating her body. Caitlyn feels herself flustered, cheeks red under her scrutinizing gaze. 

 

"Fuck..." Jinx says, eyes roaming Caitlyn's body. "You're gorgeous." 

 

She points her gun a Caitlyn, but... Something in her gaze softens. Caitlyn's carrying her custom desert eagle under her dress. If she could just grab it- 

 

"Lock the door behind you, princess."

 

Caitlyn closes the door. Her eyes dart immediately to Mel—slumped sideways on the velvet sofa, head lolling, golden dress glittering under the red neon light.

 

“Mel—!” Caitlyn rushed in, heart lurching.

 

“Relax.” The voice comes lazy, playful, threaded with sing-song malice. Caitlyn freezes on her spot. Her gaze snaps to the other end of the booth where Jinx sits—legs sprawled open, gun glinting under the strobe lights. Her lips pulled into a sharp grin as she points the gun towards her, her short blue hair moving with her head. “Your friend’s just takin’ a nap. Shhh.”

 

Caitlyn’s chest was tight, fury burning in her throat. “What did you do to her?!”

 

“Mm, nothing permanent.” Jinx tilts her head, humming, then wiggles the gun in her hand like a baton. “If you don’t believe me, legs, go check for yourself. I just knocked her out. I didn't want my woman upset with me.”

 

Caitlyn tries to pretend Jinx's words aren't affecting her. But something deep and dark within her enjoys Jinx calling her 'her woman'. She's possessive, always has been. But there's something about the way Jinx's voice sounds that she's aroused. 

 

Caitlyn didn’t trust her, but her body moves anyway. Kneeling, fingers trembling slightly, she presses two fingers to Mel’s neck. A steady pulse. Warmth. Caitlyn lets out a breath she didn't know she was holding in, and hugs Mel's body in her arms. 

 

“I told ya.” Jinx chimes in, her grin widening. “Killing isn't always fun. And right now? I'm having a blast.”

 

Caitlyn wants to cry. She gets up, her muscles coiled, every instinct screaming to lunge for her gun. But Jinx’s gaze slides downward, lingering on the slit of Caitlyn’s dress, the pale line of thigh revealed with each movement.

 

“You're wearing the dress I left for you in the changing room.” Jinx purrs, leaning forward. She caresses Caitlyn's right leg, too damn close to the gun. “Damn, you got legs for days."

 

Caitlyn remains silent, because if she speaks, all she's going to say is that Jinx is just as gorgeous. And that she's going crazy for her. 

 

"You were the one giving me clothes today?" Caitlyn asks, her body trembling. 

 

"Yes. And you look gorgeous in what I picked for you."

 

Jinx gets up from her seat, and circles around Caitlyn. She's checking her out, Jinx’s hand shot out—fingers grazing along Caitlyn’s hip, then higher, until they brush the inside of her thigh. Caitlyn inhales sharply, frozen as that touch finds the small holster strapped there, holding her gun. 

 

She's screwed. She's going to die naked, in a stripclub, with her panties drenched in her slick and a bullet of her own through her skull. She's not lost on her attraction to women, but Jinx is the first one to cause this mess bet her legs. 

 

Jinx’s giggle bursts out, delighted. “Oooh… what’s this?” She tugs the gun free, spinning it in her hand. “Pretty little thing, aren’t you? Expensive. Unique. Just like your owner.” She winks, tucking it into her belt. “Thank you for the gift, princess. I promise to not kill anyone with it."

 

“You’ll give that back.” Caitlyn says, her voice steel even as her pulse hammers. She tries to sound stern, but the tremble in her voice gives it away. 

 

"No I won't."Jinx leans back against the sofa, patting her lap with the muzzle of her own gun. “Come here, legs.”

 

Caitlyn’s throat goes dry, with every single drop of blood circulating down between her legs. She's pulsing with need, and the order is filthy every way you look at it. It has her dripping with wetness, and now she wonders if Jinx is going to notice how wet she is.

 

The sensible part of her screamed to fight, to resist, but she doesn't want to do that. No, her body feels a pull towards this woman that she's never felt before, and there's something thrilling about what they're doing. So forbidden. She's pent up with desire, and thirsty for something she can't name. But she can't look away from Jinx's big doe eyes, or the shimmering magenta in them. 

 

Caitlyn raises her dress, eyes never leaving Jinx's. She slowly reveals her legs, muscular and toned as ever, until the dress reaches her mid-thigh. She opens her legs, and steps closer to the edge of the couch, gulping in anticipation. She sits astride Jinx's lap, feeling her petite torso underneath. Caitlyn moans, soft as ever, at the feeling of Jinx's warmth in indirect contact with her pulsing cunt, the pressure making her shiver. 

 

Caitlyn recognizes the lust in Jinx's eyes, as she's now at eye level with Caitlyn's breasts. Jinx inhales sharply, her grin twitching at the corners. Jinx slides her hand down Caitlyn's back, until she reaches Caitlyn's ass. She gives it a firm squeeze, testing the waters. And Caitlyn? 

 

She whines. 

 

“Ohhh, yeah. That’s it.” Jinx whispers, her body leaning into Caitlyn's. "You liked that."

 

Caitlyn sits rigid on Jinx’s lap, her palms pressed against the back of the sofa for balance. Caitlyn's heart is about to burst in excitement, or fear, or maybe a little bit of both. her heartbeat so loud she thought it might drown out the bass thumping through the walls.

 

This is wrong. Dangerous. Humiliating. 

 

But Jinx desires her in a way Caitlyn can see, can feel. And she loves it. Her body is begging for a woman's touch... 

 

"I-I'm... I-I'm married..." 

 

Caitlyn knows it's what she should say, but she doesn't want to stay away from Jinx. Her body feels like a magnet, pulling Jinx in with an invisible pull. She can't help it, because the pressure against her cunt feels better than anything else. Mel is alright, and Jinx is... 

 

Caitlyn feels all her repressed desires oozing out of her. All the girls she liked and denied the attraction to appease her mother. All the times she looked at a woman's body for far too long to be socially acceptable. For all the times she wished Matias had a cunt she could lick. For every time she kissed girls in secret, hidden away from her parent's judgment. 

 

Her body is begging for Jinx's touch, she loves it. Out of all the women she could like... But her body is begging for it. 

 

"I'm not going to force you to do anything." Jinx admits. She lifts her arms, letting go of Caitlyn's ass. "So let's see. I have two guns. Yours and mine. I'm going to put them away, and you can either get up, you can go back to him and be faithful, I'll go. Or... you can sit here and we can have some fun. I'd suggest you don't try to grab the guns though, or I'll have to get violent. What'cha say princess?" 

 

Caitlyn sees Jinx throw the guns across the room, to the floor. Caitlyn looks at the two weapons sliding through, until they reach the other side. Caitlyn meets Jinx's gaze, their eyes meeting in a silent conversation. Jinx’s body is warm beneath her, heat radiating through the thin silk of her dress. Every subtle shift of Jinx’s thighs beneath her sent sparks crawling through Caitlyn’s body. 

 

Caitlyn leans into Jinx's chest, her breath heavy. She looks into magenta eyes and bites her lip, before she reaches out to grab Jinx's hands. And then, gently, Caitlyn presses Jinx's slender fingers against her breasts in a handful. 

 

They both moan. 

 

"Fuck.” Jinx murmurs, her eyes gleaming with mirth. She fondles Caitlyn's breasts, playing with her nipples over the silk of her dress. Jinx leans into Caitlyn's neck, licking and kissing her skin, enjoying the quickened pulse beneath her lips. Caitlyn can't stop looking at Jinx. 

 

She should shove her away, clawed for the gun, anything to be free. But her body isn’t obeying. Jinx catches Caitlyn’s jaw in her free hand, thumb pressing against her chin. Jinx uses her thumb to caress Caitlyn's bottom lip. Caitlyn can't help but take the thumb into her mouth, and suck. 

 

“Yes. Suck it. Be a good girl and show me what you can do, yeah?"

 

Caitlyn’s breath stutters, her cheeks burning red. The heavy smell of her wet cunt hovers in the air beneath them; she sees Jinx watching—hungry, breathless, pupils blown wide.

 

Caitlyn feels herself wet at the sound of those words. Against every rational fiber of her being, she parts her lips, letting the tip of her tongue flick around Jinx's thumb, slow and deliberate.

 

Jinx’s laugh cracks the silence—a jagged, breathless thing. She bucks her hips against Caitlyn's, her free hand holding Caitlyn's hip for leverage. Caitlyn feels herself moaning at the new pressure, grinding back against her. She moans, letting go of her thumb in a second. Jinx brings the thumb to her lips, then, and while looking into Caitlyn's eyes, she sucks it. 

 

"You even taste rich, fuck. I want to eat you out, all night long."

 

Caitlyn’s chest rises and falls fast. She can’t deny it—couldn’t deny the heat in her blood, the flush creeping down her chest, the thrill of seeing Jinx’s manic confidence slip into something raw, desperate. She's sure Jinx can feel how wet she is, considering it's spreading all over Jinx's jeans. 

 

“Strip for me.”

 

The command goes straight to Caitlyn's cunt, and she wants to. She so wants to. She shouldn't... She should be faithful, she should be faithful, she should be faithful. And yet, her hands are already reaching for the straps of her dress.

 

"Watch me."

 

Caitlyn rises slowly from Jinx’s lap, her knees trembling but her movements measured, deliberate. She crosses the room, eyes never leaving Jinx, and taps the stereo booth’s control panel. A sultry beat fills the air—low bass, heavy rhythm, something made for slow bodies grinding. 

 

Jinx leans back, her grin stretching wide, gun dangling loosely in her hand. Her gaze sharpens, pupils dilated, unblinking as she drinks Caitlyn in. Hawk eyes, predatory, yet brimming with something hotter, heavier. Jinx rests one arm on the back of the couch, and uses the other one to caress herself over her jeans. 

 

“Look at you,” she drawls, voice breaking with hunger. “So proper… until you’re not.”

 

Caitlyn turns, chin high, and begins to move. Her hips sway with the music, tentative at first, but as Jinx’s eyes burn into her, something shifts. The humiliation melts into something else—power. She feels it in the way Jinx sits there, mesmerized by her. 

 

Caitlyn's hands skim down her sides, fingers hooking the straps of her dress. With a slow, deliberate pull, she slides them off her shoulders. The fabric clings for a moment before sliding down, revealing pale skin, her big breasts moving with every move, the delicate line of collarbone glistening under neon light.

 

Jinx sucked in a sharp breath, lips parting.

 

Caitlyn stepped closer, letting the dress fall to her waist, exposing lace panties and tits fully. She dances, every move smooth and deliberate. Jinx's hands rub over her clothed cunt, in silence. She only watches, fever-bright and trembling hands. 

 

“Come here,” Jinx finally rasps, voice low, rough. “Give me a show up close.”

 

Caitlyn obeys, stepping between Jinx’s legs. Caitlyn eased herself astride her lap again. But this time, she didn’t freeze. She rolled her hips slowly, grinding against Jinx with the rhythm, her hands braced on Jinx’s shoulders. Every move of her body makes her breasts bounce. 

 

The effect is instant. Jinx’s breath hitches, her manic grin faltering, replaced by something raw, needy. Her hands hover above Caitlyn’s ass before grabbing hold, fingers digging in as though she might shatter if she let go.

 

Caitlyn moved faster, letting herself enjoy the heat building between them, the way Jinx’s eyes darken, how her breath grows ragged. She has never felt so powerful—so wanted, so aroused.

 

She's going to come if they don't stop. 

 

Caitlyn leans closer, her lips brushing Jinx’s ear. She licks it, bites it gently, and then kisses Jinx's neck. Jinx shudders beneath her, a low groan slipping from her throat, and Caitlyn knows they're both too aroused to think logically. 

 

Their eyes meet, a spark igniting between blue and magenta. For a moment it's just them—breath, heat, the taste of danger hanging in the air.

 

And then Jinx grabs a fistful of Caitlyn's hair, which earns her a satisfied groan. 

 

Their grind is messy, frantic, full of hunger, but Caitlyn melts into her grasp, her lips parting. It was reckless, intoxicating—and she loves every second of how much Jinx desires her. 

 

Jinx keeps grinding against Caitlyn, her grin curling wicked as she cuffs Caitlyn's wrists to the edge of the sofa. Caitlyn’s breath catches when cold metal circled her wrists and clicked into place against the couch's frame, trapping her. 

 

"Fuck!" Caitlyn grunts, trying to release herself from it. She feels her vision blurry, and her body feels a sudden surge of energy that makes her see magenta for a minute. Her heart skipps, half with panic, half with pleasure. She really wanted to come. 

 

Jinx leaned over her, nose brushing Caitlyn’s cheek, voice purring low and sweet with lust. 

 

“Such a pretty doll, all wet and dripping for me.”

 

Caitlyn shivers, her chest rising and falling too fast. She wanted to protest, to demand an explanation—but her body betrays her, arching subtly against the restraints, against the heat of Jinx’s presence. Then she feels it, Jinx standing above her, sliding her fingers between Caitlyn's legs, until she reaches her cunt. She slides her fingers through Caitlyn's folds, whining at the heat of it. Caitlyn whines on her spot, but the fingers leave just as fast as they came. 

 

"It's scorching hot, damn." Jinx murmurs, reaching her fingers to her mouth and sucking them off with a moan. "Fuck, I'm taking these."

 

Then Jinx pulls back, standing at the edge of the bed. The wild light in her eyes softens enough for her to be honest. She pulls Caitlyn's panties down, dripping and ruined with her cum. Jinx shoves them into her pocket. “Wish I could stay, legs." Jinx mumbles, tilting her head, her short blue hair swaying. “But I got work to do.”

 

Before Caitlyn can respond, Jinx’s hand comes down in a sharp, playful spank against her ass, just high enough to make her yelp in shock. A sting blooms across her skin, followed by a rush of heat that had no business feeling so good.

 

“Good girl,” Jinx teases, her grin spreading as Caitlyn’s gasp echoes in the room. "I'll see you soon." Then, she was gone—slipping out to beneath her and out of the booth. But not before taking Caitlyn and her own gun into her pocket. Caitlyn lays there, cuffed and breathless, the sting still burning against her skin. She hates how much she loves it.

 

The silence is a heavy fog of guilt and sex. 

 

Caitlyn lays over the couch, wrists red where the cuffs had bitten into her skin. Her breath still comes quick, her body tingling from Jinx's touch. But it wasn’t just a touch—it was fire. 

 

“... I'm in trouble.” Caitlyn whispers hoarsely, almost in fear. That's when she notices a perfect print of Jinx's lips on her left tit, marked with her purple lipstick. And when she looks up, Mel is groaning in pain, waking up from her sleep. 

 

Oh, fuck. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

Notes:

Tysm for reading ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

I hope you liked it!!

Virtual hugs for everyone 😘😘😘

Chapter 4: ERES MÍA

Notes:

Omg hiii I hope everyone enjoys this chapter ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Virtual hugs for everyone and thank you for reading ❤️

Eres mía means 'you're mine' 😘

 

 

 

ERES MÍA 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

 

Mel stirs with a groan, her head lolling against the couch. Caitlyn freezes, wrists still cuffed to the frame of the couch. She's alert, eyes open wide and heart beating fast. 

 

“Caitlyn…?” Mel’s voice is hoarse as she sits up, blinking hard. When her eyes focus, her whole face looks at Caitlyn's naked body taking her in. Inch by inch, Mel appreciates her, looks at her like she's an angel. Caitlyn would differ from her, Mel is the true angel between them. "Why are you... Oh, gods. Did she...?" 

 

“No!” Caitlyn blurts, the word sharp, panicked. Heat rushes up her chest, shame and desire knotted tight in her gut. She shakes her head, unable to look at Mel directly. “She didn’t… she didn’t force me. She didn't rape me.”

 

Mel frowns, scanning her, unsettled. “You’re cuffed. You’re naked. Caitlyn, that doesn’t exactly scream consent.”

 

“She didn't!” Caitlyn admits, voice cracking. Her throat is dry, her mouth tasting faintly of Jinx's sweat still. “She pointed a gun at me, asked me to strip for her, to give her a lap dance. And then… she just—” Her eyes flick to the lipstick mark on her breast. “She took my underwear off and shoved it in her pocket. She took my gun, cuffed me and left me here.”

 

Mel’s jaw tightens, but she says nothing for a beat, processing. Her gaze dips lower and she notices Caitlyn’s missing underwear. “So she didn't touch you in any way against your will?”

 

Caitlyn exhales shakily, her whole body hot with humiliation. “No. She didn't."

 

Because is it really against her will when she wanted it? When she put Jinx's hands over her tits just to feel her groping? 

 

A silence lingers between them. Mel finally shakes her head in disbelief, scoffing. “Unbelievable. That unhinged little psycho was following you! I confronted her to stop her. Followed her here. Gods.” She pulls out her phone, calling for a driver, then glances at Caitlyn again. Her voice drops, more cautious. “We should… get a sample. For DNA. She left a mark on your breasts.”

 

Caitlyn flushes, her nipples hardening as Mel’s gaze lingers for a moment too long. Mel notices, the corner of her mouth twitching despite the tension. “Gods, Caitlyn,” she murmurs, softer. "You're a sight to behold.”

 

Embarrassment curls inside Caitlyn, but she forces a giggle out. “You don’t have to say it like that. I know it’s ridiculous. I just—” She swallows. “Cuffing is… hot. And you're hot. I'm...”

 

Caitlyn gulps on her spot, and in a moment of bravery, she locks her gaze with Mel's. Then, she opens her legs, and lets her get a view of her, entirely. 

 

Mel gets up from her seat, and runs her fingers through Caitlyn's thighs as she stares at her cunt. She gulps. "Fucking hell. You're soaking." Caitlyn blushes on her spot, and Mel pulls away, gulping. "But no. I'm not touching you like this."

 

"Raincheck?" Caitlyn shyly asks. And Mel laughs. 

 

"Yes." Mel leans in, using her hair pin to open Caitlyn's cuffs. Then, when she's free, she starts to help Caitlyn back into her dress. “I’d rather be undressing you. Not… the opposite.”

 

That draws a real laugh out of Caitlyn—awkward, breathless, but genuine. The tension eases just enough as Mel helps her slip back into her clothes, smoothing the fabric down her arms with deliberate care. Caitlyn turns around, and holds Mel in silence. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The ride back to the hotel is quiet. Mel sits beside her, one hand resting over Caitlyn’s without a word, and Caitlyn is grateful for the silence. Her body still hums with desire, her skin flushed with the memory of Jinx’s touch, and she doesn’t trust her voice not to betray her.

 

When the car pulls up to the curb, Mel is the first to step out. She circles to Caitlyn’s side, offering her a steadying hand as though she might collapse. Caitlyn manages a faint smile and takes it, her legs stiff from tension rather than exhaustion.

 

“Caitlyn,” Mel says softly, leaning in once they’re in the quiet glow of their hotel rooms entrance. Her arms encircle her in a gentle hug, warm and grounding, so different from Jinx’s manic grip. She presses a kiss to Caitlyn’s forehead. “You can stay with me tonight. You don’t have to be alone.”

 

Caitlyn’s throat tightens. For a fleeting second, she wants to say yes—to let Mel carry the weight of her trembling body, of the confusion storming inside her. But she shakes her head. “I’ll be alright,” she murmurs. “I just need some rest.”

 

Mel pulls back, studying her. “Are you sure? After what happened—”

 

“She didn’t do anything.” Caitlyn cuts in, maybe too quickly. She holds Mel’s gaze, trying to be reassuring. “Not really. I’m fine.”

 

Mel doesn’t look convinced, but she nods, letting it go for now. “Promise me, then. Tomorrow, just you and me. Brunch. No excuses.”

 

Caitlyn’s lips twitch into a small smile, and she hands Mel a card to her room. “I promise. Here, you can have it. So you can enter in case of an emergency.”

 

She leans in, pressing a soft kiss to Mel’s lips—gentle, chaste, a comfort rather than desire. Then she hugs her tightly, as if she might drown in gratitude.

 

“Goodnight, Mel,” Caitlyn whispers.

 

“Goodnight, darling.” Mel answers, lingering just a moment longer before letting her go.

 

Caitlyn steps back, slipping into the hotel lobby, her chest aching with the weight of secrets. She doesn’t look back until the door closes between them.

 

She goes to the bathroom and uses a cotton swab to get a sample of Jinx's lipstick. She saves it inside a ziplock bag, and puts it in her purse. Then, she gets another look at herself in the mirror. Her makeup is smudged, her tits are full of kiss marks and her hair is still so messy after what she did with Jinx. 

 

It's wrong. It's wrong. It's wrong. 

 

Because it's what she should be thinking about what she just did. Jinx is a psychopath. A murderer. Jinx is a stalker and so many other negative things... But Caitlyn couldn't stop the pull between them. 

 

Even if she's married, even if she's scared of Jinx, even if she knows how terrible she is... Caitlyn wanted to touch her, feel her, kiss her. 

 

Why didn't Jinx try to kiss her? She finds herself sad at the question. 

 

Caitlyn removes the beautiful dress, and walks towards the shower. She turns on the warm water, and sighs in joy at the way it relaxes her. She washes her hair, her body, and then rinses herself off. She should go out then, go rest for the night. It's already 2 am. But she moves her hand between her legs. 

 

The ghost of Jinx's lips haunts her skin. She yearns for a release that she didn't get. Her body begs her for an orgasm that is long overdue. She's moaning, circling her clit and leaning against the wall, grinding against her own hand. She's desperate, groaning out loud in frustration, feeling herself reach her peak. Her body trembles, shaking with every buck of her hips against her hand. She rolls her eyes back and feels the slick run down between her legs. Caitlyn moans loud, gasping for air. 

 

It's the fastest she's ever come. And the best sleep in years. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

 

The sunlight creeps in through the hotel room curtains, sharp and warm on her skin. Caitlyn blinks awake, her head heavy, body languid in the sheets. For a moment she doesn’t move, letting the quiet of the room steady her back to consciousness. When she looks at the clock, it reads 10:56am.

 

Caitlyn rubs her eyes, yawning softly. She sits up, and looks around her room. 

 

Then she notices it.

 

Her stolen suitcase sits perfectly besides the other one she bought yesterday with Mel.

 

Oh gods. 

 

Caitlyn pushes her sheets off her body and gets up in a hurry. The handle is cool under her fingers. When she pulls it open, the air leaves her chest.

 

It’s heavy. Heavier than she remembers. Too heavy to be hers. 

 

Inside, there’s nothing of hers. Her simple dresses, her travel coat, her hygiene products are all gone. In their place, she sees silk blouses in shades that make her double take on the size and shape, tailored skirts, cashmere scarves, a sleek raincoat cut to fit her frame. Shoes—three pairs, polished leather and heels that gleam under the light. Lotions, perfumes, soaps in glass bottles she doesn’t recognize but knows instantly are expensive. Everything smells faintly floral, faintly decadent.

 

In the middle of it all, sits a velvet box. And inside, there's a monkey-shaped perfume bottle labeled as 'JINX'. 

 

Her throat goes dry.

 

She touches one of the dresses—deep blue silk that would cling to her waist, her hips—and finds herself trembling.

 

Nestled between the folds is a note, scrawled in jagged, playful handwriting. 

 

Dress up for me, legs. 

 

Her heart slams so hard it hurts. Jinx had been here. In her room. Close enough to breathe the same air, to put her hands on every thread of her life. Caitlyn stares at the note until her vision blurs, shame and arousal twisting hot in her stomach.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn is done brushing her teeth and doing her skincare routine. She covers her neck with foundation, since it's full of hickeys that Jinx gave her. She's wearing only her underwear, looking at everything inside her suitcase to pick something. 

 

She's grabbing the suitcase from yesterday, and selecting some of the clothes that she bought. That's when she hears the door open, and Caitlyn admits she wishes it's Jinx. 

 

Caitlyn is only in her underwear, and Mel's gaze falls on her figure with keen intensity. "Good morning. Do you want me to give you some space to dress, or can I stay?" 

 

Caitlyn laughs, walking towards her and wrapping her arms around Mel. She leans in, giving her a kiss on her cheek. "Morning. You can stay and watch. But don't get used to it, Sevika will kill us."

 

Mel laughs closing the door behind her. "Oh, she doesn't mind if it's you. Trust me."

 

Caitlyn blushes bright red, and nods. "Noted. Uh... There's something you should see."

 

She walks up to the bed, and points at the suitcase. “It’s back,” Caitlyn blurts, before she can second-guess herself. “My suitcase. But these aren't my clothes. She… replaced everything. Jinx.”

 

Mel’s eyes narrow, sharp. She steps inside without waiting for an invitation, crossing to the bag. “Then we need to check it. Fingerprints, DNA, anything she might’ve left behind. What do you mean by Jinx?”

 

"It's what I'm going to call her from now on." Caitlyn moves quickly, looping her arms around Mel's waist before she can start. “But... Food first,” she says, voice quiet but firm. Her head rests against Mel’s shoulder, the warmth of her embrace grounding her, easing the spiral of panic.

 

Mel lets out a low laugh, tension breaking. “You really are impossible..." She murmurs, squeezing her back. “Fine. Brunch first."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Back in London, the air feels sharper, colder, less forgiving. Caitlyn sits across the lab table, arms folded tight against her chest as the technician runs another scan. The suitcase lies open on the counter, its contents carefully bagged and labeled, sterile plastic masking silk and perfume.

 

“Prints are all over it,” Kenny says. “And the DNA from the fabric samples is a definitive match. I’ll forward the file to you. It's like she doesn't care about being found out, this Jinx.”

 

Mel leans forward. “A match? Already?”

 

“She's in the Zaun Criminal Record.” Kenny confirms. “The assassin isn’t a ghost anymore.”

 

The name appears on the screen. Caitlyn opens her eyes in shock. In front of her, there's a girl looking quite troubled in her mugshot, with shorter hair and beautiful pair of blue eyes. 

 

But Caitlyn could swear Jinx's eyes are magenta... 

 

Powder Lanes.

 

Caitlyn inhales sharply. It feels strange, almost intimate, seeing it written out. Powder. Not just Jinx. Not just the mad chaos that stormed through her life. She was someone, once. A child, a girl with a last name, a traceable history.

 

Mel glances at Caitlyn, studying her reaction, but Caitlyn keeps her expression neutral, forcing herself to nod. “Send me everything you have. Print this out for me, will you?”

 

Kenny nods. 

 

Within the hour, the file is in her hands. A thin folder, paper clipped together, heavier than it should be. She holds it like it might burn her fingers.

 

The office makes their recommendation clear: Dispose of the suitcase.

 

But when Mel leaves to make a call, Caitlyn quietly takes the bag back, wheeling it behind her as if it were just another piece of luggage. She put it in the back of her car, and closes it before she regrets it. 

 

She tells herself it’s evidence. She tells herself she’ll need it later. She gets back home with it, and pretends it's just her luggage. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn closes the front door softly behind her, her suitcase wheels rolling across the polished floor of her Manor. The smell of fresh food drifts from the kitchen, and there’s Matías, leaning against the counter, sleeves rolled up, his brow creased with that mix of relaxation and worry he always has. 

 

“You’re back, hey!" He greets her walking up to her and giving her a hug. He smiles, and grabs her luggage to help her with them. He grunts at the weight of them both, frowning in confusion. "Ché, pero vos empacaste piedras." [Dude, but you packed rocks.]

 

Caitlyn laughs, shaking her head. "Thank you. How was your holiday?" 

 

Matias ignores the question, his eyes falling on Caitlyn's neck. "Te divertiste bastante." [You had a lot of fun.]

 

Caitlyn blushes bright. "Oh gods. Don't mention it."

 

"I hope Sevika doesn't get angry." Matias teases. "So you and Mel...?" 

 

Caitlyn gulps, both of them reaching their bedroom. She grabs the suitcases and puts them inside her closet, before coming out again. 

 

"I... Don't know what we are. I don't think it's that deep. I'm not in love or anything. And I don't think she's in love either." Caitlyn replies. 

 

Being ominous is the best thing to do. 

 

"And what about your work thing? Did you find the clue?" 

 

Caitlyn nods. "In a way, yes. The clue found us, if that makes sense."

 

Caitlyn hangs her coat neatly by the door, buying herself a pause. She feels the weight of his gaze pressing on her, sharp in its quiet concern. 

 

"¿Está bien todo?" [Is everything alright?] 

 

"Yes. Everything is alright." She nods. But Matias isn't convinced, judging by his face. 

 

“I don’t care about the details. I just need to know you’re safe.” Matias asks. "You know, if you want to, I can get you some extra guards for your safety."

 

Her throat tightens. There’s too much she cannot say—the blood, the shimmer eyes, the kisses that still linger on her skin, the striptease... 

 

How can she say she feels safe when she doesn't? But then, she also believes Jinx doesn't want to hurt her. 

 

“I’m fine,” she insists, more firmly now, lifting her chin. “Berlin was… Berlin. I don’t want to talk about it.”

 

Matías studies her, weighing whether to push. Then he nods. “Alright. But when you’re ready… I’ll listen. No judgment. You know that.”

 

Caitlyn swallows, guilt biting at her ribs. She nods once, brisk, then forces a polite smile. “I know. Thank you.”

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Caitlyn sits at her desk, the file spread open beneath the dim lamplight. The city outside her window hums faintly, but all she can hear is the sound of her own pulse. It's almost time to go, but Mel, Kenny and her are still reading everything they can on Powder Lanes. 

 

She turns the first page.

 

Name: Powder Lanes.

Age at conviction: 13

Charge: Homicide/Genital mutilation

 

Her breath catches. She reads on.

 

The report is clinical, detached—nothing like the chaos Jinx carries in her eyes. Powder was found in Zaun, brought in by enforcers after killing a man identified as Singed, an unlicensed mad scientist with a long history of illegal human experiments. Witness statements vary, some calling her hysterical, others incoherent. A doctor mentions Borderline Personality Disorder. Another mentions psychopathic behavior. They mention explosion nightmares and C-PTSD. 

 

The autopsy notes make Caitlyn’s stomach turn. The damage to Singed's body was nothing but terrifying. The pictures are going to give her nightmares. 

 

The file goes on—her sentencing, the prison intake photos. She stayed in Stillwater for seven years, until she was declared dead. 

 

Caitlyn traces the grainy image with her fingertip. A girl stares back at her, hair messy, jaw set, eyes already too old. Nothing like the wild, manic gleam of Jinx. But still her underneath it all. 

 

Caitlyn exhales, sinking back in her chair. The paper crinkles in her hand.

 

She should feel victorious, having a piece of the puzzle, a lead to follow. Instead, she feels the weight of it pressing into her chest. 

 

Powder Lanes... What did Singed do to you? 

 

Caitlyn looks at Mel across the desk, and she gives Caitlyn a smile. "You have that gleam in your eyes. What are you thinking about?" 

 

Caitlyn grabs the file, and sighs. "She must've had a family. That's all. Kenny, is there any way you can find that out?"

 

"Let's see if Powder has any living relatives." Kenny nods. "I can't promise you much. Zaun isn't exactly known for proper family ties or records." 

 

"Thank you." Caitlyn nods, and she turns to Mel. She runs a careful hand on her bruised nape, and whispers. "How's your neck feeling, darling?" 

 

Mel smiles, rubbing her neck through her dreadlocks. "It's better now. That Jinx girl hit me quite hard. You should've seen my mother's reaction to my injury, she seemed quite interested in knowing who did it."

 

Caitlyn squints her eyes, deep in thought. "Ambessa has always been protective of you, dove. I'm just glad you're safe." 

 

Mel shrugs her shoulders, smiling wide. "She seemed quite interested in me not working with you anymore. I wonder why. It feels... Odd."

 

Caitlyn nods, getting up from her chair and walking behind Mel's. She grabs the ointment from Mel's desk, and waves it in front of her. "Let me help you out. If you want to stop working with me, you can. I'm not going to hold it against you."

 

Mel turns on her chair and faces Caitlyn, golden eyes fixed on blue. She moves her hair to the side, and nods. "Be my guest. And... Well, I'm thinking about it. I'll let you know."

 

Caitlyn pulls her close, and begins to apply the medicine on her neck. 

 

"Caitlyn. Mel. I found something." Kenny tells them, turning around on his chair. He gives them a weird look, finding their position a bit odd. Caitlyn is sitting behind her, massaging her neck, while Mel is arched up. "Sorry, am I interrupting something?" 

 

Caitlyn rolls her eyes and Mel laughs. 

 

"No." Caitlyn says. 

 

"Yes." Mel says at the same time. 

 

Caitlyn gives Mel a look, and Kenny just giggles. 

 

"What did you find?" Mel asks, changing the subject. 

 

"Alright. Powder had a family. She was an orphan at four years old, with her sister Violet. Their parents were fighting against the Piltover officers in a protest that went violent. Many innocent Zaunite people died due to police brutality. Powder and Violet were then adopted by Vander Lanes, and lived in a bar with two other kids, also orphaned. They're all dead now."

 

"I'm sorry. Everyone is dead?" Caitlyn asks, bewildered. "What happened?" 

 

"Vander disappeared and is still missing, to this day. The Piltover police claims the kids used to steal for food and money after he was gone. None of them were jailed because they were very good at avoiding the cops. They took care of the bar and robbed people as a side hustle. They robbed a hextech factory and the stones caused some sort of explosion that killed the four siblings inside the bar. They were all marked as deseased. Violet Lanes, dead at 20 years old. Claggor Lanes, dead at nineteen years old. Mylo Lanes, dead at fifteen years old. Powder Lanes, dead at thirteen years old."

 

Kenny gives them both a grim look, and continues to read the report. "They retrieved all of their bodies, limbs and torsos severed by the explosion. The only one that they couldn't retrieve was Powder's. The police assumed she was close enough to the explosion that her body was destroyed to bits and pieces. They announced her as dead at thirteen."

 

Mel frowns on her chair, humming in thought while Caitlyn massages her neck. "How did she end up alive and well? I remember her. She's whole, not part robot or anything. She has all of her limbs too. Are we to assume Singed got his hands on her?" 

 

Caitlyn hums in acknowledgement. "He was a mad scientist linked with human experiments and complete disregard for his victims. Maybe he did something to Powder. To Jinx."

 

Kenny and Mel share a grim look. 

 

Because whatever Singed did to her, it wasn't good. 

 

"Kenny. Can you please find anything you can from this mad scientist?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

"On it, boss."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Silco enter Jinx's apartment in Paris. The stereo is playing a birthday song, the place is decorated with balloons and there's a birthday cake on the table. Silco walks up to it, looking around and calling out. 

 

"Jinx?"

 

He doesn't see her around, but he walks up to the cake. Above the balloons, there's a "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" sign and a few snacks. Silco reaches out to the cake, and licks some of the icing. 

 

That's when Jinx jumps behind him, and tackles him with a loud cheer. 

 

"Woooooo!" Jinx yells. 

 

Silco falls on the couch, and shoves her odd of him. "Jinx! What are you doing?" 

 

"Happy birthday Silco!" Jinx grins, putting a birthday hat on him like the one she's wearing. 

 

"It's not my birthday." Silco denies, dusting off his jacket. 

 

Jinx rolls her eyes. "Well, I don't know your real birthday so I'm just guessing!" 

 

"Turn the music off." Silco says turning the stereo off. He sighs in annoyance. 

 

"I was just trying to do something nice for your birthday." Jinx exclaims. "You're so fucking boring."

 

"It's not my birthday."

 

"-So, tell me when it is!" 

 

"We need to talk." Silco deadpans. 

 

"Fine." Jinx sighs, sitting on the couch. She reaches out to grab a gift, and hands it to him. "Okay. Talk then." 

 

"You know you fucked up and that's why you're trying to buy me. Don't deny it." Silco replies, grabbing the box. He opens it, and finds a pair of headphones inside. 

 

Jinx squints in confusion. "What?"

 

Silcos rolls his eyes. "Do you have any idea how much trouble you got into because you beat up Mel Medarda? Do you have any idea who her mother is?" 

 

Jinx frowns. "I didn't beat her up. I just knocked her out by hitting her neck."

 

"Do you really think her mother gives a shit about the difference?" Silco glares at her. 

 

"She was following me! I was trying to follow Caitlyn and goldie eyes began following me instead. So I knocked her out. What did you want me to do instead?" 

 

"Do you have any idea how much I had to beg for you to not be cut off from this?!" Silco yells. "This is not something you can do, ever again! You heard me?" 

 

Jinx crosses her arms and looks at him, frowning. "So what would you have me do then? Have her follow me back here?" 

 

"She's off limits, Jinx. You got in trouble because of it." Silco sighs. "You're lucky to even be breathing right now." 

 

"Look. How was I supposed to know that?" Jinx exclaims in frustration. "You never tell me anything about the Black Rose!"

 

Silco sighs. "Where did you get that information?" 

 

Jinx shrugs her shoulders absentmindedly. "You know I'm resourceful."

 

"You have now lost the privilege of working alone. Next kill, you need to work with Lyra. Understand?" 

 

Jinx rolls her eyes. "Fine. Whatever. Open this gift."

 

Silco rolls his eyes in annoyance, and grabs the box next to him. He sees inside, a pair of leather shoes, his size. 

 

"These are very fancy, thank you."

 

Jinx hands him another box. When he opens it, he sees a plushie inside it. He laughs, soft, and grabs it. It's a monkey plushie that makes monkey noises when you squeeze it.

 

"Ha. Adorable." Silco says, poking it. 

 

"That one's for Irina." Jinx says, voice cold. "For your daughter." 

 

The room is silent.

 

Because Jinx isn't supposed to know of his family. She isn't supposed to know the kids name, or even her existence. It's a flex. 

 

Silco hols the plushie in his hands, throat dry and heart thumping hard against his chest. He looks at Jinx, alarmed at her words and utterly terrified. 

 

He gulps. 

 

"Did you think I don't know anything about them?" Jinx smirks. 

 

Silco feels a heavy pressure in the air. He gulps on his spot, legs shaking. It's a threat. A show of power and a flex of knowledge. But most importantly, it's a threat. 

 

He nods, walking out of the apartment without saying a word. Jinx sits back on her couch, smug and leaning back against it. She's got him. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Caitlyn stands in front of the mirror, towel still damp against her skin, hair clinging in dark strands around her face. Her reflection stares back at her—too pale, too wide-eyed. Her gaze lowers, almost against her will, to the faint marks blooming across her neck. Hickeys. Bruises painted into her flesh like signatures. Jinx’s signatures.

 

She swallows hard, fingertips hovering just above the discolored skin. Heat floods her chest. It should disgust her. It does disgust her. Every logical part of her recoils—she’s a detective investigating a murderer. She can't be yearning for her touch like this. She should be building a case file, not… standing here, trembling at the memory of a criminal’s mouth on her throat.

 

Her fingers finally press down on one of the marks, and her knees nearly buckle at the flash of memory it brings—the way Jinx pinned her, the sharp edge of her laugh, the smell of smoke and metal clinging to her hair.

 

"I'm pathetic.” Caitlyn whispers to her reflection. Her voice sounds foreign, frayed at the edges. 

 

Because she wants it again. Because she can’t stop wanting. And that want feels like treason, like corruption in her very veins.

 

Why didn’t Jinx kiss her? The question haunts her, twisting deep inside like a bullet wound. She kissed her neck, her skin, but stopped short of her mouth. Was it cruelty? Was it restraint? Did Jinx think Caitlyn didn't deserve it—or worse, did she not want her enough?

 

Did Jinx not find her attractive enough? 

 

Caitlyn looks at her own lips, slightly parted, flushed, waiting. She imagines Jinx’s mouth crashing against hers, how it would feel, how it would taste like. She imagines the tongue, the burn, the surrender. And for a second, Caitlyn leans closer to the mirror, as if she could pull Jinx out of her thoughts and into her reality.

 

Caitlyn had the chance to say no. To get up and reject Jinx's advances. And yet she just sat there, and put Jinx's tits over her tits. Wanting to be groped and manhandled by a murderer. That's who Caitlyn's become. 

 

"I'm a whore."

 

Mother would be proud. 

 

Then she jerks back, nails digging into her palms until it hurts. “No.” she hisses. “No.”

 

But her pulse betrays her, hammering faster, harder. Her body betrays her too, because the mere thought of Jinx has her dripping between her legs. And deep down, beneath the shame, Caitlyn knows she would let Jinx ruin her all over again.

 

Caitlyn closes the door to her bathroom, and walks back into her room. She's tired of her journey and she wants to have a solid sleep today. There, on her vanity, she sees something unusual. It's disguised as a makeup kit, but she doesn't remember buying something like that. It's a box, no larger than her palm, painted in magenta and blue streaks. 

 

Her breath catches in her throat. 

 

Slowly, carefully, she picks it up. The metal is warm from the light, the key already wound tight. When she flips the lid open, music drifts out—delicate, romantic, almost haunting in its sweetness. Inside, a tiny figurine turns in slow circles. It's a tiny Caitlyn forged from wire and scrap metal, holding a rifle in miniature.

 

Her stomach twists. Jinx has been here. In this room. Close enough to touch her sheets, her pillow. The box is still warm, so it's... Recent. 

 

The song continues, lilting and insistent. Caitlyn frowns, recognizing the words carried in the melody even without lyrics. It's a song she remembers, and she knows the lyrics by memory now. She sings it all the time. 

 

Eres mía by Romeo Santos plays in the music box. The bachata echoes through the bedroom. 

 

Her pulse skips, uneven. She doesn’t need to search for the lyrics translation, she already knows what Jinx means. It’s not a gift. It’s a claim.

 

Caitlyn sits on the edge of her bed, the music box balanced in her hands, the tiny version of herself spinning endlessly under the glow of her lamp. She should feel violated. She should feel afraid.

 

Instead, she feels heat blooming low in her chest, shame mixing with a dangerous thrill. Jinx had been here. Jinx had thought of her, built this for her, chosen this song.

 

And Caitlyn can’t bring herself to close the lid.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆  

 

 

The streets of Bletcham are empty at this hour. The street is empty, most people are sleeping, and Jinx can't understand why they are parked inside a van. It's the least subtle way to kill. She slides back into her seat, and sighs, annoyed. 

 

She's sitting next to Lyra, and holds a weapon under her shirt, hidden. 

 

"You couldn't even book a fucking hotel?" She asks. "Why are we sleeping in a fucking minivan?" 

 

Lyra sighs. "Stop whining. You know we can't be sleeping in a five star hotel for every kill."

 

Jinx scoffs, hitting the back of Lyra's head. "I do it all the time. You're just cheap. We didn't need to be in here for this."

 

"What happened to you, Jinx? Bitch, you used to be fun to work with!" Lyra pouts, rubbing her head. 

 

"I listen after I get scolded. That's what. You're still as messy as ever." Jinx shakes her head. "Anyway. Who are we killing?" 

 

Lyra hands Powder her phone, and the man's picture shows up. 

 

'Marcus Pike.'

 

Jimx smirks to herself. She recognizes his stupid face, and the way he cries. This kill is sure to upset Caitlyn.

 

"Why are you opening those files in your phone? You know it can be tracked." Jinx scolds.

 

"You still go old school with the postcard?" Lyra giggles. "What are we, boomers?" 

 

Jinx wonders how soon is too soon to shoot her and get the job done herself. 

 

Too bad she wasn't working alone.

 

“Finally a sweet gig, though.” Lyra grins, looking at his pictures. “Guy’s a cop, yeah? I say we storm in. And boom!”

 

Jinx rolls her eyes. “No boom for this one, asshole. We're in a neighborhood. We need to be subtle. This cop is hiding already. He's waiting for us."

 

Lyra laughs at her, chewing gum like a cow. “Like I said. You're boring."

 

Jinx groans, dragging a hand down her face. Why was she babysitting an idiot? Who paired her up with this clown? She breathes too loud for someone pretending to be an assassin.

 

"Chill. You're so stressed out." Lyra scoffs. "I’ve done jobs before.”

 

“Oh really? Then act like it.”

 

She actually looks proud, eyes glimmering as she remembers something. “Mayor’s dog, once.”

 

"Wow. You killed a chihuahua. I'm pissing myself in fear over here." Jinx mocks, loud. Lyra isn't amused. Jinx takes out her gun, pointing at Lyra's jaw. “Listen, dog-killer. You so much as sneeze wrong, and I’ll put a bullet in you before Marcus ever sees us. Got it?”

 

For a second, silence. Then Lyra smirks like it was a joke. “You’re kinda cute when you’re mad.”

 

Jinx rolls her eyes, muttering. “I swear, Silco, you're paying for this.”

 

"And why are you so late anyway? You should've been here like six hours ago." Lyra asks. 

 

Jimx shrugs. "I had to take care of something."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆  

 

 

It's three in the morning, but Caitlyn doesn’t notice it. She doesn't check her phone, and her only company is the tea mugs that she's been refilling all night, and the board. It stares at her like she's an idiot who can't understand why Jinx's killing, let alone what they did to her. She can't be closing her eyes because then Jinx is there, laughing, kissing, groping her and grinding against her. And Caitlyn can't spend all day with her hands between her legs. 

 

So instead she stands in her office, drowning in the silence, staring at the board she’s built out of scraps and clues. It's not any better, but at least she's not fantasizing about the murderer she's yearning for. 

 

Caitlyn sees her everywhere, over and over again, the same wild handwriting, jagged and rushed—JINX.

 

Caitlyn’s eyes ache as she follows the threads, trying to make sense of it. Jinx and Singed. Supplier and creation. Chemist and chaos. There must be a pattern, a logic, something that explains how they fit together. But the more she studies, the more the lines seem to dissolve into nonsense. A riddle that mocks her.

 

Her hand grips the edge of the desk. “Why… why can’t I see it? What did Singed do?”

 

The photographs blur. All she remembers is magenta eyes looking at her. 

 

She leans closer, almost kissing the new sketch of Jinx's face. It shows her blue hair and magenta eyes, as well as the gorgeous nose. 

 

“What are you up to?” she whispers, as if Jinx could answer. “Do you want me? Are you playing with me?”

 

Her eyes shift to another corner of the board, where Singed’s face lurks in shadow. Cold. Calculating. He’s the key, she tells herself. If she could understand him, she could understand Jinx. But no matter how she arranges the pieces, they slip away from her. Every theory collapses.

 

Her body sways with exhaustion. Her chest feels tight. For a wild second, Caitlyn thinks she hears Jinx’s voice behind her, taunting, lilting. 

 

Come on, legs, you’re smarter than this.

 

Her hands tremble as she sits on her desk again. She leans in, forehead lowering until she's hovering over it. . “I don’t know what you want.” she whispers. voice cracking. “I don’t know why you're doing this.”

 

And the worst part—the part that burns—isn’t that Jinx has outsmarted her so far. No, she doesn't care. She knows she's going to find her, one way or another. 

 

But Caitlyn doesn’t even want to catch Jinx anymore. Not really. She just wants to touch her again.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn jolts awake at the sound of someone clearing their throat. Her body is stiff, cramped from having fallen asleep in the chair. For a second, panic claws at her chest. Is it... 

 

Jinx?

 

Caitlyn looks up, eyes still blurry, but it’s only Kenny standing in the doorway, arms crossed, his face caught between concern and exasperation.

 

“You look like hell, boss.”

 

Her hand flies to her neck instinctively, covering the fading bruises before she realizes how suspicious the gesture is. He gives her a curious look. 

 

"Are those hickeys?" He teases. 

 

She sits up straighter, wincing as her muscles protest. The desk in front of her is littered with files and empty tea mugs, her head aching like a bitch. 

 

“Kenny.” Caitlyn says, voice hoarse. “Oh gods. what time is it?”

 

“Too late for you to still be here. Or too early?” He steps inside, eyes scanning the mess, then landing back on her. “Are those the same clothes you had on yesterday?”

 

Heat crawls up her face. She forces herself to nod.

 

“Caitlyn…” Kenny’s voice softens, the gruffness falling away. He leans against the desk, close enough that she can’t avoid his gaze. “You can’t be doing this to yourself. We need you clearheaded. Without you, there’s no one who can piece everything together.”

 

Her stomach twists at the truth of it. 

 

No one sees Jinx like I do. 

 

Kenny sighs, pushing himself upright. “Go home. Get a proper night’s sleep. Please. We’ll get nowhere if you burn yourself out.”

 

For a moment, Caitlyn wants to argue, wants to insist she’s close, that if she just stares at the board a little longer, something will finally click. But her body betrays her, she can barely keep her eyes open, and the exhaustion weighs heavier than her desire for knowledge. 

 

She nods. “You’re right, Kenny.”

 

Kenny gives her a small smile, relieved, and pats her shoulder once before heading toward the door. “You should call your driver. You're in no condition to drive.”

 

Caitlyn lingers, staring at the messy papers and strings one last time. Then, with a heavy breath, she gathers her coat and steps into the sunrise air, leaving the ghost of Jinx behind in the office. 

 

For now.

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn enters the office after a good sleep. It's been a long day now, but she struts inside regardless. She's wearing a suit from her new wardrobe, black and built for her figure. She's wearing a navy blue button up shirt underneath, with the last three buttons undone. A beautiful white scarf adorns her neck, and she carries a white purse to match. She's wearing a pair of high heel black boots, and her hair is up in a messy ponytail. 

 

When she closes the door, she feels Mel's eyes on her, like a hawk. She looks back at her, smiling innocently. 

 

"Good afternoon."

 

Mel looks very interested in her, and Caitlyn can't help but blush under her scrutinizing gaze. It's intoxicating, and Kenny is right there next to them. 

 

"Good afternoon, darling." Mel greets, sipping on a glass of wine. "Dressed to kill, I see."

 

"Did you sleep a bit?" Kenny asks, turning towards her. 

 

"Kenny here kindly told me that you spent the night here." Mel smiles at her, and gets up from her seat. She walks up to Caitlyn, and looks into her eyes with a bit of worry. "Did you rest well?" 

 

Caitlyn hugs Mel, wrapping her arms around her waist, pulling her closer. "Yes, I did. Thank you. Did you?" 

 

"I slept well, after a long night. Sevika was restless. I have a slight suspicion that she's like this after I told her about our trip."

 

Caitlyn laughs, nervous and flustered. "You said it was fine with her if we kissed. We didn't do anything beyond that. Are you telling me that she hates me now?" 

 

Mel laughs, pressing a playful peck on Caitlyn's lips. "Do shut up, darling. Sevika is just competitive. She adores you."

 

Caitlyn feels Mel hug her neck, and Kenny clears his throat, interrupting them. 

 

"Sorry, guys. I'd love to keep watching the soap opera you guys have going on, but I have important information."

 

Caitlyn and Mel share a look, and separate, walking back to their desks. Kenny gets up from his seat, and hands them the files. 

 

"This Singed is the inventor of shimmer. He claimed it'd be a helpful way to heal people, a new revolutionary medication, but it turned people aggressive and it had terrible impact on its users. Upon his death, his lackies have kept the business going from Zaun to the rest of the world. This man had his laboratory full of human and animal body parts that he was experimenting with, including children and other mutations."

 

Caitlyn frowns, crossing her arms. 

 

"I remember wondering if this Jinx girl had been using shimmer. Her eyes were so magenta that it could have been a high dose.". Mel admits. 

 

"Shimmer..." Caitlyn sighs, reading his file. "Symptoms include increased reflexes, strength, and pain suppression. It affects the user's mind, causing violent and erratic behavior. Long term issues include psychosis, mania and others."

 

"I could  be wrong, but I have a feeling that this just the tip of the iceberg." Kenny mutters. 

 

Caitlyn looks at the paper with curiosity, and hums to herself. "Seven hells."

 

"On another note. I went through the files that Jin Yeong, the Chinese agent, gave you. The documents he gave you in Berlin included statements from accounts in the Cayman Islands. Jin thinks they, whoever they are, used these accounts to pay off the insiders betraying his department."

 

"Okay." 

 

"But then I'm poking around on these transactions, and I notice this account number. British. Receiving three payments a year for the exact same amount. Follow the money, and we find it lands here. St. Henry's, a prep school in Sussex. School fees. That's as much information as I have." Kenny confesses. 

 

A lightbulb lights up above Caitlyn's head. 

 

"Thank you, Kenny." 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Caitlyn enters a butcher shop, and her eyes fall on Grayson. The spot is empty except for them, with the chilling air seeping through her suit. The smell of raw meat and cured sausages fills her nostrils, and she looks at her boss, worry in her eyes. 

 

"Take a minute. Look at the food, act normal." Grayson instructs. They stand a bit distant from each other, and look at the meat without much to do. "Don't open your mouth much, it'd be easy to read your lips."

 

"Okay." Caitlyn whispers. 

 

"Look at the sausages." 

 

"Lovely sausages." Caitlyn admits. She begins to speak, quiet enough to not be overheard. "We had a work party last year, back when I was working at MI5. There was a lot of drinking. Marcus got incredibly drunk, and began talking to me about his wife and daughter."

 

"Charming." Grayson replies. "These are my favorites. They are stuffed with cheddar and jalapeños."

 

"I prefer the ones with garlic and Sichuan pepper." Caitlyn admits. "Marcus spoke about his financial worries. He needed to pay for her health treatments, she was alive then. This is prior to her death. He expressed his fear of not making due with his school payments and hospital bills at the same time."

 

"And what about it?" 

 

Caitlyn sighs, eyes fixed on the pork chops in front of her. "Kenny traced the lead Jin gave us to payments made to a school called St. Henry's. His daughter goes there." 

 

"It is disappointing when the mole is the one who looks most like a rodent. Where is he now?" 

 

"Kenny's on it."

 

Grayson nods. "In the grand scheme of things, Marcus is middle management. There's a good chance he'll lead us to someone far more important in whatever this is. Thank you, officer Kiramman. You've done well in only disclosing this information with me. Don't tell Kenny or Mel Medarda."

 

Caitlyn smiles and nods. "Talk to you soon."

 

Grayson grabs her bag full of meat, and turns towards the door. "Stay nourished, officer. Get some chops and steaks. I'll be in touch." 

 

Grayson walks out of the shop, and Caitlyn orders some pork chops. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

They hide inside the ban across the street, their bodies sore from the shitty sleep. The day has finally come, and Marcus still hides inside the house like the idiot he is. 

 

Jinx lounges in the passenger seat, boots on the dash, a pistol rolling lazily in her hand. Her braid slides over her shoulder as she leans back, eyes locked on the house like a cat staring down a mousehole. Her leg jitters with restless energy.

 

Lyra flips through a small notebook, whispering her “plan” like it’s divine revelation.

 

“We plant a bomb-”

 

“No.” Jinx cuts in without even glancing at her.

 

Lyra blinks. “Why not? You love bombs.”

 

“Because he’s not some idiot, he’s a cop.” Jinx says, voice sharp, irritated. “You think he doesn’t have a security system or a bunch of guns?”

 

Lyra frowns and flips the page. “Fine. Then the front. We pose as delivery—”

 

Jinx barks out a laugh. “Delivery? Really? You want to knock on his door with a pizza box? What are we, dumb?” Jinx cuts her off, spinning the pistol around her finger like a toy. “That's too obvious. You keep thinking like you're in a movie or something. We need to hack his security system."

 

Lyra scowls, defensive. "I'm in charge. So do as I say and let's kill this idiot the way I say."

 

Jinx rolls her eyes. "Whatever, bitch."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn enters the office again, and Mel has already left. It's a bit late now,with the sun setting behind her.  She looks at Kenny, who sits on his desk, and clears her throat. 

 

"Hey Kenny. Have you found Marcus's location yet?" 

 

Kenny turns to her, and points at his computer screen. "Yes. He's currently Bletcham. I also have his contacts and call records. We know who he's calling, when, and for how long." 

 

Caitlyn grabs her phone, and types out the address Kenny has on display. She places it back into her suit jacket, and pats his shoulder. 

 

"Can you help me with his calls? Let me know what he's up to?"

 

"Yes, of course." Kenny nods. 

 

Caitlyn smiles at him. "Alright. Thank you so much. Call me as soon as possible. I'm going there."

 

Kenny opens his eyes wide. "You're going there? Alone?" 

 

Caitlyn nods. "Don't worry about it. I'll do some surveillance, it's quite an easy task. Call me later."

 

Caitlyn leaves the office, and Kenny sits there, worried. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Jinx and Lyra approach the door, hiding their guns in their pants. Lyra knocks on the door, and Jinx rolls her eyes. 

 

When the door opens, she looks up at a woman. She's older, quite well dressed and with her hair up neatly. She looks at them both with a frown, confused.

 

"Good afternoon." Jinx greets, charming as usual. "Sorry to ambush you like this. Is Marcus here?" 

 

The lady shakes her head. "No, he's gone out, I'm afraid." 

 

"Oh." Jinx nods, giving Lyra a look. She turns back to the woman. 

 

"I'm his mother." She says, giving them a hypocrite smile. "Who are you?" 

 

"My name's Natalie." Jinx replies. "This is Fanny. We work with Marcus. A few of us are in the area. He gave us this address. I'm sorry. I thought this was his house." 

 

"We just wanted to drop in and say hi."

 

"Of course." The woman nods. "I have some fruitcake in the freezer." 

 

"Oh, lovely." Jinx replies.

 

Jinx and Lyra enter the house. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Jinx sits on the living room couch, eating some cake and humming in delight. "I've never had it hot before!" 

 

Lyra makes a face. 

 

"It microwaves very well." The older woman replies. "Marcus loves it like that."

 

"Any idea when he'll be back?" Lyra asks. 

 

"I'll just give him a call." The older lady says. She gets up from the couch, and walks up to the phone. 

 

"No. No. We can wait." Jinx calls out. "We don't want to pressure him." 

 

"No, that's fine! He's probably just getting cheese or something." The lady says. She puts the phone against her ear, and waits. 

 

Jinx frowns, giving Lyra a look. Lyra starts drawing her gun out, but Jinx stops her. She looks around then, and notices Marcus's car parked outside the house. 

 

Jinx scoffs. 

 

"Yes. Darling, you have lovely visitors. A Natalie and a Fanny." The older lady says. "From the office. Yes. Oh, dear. That's a shame. Shall I tell them to come back another time? All right. I'll see you when I see you. Love you. Bye!" 

 

The older woman looks at them, feigning sadness. "Oh, dear. He's been called back to London. Something unexpected has come up. But he sends his best wishes and apologies." She apologizes, picking up the tea mugs and leftover fruitcake. 

 

"Mm. He must have been in a hurry." Jinx laughs. 

 

"Yes." The older woman laughs along. 

 

"To forget his car." 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Jinx and Lyra go back to the minivan, and Jinx scoffs in annoyance. 

 

"You see why we don't knock on the door first, dipshit?" 

 

Lyra rolls her eyes. "Oh please. As if your idea was better."

 

Jinx sighs in annoyance. "Yes! It was!" 

 

"Let's just wait for him to go out or arrive or whatever. Jeez." Lyra mutters. 

 

Jinx leans back on her seat, gun in hand. She debates on when is the best time to shoot her. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Caitlyn drives her car, eyes focused on the road. She's in town, almost at the address Kenny gave her. 

 

She gets a call, and picks up the phone.

 

"Kenny? What did you find?" 

 

"I'm not sure. The house that Marcus is in just made a call. But it was a call for the same number that it's calling from? I overheard a lady and a man speaking. She mentioned him getting visits from work. She mentioned someone called Nataly and Fanny? But he told her to tell them that he's gone back to Britain. It sounds like the lady was warning him, and he's hiding."

 

Caitlyn frowns to herself. There's no Natalie in MI5. 

 

"Thank you Kenny. I'll need you to help me with his location. Keep me posted if he leaves the house. I'm almost there."

 

Caitlyn sighs to herself, and looks at her front seat for a second. 

 

She's thankful for always having a gun in her car. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Jinx hears an engine in the distance, and opens her eyes wide. Her eyes fall on Marcus's car, and she sees him in the distance. 

 

"Wake up!" Jinx calls, turning on the engine of the minivan.

 

Marcus drives away in a frenzy, speeding up. His driving is messy, unstable and Jinx bets he's shitting himself. She begins driving after him, speeding up even faster than he is.

 

Lyra loads her rifle next to her, and opens the mini van's sky window. She stands up, accidentally hitting Jinx as she does. And then, she fires. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Caitlyn picks up the phone, and Kenny speaks in a hurry. 

 

"Marcus is moving south, he's driving really fast. Something happened." 

 

Caitlyn sighs to herself, eyes flickering with doubt. 

 

Is this... 

 

No. It can't be. 

 

"Hurry up. Or you'll miss him. I sent you the tracking info. It should be visible on your GPS."

 

Caitlyn's GPS flickers. The screen reboots, until it shows Marcus's car location near her. She's not that far away. 

 

"I'm on it. Thank you."

 

"Oh. And Caitlyn? The house in Bletcham that called Marcus? It's already on our system. Belongs to a woman called Veronica Hill. She's suspected Russian intelligence. He is up to his neck in this stuff."

 

"Fuck."

 

Caitlyn grabs the gun from the copilot seat, and puts it inside her jacket. She sighs to herself.

 

Are you running away from those visitors? 

 

Caitlyn grabs her phone, quickly dialing Marcus. 

 

The call goes through. 

 

"Kiramman!" He tells, voice broken. "They're after me! They're going to kill me! Help me out please!" 

 

"Calm down! Who's after you? I'm near you right now!" 

 

"They're shooting at me!" Marcus cries, his voice high pitched and broken. "Ahhhh!!" 

 

Over the phone, Caitlyn hears glas shattering and his screams. Then, the call gets cut off. 

 

"Marcus!" Caitlyn yells. "Shit!" 

 

She continues driving, speeding up towards where the GPS is marking. But her heart is about to burst out from her chest. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Jinx stops after Marcus, parking behind him. He seems to have stopped suddenly, but he doesn't come out of his car. 

 

Jinx and Lyra get out of the car, and stare at each other. They're in the middle of nowhere. Lyra smirks, and fires her rifles, emptying it's bullets. She shoot his car, tires, windows, everywhere. 

 

When it's done, Jinx turns to her, glaring at Lyra. "That was subtle to you?!"

 

Lyra pushes Jinx, hitting her face with the back of her rifle. "Shut up!" 

 

Jinx grunts in pain, but she points her gun at Lyra, shooting. The bullet goes through her chest, and she's fast enough that Lyra doesn't have time to even react to it. She drops on the floor due to the impact. For good measure, Jinx shoots her again, and then a second time, all in the stomach. 

 

She's about to shoot her some more, but she hears a faint cry in the distance. 

 

Of course he didn't die.

 

Jinx turns to the left, and sees Marcus running away, wounded. 

 

"Fucking cockroach!" 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆ 

 

 

Caitlyn finally gets a call through.

 

"Marcus? Are you okay?" 

 

Frank hyperventilates over the phone, crying. "She shot me!"

 

Caitlyn looks around, exasperated. His car stopped moving, but it's close enough that she should be able to see him. 

 

"Where are you?" 

 

"Ahhh!!" Marcus screams, as a shot echoes through the phone. "Kiramman! She's chasing after me! I'm running through some farm field!" 

 

Caitlyn looks around, and spots Marcus in the distance. "Go north, I'm parked nearby!" 

 

"What?! Where is north?!" Marcus screams, panting. 

 

"Fuck!" Caitlyn groans. "Marcus, can you see a phone mast?" 

 

"Yes!" 

 

"Get here!" 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn spots Marcus in the distance. He's running, desperate and bleeding out. He's crying out loud, and all Caitlyn can do is start the car. She grabs her gun, and aims at his direction. Her eyes are searching for blue hair and blue clouds, but all she sees is grass. 

 

Marcus crosses a fence as weakly as he can, and Caitlyn is alert, looking around. He falls over then, too weak. He faints, dropping on the floor. The blood loss must be massive. 

 

That's when she hears a laughter, a voice she recognizes immediately. Caitlyn aims towards the tree, and shoots. 

 

She's panting, and that's when she sees her. 

 

Jinx. 

 

She's sitting on top of a branch, crouching down, barely escaping the shot. She tries to shoot again, but Jinx moves at such a speed that her eyes are barely aware of it. 

 

"Hello, gorgeous."Jinx greets. She jumps in front of Caitlyn, doing a superhero landing. Then, she raises her gun at her, smirking. "You dressed up for me? Like I asked you to?" 

 

Caitlyn aims her gun at Jinx, mimicking her. Looking at her under the sunlight, Jinx is even more beautiful. Caitlyn gulps on her spot, her body weak on the knees. 

 

"You're not going to kill Marcus." She exclaims, voice decisive. 

 

Jinx smirks, shrugging. "Eh. If not today, then another day works."

 

Caitlyn gulps, her hands shaking. She can't stop looking at Jinx, but she doesn't dare shoot. 

 

What kind of person can evade a bullet? 

 

Jinx's eyes travel over Caitlyn's body. She's checking her out, openly. And in her eyes, there's lust. 

 

"If you put the gun down, I'll put mine down too." Jinx speaks, her voice hoarse. 

 

Caitlyn aims, pulse steady. "I'm not falling for any of your tricks."

 

Jinx puts the gun down, then. She shoves it in the holster around her hips, and raises her hands. Her eyes meet Caitlyn's, missing their previous mischief. 

 

"I just want to touch you." Jinx confesses. There's an edge to her voice, and Caitlyn gulps on her spot. Memories flash in her mind of what happened in the stripclub and suddenly Marcus isn't that important anymore. 

 

Caitlyn lowers her gun, but she moves fast. She lunges towards Jinx, and pushes her against the tree trunk next to them. She uses her body to trap Jinx's, arms wrapped around her petite waist. To her ear, Jinx moans. 

 

Although, is she really trapping her, when Jinx can move fast enough to evade a bullet? 

 

Caitlyn feels Jinx's legs wrap around her hips. She grabs her by the neck, and squeezes just enough. She's just applying pressure, and making sure she's within her grasp. That Jinx can't escape from her now. 

 

Caitlyn gives herself the freedom to gaze. 

 

Jinx pants beneath her, eyes dilated. She has a bruise on her face, and her blue hair moves free with the wind. Caitlyn notices how short she is, how petite, how her lips are calling for her to press a kiss against them and never stop. She notices Jinx's little moans as she pretends to be struggling under Caitlyn's grasp. Jinx is wearing a short black dress, gorgeous stockings and a pair of high boots to match the look. Her makeup is beautiful, enough to awaken a desire within Caitlyn to just ruin it. 

 

Instead, Caitlyn leans in, and whispers into her ear as she pretends to choke her. 

 

"Why didn't you kiss me? Back at the stripclub. Why didn't you kiss me?" 

 

Her tone comes out like a complaint, and way more vulnerable than she wanted it to sound. She meets magenta eyes, that stare at her with the same kind of need. 

 

"I have shimmer coursing through my veins instead of blood." Jinx confesses, her voice small. "If I kiss you... You're going to be addicted. And I don't want you to want me just for the shimmer."

 

Caitlyn bites her lip, eyes meeting Jinx's in a silent plea. She rubs Jinx's lips with her thumb, looking at her lips with intensity. "Is that what singed did to you?" 

 

"You've done your homework." Jinx points out, smiling. "But if you call me Powder, I'll get violent. So choose your words carefully."

 

Caitlyn doesn't mind her threats. She bucks her hips against Jinx's, pushing up against the tree trunk behind them. She feels Jinx's panties dripping wetness between her legs, smearing slick all over Caitlyn's suit. Caitlyn grabs Jinx's waist with her free hand, and begins a slow grind. 

 

"What am I doing?" Caitlyn whispers, lips licking all over Jinx's neck. "Fuck. What am I doing?" 

 

Jinx wears a devilish smile, and she moans with every buck of Caitlyn's hips. She wraps her arms around Caitlyn's neck, and pulls her in closer. 

 

"Shhh." Jinx whispers. "Stop thinking about it."

 

Caitlyn grabs Jinx's hands, and pins them above her with an iron grip. At this, Jinx groans, her eyes full of excitement. 

 

"Eres mía." Jinx whispers into her ear. "Eres mía." [You're mine.]

 

Caitlyn closes her eyes for a second, and lets herself enjoy it. Jinx's lips are on her neck, and she's about to let out a moan of her own, when suddenly... 

 

Caitlyn feels Jinx pushing her off. And in a millisecond, Jinx runs off, leaving Caitlyn there, panting and confused. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

Chapter 5: STELLAR JAY

Notes:

Omg hiii everyone!

Virtual hugs for y'all

I hope you can enjoy this chapter ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

Good evening 💋💋💋💋

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

CHAPTER V

STELLAR JAY

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn gazes upon Marcus, eyes focused. Her breathing is uneven, broken to bits and ragged. He lays on the hospital bed, body weak and too pale to even be alive. He made it to the safe house after she took him, and after several blood transfusions, he's asleep. He had three bullets removed from his shoulder, thigh and ribcage. 

 

Caitlyn frowns in deep thought. 

 

Jinx moves fast enough not to miss. Why did she not kill him when she could easily have? Was she toying with Marcus? Did she want to kill him slowly? Does she enjoy the torture? She could've killed Marcus. Why didn't she? 

 

Caitlyn grips the mug in her hands, sips on her tea with a focused gaze. Behind her, Grayson, Kenny and Mel watch him too. 

 

She remembers the way she shot Jinx, and yet she moved so fast to evade the bullet. Jinx's words echo in her mind, again and again. 

 

'I have shimmer coursing through my veins instead of blood.'

 

What kind of fucked up cunt does that to a thirteen year old? She feels anger like never before. She feels a desire to protect a child that's been long gone hurt. She feels... And feels... And feels... 

 

She could've choked Jinx. She could've tried to shoot her, to hit her. But all she did is stare at her. A blush spreads through her face at the memories resurfacing. 

 

Jinx didn't want to kiss her because she wanted Caitlyn to desire her for herself and not the drug. 

 

Little did she know Caitlyn was already addicted. Perhaps to the adrenaline. Perhaps to Jinx. Perhaps to both. 

 

But she needs another hit, quick. 

 

Caitlyn runs her fingers through her hair, styling backwards and ruffling it. She looks down, reminiscing about earlier. About Jinx's touch. About the way she looked under Caitlyn's chokehold. About Jinx's moans against her ears. 

 

The words she said to her before she vanished. 

 

Eres mía. You're mine. 

 

Caitlyn hates that she got the message. That she enjoys the idea of being this girl's possession. She's playing with fire, and Caitlyn knows if she ever just slightly messes up, that her life is on the line. 

 

But she understands her so much better than anyone else could. No onde understands Jinx. Only Caitlyn. 

 

And she's addicted to it. 

 

Caitlyn feels a hand over hers. It's Mel, looking up at her with concern in her eyes. Golden eyes stare back at her, and that's when Caitlyn realizes that her hands have an iron grip on the mug in her hands. Mel caresses her, soothes her, and wraps her arms around her neck. Caitlyn lets the mug down on the coffee table next to them, and wraps her arms around Mel's waist, pulling her closer. 

 

"This is the second time you face this woman." Grayson's voice echoes through the room. "I'd love to keep on watching Marcus, but time is of essence. Run me through what happened."

 

Caitlyn clears her throat, leaning her back against the wall. "I went to Bletcham to do surveillance on Marcus. I had a hunch he was up to something." 

 

"In my defense, I did feel like it was dangerous to go there on your own." Kenny points out.

 

"When I got there, Kenny warned me that he was driving away in a hurry. It turns out he was being chased by two assassins in a minivan. He ended up shot, and for some reason, Jinx shot-" 

 

"You mean Powder?" Grayson asks. 

 

"I just call her Jinx because that's what she labeled the perfume bottle she gave me." Caitlyn replies. "Jinx shot the other assassin and chased Marcus through a field. I called Marcus and he ran towards my car. He fainted, and I saw her, Jinx, hanging from the branch of the tree next to me."

 

Caitlyn pauses before continuing. 

 

"I heard her call me, but when I went to shoot her..." Caitlyn closes her fist, eyes full of anger. "I missed the shot."

 

Caitlyn lets go of Mel, and begins pacing around the room. 

 

"But you never miss a shot." Mel points out, worry in her eyes. 

 

"She's fast." Caitlyn exclaims, voice bothered and shaken. "She evaded them with such ease. It's almost as if she was  Spiderman. She..." Caitlyn gulps. "She told me she had shimmer coursing through her veins."

 

Caitlyn omits how she had her against the tree, choking her and grinding against her. She omits the moans against her ear. She omits how gorgeous Jinx is under the sunlight of spring. She omits how her lips looked, plump and soft. 

 

Because she shouldn't even be having those thoughts. Because she shouldn't be having these feelings for her. 

 

"What?!" Kenny exclaims. "Damn... We knew she had been tortured, but that's horrible."

 

"She ran off, too fast for me to do anything." Caitlyn finishes. 

 

"I was a bit concerned for you both when I heard about the attack on that stripclub." Grayson begins. "But this is the third time she comes in contact with you and doesn't kill you. It's making me curious."

 

Caitlyn meets Grayson's eyes in a challenge. "About what?" 

 

"I'm worried for your safety. I'm going to amplify your security from now on. Stealing your underwear was a giveaway that she has a thing for you, Caitlyn. Sexually. But today, she had every chance to murder you and Marcus both and didn't."

 

Caitlyn nods, curt and cold. "Understood."

 

Because she can't be honest. She can't tell her what she truly wants. 

 

Kenny gets up from his seat, and puts his hand on Caitlyn's shoulder for support. "I don't mind helping you with your security at home."

 

Caitlyn smiles at him, patting his head. "Thank you, Kenny. I'll pay you handsomely for that."

 

"Why didn't she kill Marcus?" Mel asks. "If she's so fast, chasing after that skinny idiot shouldn't be a hard task."

 

"That's exactly why I'm so baffled." Caitlyn huffs in annoyance. 

 

Mel reaches out to hold Caitlyn's hand, and when their eyes meet, she seems worried. Caitlyn leans into her shoulder. They're both sitting next to each other on the couch, while Kenny and Grayson sit across them. They're in a safe house, remote and in the middle of the forest. Marcus is in the bedroom next to them being taken care of by nurses and doctors. 

 

"The Russian agent. Veronica Hill. She warned Marcus to escape when she saw Jinx there. She was with someone else. Marcus must be a loose end if they're trying to kill him."

 

Caitlyn nods. "Correct. The officers I called saw her body.  She had been shot three times and managed to survive. Apparently her name is Lyra. Do we have any chance to interrogate her?" 

 

Grayson shakes her head. "The Zaunite government took her, but I'm pulling some strings and calling old friends. I'll have to get back to you on that."

 

Caitlyn nods in acknowledgement. 

 

She squeezes Mel's hand, and while looking at her, she brings it forth, kissing it softly. Caitlyn leans into her, and whispers. "I'll take you back home after Marcus wakes up. Alright?" 

 

"I can take care of myself, but thank you. I'd never say no." 

 

Caitlyn smiles to herself, and presses her lips against Mel's temple. "I know. I'm just trying to be here for you."

 

"Sorry to interrupt you both. But Caitlyn, you mentioned Powder's family has been located, correct?" 

 

Caitlyn turns to Grayson, and nods. "She's from Zaun, but Kenny found out that she's an orphan. Someone called Vander Lanes adopted her and her sister. She had four siblings, the other two adopted. All of them are dead now."

 

There's a shift in Grayson's face, that Caitlyn notices. Sadness, and disbelief. It seems like she's gone for a second, to another time and place. She looks down at her lap, and sighs. 

 

"Thank you." She replies, voice hoarse. 

 

Caitlyn nods in acknowledgement, not wanting to ask any questions in front of everyone. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

 

When Marcus wakes up, they enter the room. It's been accommodated to simulate a hospital, with everything he could need to get better. It's a bit early in the morning, 7:32am sharp to be precise. He looks at them all with a frown on his face, eyes puffy and red. Caitlyn and Kenny record everything with their phones, while Mel looks down at him from the side. 

 

"Hello, Marcus." Grayson greets him as she stands in front of him. 

 

He doesn't seem to want to say anything. 

 

"Listen. We know you're on their payroll, and we know you're their target. You better start talking now before that sociopath comes and chops your balls off." Caitlyn threatens, her voice stern and deep. She slams her boot on the floor. 

 

Marcus looks at her, and sighs. "They call themselves the Black Rose. They knew everything about me, and offered me money for my wife's cancer treatment. She desperately needed a treatment that I couldn't pay for, and time was of essence back then. They also offered to pay for my daughter's education. It was an offer I couldn't refuse."

 

"Was betraying your country worth it?" Caitlyn replies, angered. 

 

Marcus doesn't reply. 

 

"What information did they want?" Mel asks. "What did you give them?" 

 

"They just want to know what conversations are being had. They're interested in the big picture. The gossip." Marcus confesses. 

 

"Was it information about Russia? Zaun?" 

 

"No. Although the agent was Zaunite and we drank a lot, so I just assumed... I thought they were government agents who wanted a little inside gossip, people's whereabouts... I don't know. They just wanted to know anything and everything. And I just wanted my wife to be okay."

 

"I wanted the same thing for Mel." Caitlyn spat. "But now she was attacked. I was attacked. You were attacked. Do you see the issue?!" 

 

"I didn't know she was going to go after Mel." Marcus admits. "They didn't want Mel poking around, so she was attacked. The same way I'm a threat now. And I don't know anything."

 

"Not quite. Mel and Caitlyn didn't get shot or threats to their lives, even though they were actively chasing after the murderer in Berlin. You, however, had two assassins after you. It's not something I take lightly. It means something. I'm not sure yet what." Grayson points out, voice calm. 

 

"I think they took your department rather personally." Marcus says. 

 

"And how do they know about the department?" Caitlyn asks. 

 

"Because I told them. I thought you were still investigating after I followed you one time. I saw you meeting with Grayson and connected the dots." Marcus grunts. 

 

"For someone who says they know hardly anything, you seem to know rather a lot." Grayson points out. "Why didn't you come to us?" 

 

"Because I didn't want to get caught here. I thought the Zaunites or perhaps the Russians would help." 

 

"What do you know about Jinx?" Caitlyn asks taking two steps closer to him. Her voice is desperate and broken. 

 

"Oh. You mean Powder? Yes, well, they're very proud of her. They're using her to... How can I explain it? There is a sequence. A pattern to these kills. They're destabilizing from the ground up, with specific targets that harm them or their loved ones somehow. And Jinx is very good at killing. They have other assassins but Jinx is their favorite."

 

"To what end?" 

 

There's a silence in the room before Marcus confesses. 

 

"Chaos. Revenge. Power."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn shuts the passenger door and dusts her suit jacket off. The morning air is warm, and the sun shines above them, dim and gentle. She walks to the other side of the car, and opens the door for her to get out. She offers her her hand for support, and Mel takes it. She comes out of the car, and Caitlyn pulls her in for a hug. 

 

“Come in with me.” Mel asks. “Sevika’s on a business trip, and I could use the company.”

 

Caitlyn pauses. She tells herself she should decline—go home and rest. But Mel’s gaze lingers, steady and unreadable, and Caitlyn feels the refusal catch in her throat. One doesn't just say no to her, especially when being so forward. 

 

"Of course." She nods, grabbing her hand in earnest. She pulls her inside the mansion, and smiles at the beautiful decoration of it all. The ceilings are as high as the Noxians themselves, with gorgeous paintings decorating the walls. Mel has exquisite taste, and so she's got plants, sculptures and quite the beautiful granite floor. The air smells of tulips and expensive wine. Her boots click against polished floor until Mel takes her coat and drapes it over a hanger. 

 

“Make yourself comfortable.” Mel says, her voice carrying through the cavernous space. “It’s a terrible thing, such an empty house.”

 

Caitlyn follows her deeper inside, her fingers brushing the walls. The echo of her footsteps follows Mel into the heart of the mansion. 

 

The living room is vast, but the firelight warms them both. Caitlyn sits beside Mel on a velvet couch, her glass of red wine untouched in her hand. The silence stretches too long. She can’t sit still—her heel taps against the rug, her free hand tightens around the glass stem.

 

Mel notices, of course. She always does.

 

“You’re restless.” Mel points out, swirling her wine. “You haven’t even tasted it.”

 

Caitlyn exhales, closing her eyes. “I can’t stop thinking about you. About all of this. You’re not safe, Mel. Not with everything happening.”

 

Mel tilts her head, a faint smile playing at her lips. “And who will protect me? You?”

 

Caitlyn doesn’t answer immediately. She sets her glass down with a decisive click, then turns towards Mel. Her hands rise before she can stop herself, cupping Mel’s face, thumbs brushing along her jawline.

 

“Yes,” Caitlyn whispers, her voice breaking with conviction. “I want to.”

 

For once, Mel’s smile falters. Something flickers in her eyes, soft, searching. She leans into Caitlyn’s touch, her own hand covering one of Caitlyn’s.

 

“I'm going to be alright,” Mel says, steady as ever. “You worry too much, my darling. I’m just as concerned for you.”

 

The words land heavier than Caitlyn expects, and her breath catches. The couch suddenly feels too small for the space between them.

 

Mel sets her own glass aside, and with deliberate grace, she shifts. One knee slides over Caitlyn’s thighs, then the other, until she’s astride Caitlyn’s lap. The movement is slow, inevitable, and when Mel settles there, both of them freeze.

 

Caitlyn’s face flushes scarlet. Her hands hover at Mel’s waist and hold her closer.

 

Mel only laughs softly, a velvet sound against Caitlyn’s ear. “My, my. Look at you. Blushing like a schoolgirl.”

 

“I—” Caitlyn stammers, heat burning down her neck. "Stop tormenting me, you know you're beautiful."

 

Mel leans forward, close enough that Caitlyn feels her breath. “I'm not going to continue with this investigation. One day, it's Marcus, then next, it'll be us. But I know you well enough to know you don't want to stop.”

 

Her tone is playful, but her eyes are sharp, glittering. Caitlyn swallows hard, her heart hammering, caught between panic and something far more dangerous.

 

"I don't." Caitlyn admits, her fingers sliding up Mel's back. "I never thought I'd be patronizing you like this. But I don't want to see you hurt."

 

"You're lucky I agree with you, otherwise I would be offended." Mel whispers, leaning towards Caitlyn. 

 

Caitlyn swallows, every nerve on fire with the weight of Mel on her lap. Her hands finally find Mel’s neck, fingers trembling against her skin. Caitlyn leans into her. 

 

“Mel…” she breathes, almost a warning. 

 

Mel tilts her head, eyes searching Caitlyn’s face. For a moment, the usual composure slips, replaced by curiosity, temptation, need. She brushes her thumb along Caitlyn’s cheek, a slow, deliberate stroke.

 

“You’re trembling.” Mel murmurs, her lips curved in a soft smile. “Do you desire me?”

 

Caitlyn nods he head, sitting up straight so that she's closer to Mel's lips. “Stupid question.” Her voice drops, hoarse. “You’re… impossible.”

 

That earns her a low laugh, warm and dangerous. Mel leans closer, so close Caitlyn feels the faint brush of her hair, the whisper of wine-sweet breath.

 

“Then stop overthinking.” Mel says, and before Caitlyn can falter, she closes the distance.

 

The kiss is soft, tentative. Caitlyn closes her eyes and hums into her lips, loving the taste of her. Her hands tighten at Mel’s waist, pulling her closer. Mel shifts against her, deepening the kiss, slow and deliberate, swallowing Caitlyn’s hesitation.

 

Caitlyn tilts her head, desperate now, lips parting under Mel’s. The kiss turns warmer, hungrier, yet still nothing more than a kiss. When they finally pull back, their foreheads rest together, breaths uneven. Caitlyn’s cheeks are burning, her heart slamming against her ribs.

 

Mel studies her, her lips still glistening from the kiss. A sly smile returns, but softer this time. “There.” Mel whispers. “Now we’re both trembling.”

 

The air between them is still charged, lips tingling from the kiss, when a deep voice cuts across the room.

 

“Well,” Ambessa says from the doorway, arms crossed. She just came from the kitchen. “This is a sight I am shocked to see. Caitlyn and you, little one?”

 

Caitlyn stiffens. Mel straightens on her lap but doesn’t move away, her expression flickering between annoyance and composure. Caitlyn’s face burns hot.

 

Ambessa steps further into the room, boots heavy against the floor. Her gaze sweeps over them both, sharp and amused at the same time. “Had I known you preferred women, Caitlyn...” Ambessa says, lips curving up. “I would’ve proposed a marriage between you and Mel fifteen years ago.”

 

Mel lets out the faintest laugh, low and silky, but Caitlyn finds herself at a loss for words. She clears her throat, gently guiding Mel off her lap before standing to greet the general.

 

“General.” Caitlyn says, formal, though her voice wavers. "I'm afraid not even my mother knew it. She made her opinions on such a life understood, so I just didn't say anything. But it would have been an honor. It's been a few months since we last talked."

 

Ambessa’s eyes narrow slightly at the stiffness, but she gestures for Caitlyn to continue.

 

“My mother…” Caitlyn swallows, forcing herself to hold Ambessa’s gaze. “She found me a man instead. A match she approved of. One I do not love. The good news is that I’m divorcing him. I won’t live the rest of my life tied to someone I feel nothing for.”

 

Ambessa’s expression shifts. For a moment, she seems almost thoughtful. Then, with a low hum, she smiles, charming as ever. 

 

“As parents, we think that, by teaching our children how to fly, that we somehow have a right to dictate where they flock to. I'm glad you are doing what you want, now, little one."

 

Caitlyn exhales, tension loosening in her shoulders, though her cheeks remain pink. Mel’s hand finds hers, fingers brushing hers in a supportive, grounding manner. 

 

Ambessa notices, but for once, she doesn’t comment. Mel exhales, her hand still resting lightly against Caitlyn’s. She turns her gaze toward her mother, eyes narrowed but curious.

 

“What do you want, Mother?” Mel asks, her tone edged but steady. "I hope you haven't come here to convince me to quit working with Cait. Because, Caitlyn has already done it. I'm now jobless again."

 

Ambessa studies her daughter for a long moment. For once, her expression softens. She steps closer, her towering presence less menacing than usual, though still impossible to ignore.

 

“Has she, now?” Ambessa inquires, her voice low, deliberate. “Is that true, little one?"

 

The question hangs heavy in the room. Mel’s lips curve faintly, a small, weary smile.

 

Caitlyn nods in earnest, eyes focused on the general's. "I can't stand idle and drag Mel further into this mess. I will do anything within my reach to keep her safe."

 

Caitlyn’s throat tightens. 

 

"That...” Ambessa says, her voice smooth. “is all I want for my daughter. For her to be okay.”

 

Caitlyn feels odd at the remark, a gut feeling making it's way within her stomach. She doesn't know why. 

 

“You’ll have an upgrade in security, my child. The best. Discreet, but absolute. No one will touch you while I draw breath.”

 

Mel nods, her features softening with relief. She leans into Caitlyn a little more, allowing her touch to comfort her and ground her. "Thank you for your concern, mother. I'm sure I can do something at the council." 

 

Lord knows how difficult Mel's relationship with her mother is. 

 

Ambessa takes a step closer to Caitlyn then, extending her hand. Caitlyn blinks, caught off guard by the gesture, but she releases Mel just enough to clasp it. Ambessa’s grip is firm, heavy with authority.

 

“You are strong, protective, and bold.” Ambessa says, her voice low and certain. “Qualities I admire. And qualities my daughter admires, too.”

 

Caitlyn swallows, the weight of the compliment hitting harder than she expected. She nods once, determined anyway. “Thank you, General.”

 

Ambessa’s lips curve faintly, almost into a smile. “You’ve earned my trust, Kiramman. That is no small thing. You shall hear from me soon.”

 

Caitlyn nods again, quietly resolute. “I won’t forget that.”

 

Mel watches them both, amused by the whole ordeal. 

 

"Alright. Does anyone want to have brunch?" 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

It's 6 pm. 

 

Caitlyn sits on her bathtub, her body relaxing around the warm water. She has her eyes closed, hair washed and smooth. She has the music box that Jinx gave her, open and playing the song. It's raining outside, a spring blessing altogether,and she's trying to rest after pulling an all-nighter with Marcus. She yawns, eyes tired and sight blurry. 

 

The water scents the whole bathroom in a soft citric aroma, and her candles smell like mandarins. She's been clean for thirty minutes, and been thinking about Jinx for twenty. 

 

She sings the song, because at the end of the day, who cares? Her pronunciation is not perfect, but she gets the feeling of it. Her body, set ablaze by the promise of it. Should she ever believe in the words of that song as Jinx's vows of love, she'd be crazy. But every single pore of her body is heated up in pent up desire. 

 

Because it's jarring that her body is this alive by the thoughts of a murderer. A murderer fifteen years younger than her, no less. 

 

Because her body hasn't gotten the memo yet, that this is not okay. That she shouldn't be feeling this way about her. 

 

Caitlyn feels her eyes, heavy and bloated, closing.

 

Sleep takes her, while she's still in the tub. 

 

Caitlyn wakes up to the feeling of kisses all over her face. She's still quite out of it, but her eyes catch a glimpse of magenta above her. The lips are warm, soft to the touch against her. 

 

"Jinx?" Caitlyn asks, still asleep. 

 

She moves in her spot, her body and back sore from her unpleasant position. Did she fall asleep in the bathtub again? 

 

But then... Who's kissing her? 

 

"Wake up."

 

Caitlyn opens her eyes wide, her body tensing up in fear. She gasps, looking up at her and jumping. The water splashes everywhere. Her heart hammers in her chest, and she's so upset. She's angry. Because... 

 

"What the bloody hell are you doing here?!" 

 

Jinx sits on the edge of the bathtub, amused. Her legs are crossed, and she's stunning in every single angle. 

 

Jinx is wearing a sleek, form-fitting black dress with cutouts on the sides. It has a crisscross lace-up design running down the front and side, held together with ties that meet up with a really high thigh slit. It flows out and reaches the floor, dragging with every step she took. Her mid-length  blue hair cascades over her shoulders, shining under the bathroom light. Her tattoos are on display, with the beautiful clouds spreading through her pale skin. She's wearing makeup, perfect smokey eyes and red lips. And even with such a petite build, Jinx's legs are nothing but dangerous muscle. 

 

Caitlyn feels the heat return to her pruned up, cold body, because it should be impossible to look this good in a dress. 

 

"I'd thought you would hit me or something." Jinx smirks, eyes meeting Caitlyn's. "I'm here for you, of course."

 

Caitlyn feels her chest about to burst out. The question leaves her lips before she can regret asking the question. "Are you here to kill me?" 

 

Jinx tilts her head to the side, and gets up on her two feet. That's when Caitlyn notices it, she's wearing a gorgeous pair of high heels. Then, she reaches out to caress Caitlyn's cheek with her hand. 

 

"I'm not interested in hurting you, silly. I just want to have dinner with you."

 

Caitlyn sees her silhouette then, a perfect curve in her body even if she's quite thin. Caitlyn gulps on her spot, and grabs the towel from her hands. Her eyes fall on Jinx's perfect nails, painted magenta and blue. Their fingers brush with the small touch, and it makes Caitlyn shiver. 

 

She grabs a towel, and gets up from the water, drying herself in the process. Her body is trembling in fear, as she gets out of the tub. 

 

"Are you playing with me?" Caitlyn asks, voice hoarse. "Are you just trying to kill me with flair? Taking extra steps to torture me?" 

 

Jinx smiles to herself, scoffing. "Please. It's Marcus who I'm after. So, what do you say, princess? I'd love to make you dinner."

 

Caitlyn looks at herself, wraps the towel around her naked body, and pretends the look on Jinx's eyes full of lust, doesn't ignite something within her as well. 

 

"Yes." She says, her voice trembling. 

 

"Good." Jinx hums in delight, leaning towards her. She wraps her arms around Caitlyn's neck, kissing her cheek. "I brought you a dress I designed for you."

 

Caitlyn gulps at the sudden contact, her face blushing bright red. The proximity of it all, she's face to face with Jinx now. And her body feels her warmth necessary. But Caitlyn doesn't dare hold her. 

 

"You designed a dress... For me to wear?" 

 

Caitlyn feels Jinx release her neck. She grabs Caitlyn's hand, and drags her out of the bathroom. There, on her bed, she sees her in a brighter light, and swoons. The grip of her is strong, but she doesn't complain. She liked her intensity, even though she's also scared. 

 

Caitlyn sees it then. A blue dress, as gorgeous as ever, laying on her bed. It's got a mix of two shades of blue, navy and sky, like Jinx's hair. And at the bottom of it, it's painted black. It's strapless, with a corset and the most gorgeous lace on it. The dress is long, and by the look of it, long enough for Caitlyn's tall build.

 

It's absolutely gorgeous. 

 

"Jinx..." Caitlyn whispers, eyes not leaving the dress. "That's a stunning dress."

 

"I saw this bird that reminds me of you. A stellar Jay. So this dress is called Stellar Jay too." Jinx smiles, the closest thing to genuine, and grabs the dress. "I want to see you wearing it tonight. Can you do that for me?" 

 

Caitlyn smiles, faintly, and nods. "Alright. At least, if you kill me, I'll be quite the fashionable ghost."

 

Jinx snickers next to her, and sits on Caitlyn's bed. She places her hands behind her torso, and leans back, crossing her legs. She gives Caitlyn an encouraging nod, and Caitlyn feels her body get warm soon. 

 

Caitlyn looks into her shimmer eyes, determined and shy. She drops her towel, and enjoys the look on Jinx's face when she does. She's staring at her, open and unrestrained. Her eyes are following every curve of Caitlyn, assessing her every detail. She takes a step towards the bed, and touches the dress, feeling it's detailed corset beneath her fingers.

 

Caitlyn grabs it, and, fully naked, puts it on. She skips the underwear to not ruin the neckline, because she learned her lesson last time she wore one of Jinx's dresses. It's meant to look good, and no corset can fit her well with one. She brings it up to her chest, and for once, stops focusing on Jinx. 

 

"Allow me to."

 

That's when Jinx gets up from her spot, and walks behind her. Caitlyn feels her slender fingers caressing her back, from her wet hair to her neck, shoulders and back muscles. She's taking her time, making sure she's squeezing the corset properly, while Caitlyn rearranges her breasts so that they're in the right place. 

 

"I can't believe we're doing this." Caitlyn admits, her voice low and unsure. 

 

"Eh, I know your type is probably not a murderer either, so I won't take offense to your words." Jinx laughs behind her. "Legs, you might hate it, but I know you want me."

 

Caitlyn closes her eyes, letting herself enjoy the slow pressure of the corset around her waist. It's tight, but enough to make her uncomfortable. And then, she feels it. Jinx lips on her skin, nibbling all over her back. 

 

"It feels wrong." Caitlyn gulps. "It's wrong."

 

"Is it?" Jinx replies, stepping in front of Caitlyn now. She looks up at her, and leans close, looking at her from head to toes. She caresses Caitlyn's jaw with her lips, nibbling on her skin like she did at the bathtub to wake her up. Caitlyn feels her body come alive with desire. 

 

She feels Jinx's lips leave her neck. Caitlyn whines at the loss of touch, but Jinx grabs her hand and pulls her to her vanity. Caitlyn takes a seat, and Jinx slides her fingers through her wet hair. 

 

"I'll get it done for you." Jinx sighs out, twirling Caitlyn's chair so she's facing the mirror. She grabs a comb, and starts working on her hair. For someone so violent, her touch is quite heavenly. Or perhaps it's just all the pent up desire inside her. She's never been with a woman, not really. And Jinx's mere existence is making her pulse between her legs. 

 

Caitlyn takes her chance to look at Jinx as she does her hair. The way she scrunches up her face as she focuses. The way she licks her lips. The way she whispers to herself as she does Caitlyn's hair. The way she fixes Caitlyn's long hair as if she's done it a hundred times before. 

 

"You know, I'm not a big fan of cops and pilties, so I guess we're both on the same page." 

 

Caitlyn smiles, and Jinx's eyes meet hers in appreciation. She can't outshoot her, she can't outstrength her, so why bother? If she's going to die, she will at least die by the hands of a gorgeous woman, and dressed to perfection. 

 

"Where's your husband at, anyway?" 

 

Caitlyn shrugs. "On a date with his boyfriend."

 

Jinx frowns, head tilting to the side. "You're both gay? What the hell happened?" She giggles. "Let me guess. The pressure of rich people."

 

Caitlyn nods. "Mother, in my case. Please don't drag him into this."

 

Jinx rolls her eyes. "I'm not going to hurt him. And I'm not going to hurt you either. Don't try to shoot me though. It'll get ugly for you."

 

Caitlyn looks at her hair, and watches Jinx as she blows it dry. Then, Jinx puts Caitlyn's hair on a ponytail, tight and as high as it can be. Caitlyn can't deny it, she looks good. Her hair is long enough to look amazing like this, moving with every shake of her head. 

 

Caitlyn feels brave enough then. She reaches out to the drawer next to her, and takes out the perfume bottle that Jinx gave her. Jinx smirks in recognition, and she watches as Caitlyn applies it. Then, Jinx leans in, diving her head against Caitlyn's neck and inhaling deep. 

 

Caitlyn sees her pupils dilate at the scent of her, mixed with the perfume and her overall look. 

 

"I brought you a bottle of wine." Jinx whispers. "Bordeaux. Château Pétrus. I know it's up to your standards."

 

Caitlyn smiles, just a bit. "Do I look snobby, perhaps?" 

 

"I know you are." Jinx counters with a smirk. She twirls Caitlyn on her chair again, and nods towards the mirror. "Go look at yourself in the mirror, legs." 

 

Caitlyn gets up from the chair, and takes three steps to the left. And she can't help but open her jaw wide, because she looks gorgeous. The dress compliments her body, her hair is so beautiful, and the thigh-slit allows her legs to be on display in the most dangerous way. That's when she sees Jinx reach out to grab a pair of heels from the floor. Caitlyn does not recognize them, so it must be another gift. 

 

Caitlyn wonders if she could rewind time to never agree marrying a man, because doing all this feels more intimate than all of her fifteen years of marriage. 

 

"You look marvelous." Caitlyn admits, looking at Jinx in the mirror reflection. "Magnificent."

 

"Thank you, gorgeous." Jinx replies, and then she pulls her towards the edge of the bed. Caitlyn sits, and Jinx kneels before her, shimmer eyes meeting cerulean ones. She watches as Jinx caresses her legs, and begins putting on the heels on her. They're platform, golden to match the vibe of the colors of the Kiramman house. They're her size, or course, because Jinx knows every detail of her and she does it effectively and without any complaints. 

 

Caitlyn blushes again, deep red. She reaches out to caress Jinx's hair, and leans in, pressing her lips against Jinx's cheek. Jinx smiles, soft and gentle, and pulls her up again. 

 

"Let me cook dinner for us."

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn dismisses the staff for the night, hoping that whatever happens to her doesn't affect their lives. Jinx might be acting nice, but Caitlyn doesn't want to risk it. 

 

Jinx walks towards the stove like she owns the place, tossing her hair back with a glorious flip. 

 

“Play some music, legs.” she says, almost sing-song, rifling through Caitlyn’s neatly stacked fridge. Caitlyn is standing behind the counter. She walks towards the stereo nearby, and turns it on. Then, she connects her phone and plays some Seraphine at a moderate volume. 

 

To her surprise, Jinx starts cooking something. She recognizes the ingredients, and sits on the kitchen stool as she watches her. 

 

"Ionian fried rice?" 

 

Jinx hums a yes. "Sit on the counter and look pretty while I work, legs. That’s your job tonight.” Caitlyn watches as she opens the wine bottle. She looks around. "Glasses?"

 

“Top shelf on your left."

 

Jinx grabs two wine glasses from the cabinet, and pours. She twirls it around, and offers Caitlyn a glass. Caitlyn grabs it, and smells it with curiosity. She hums in delight, eyes glistening with anticipation. She takes a sip. 

 

It's so delicious. 

 

It's been half an hour, and Jinx's been cooking like a professional chef in her kitchen, effortlessly. The emptiness in the air mixes with the smell of the stir fry, while the noises Jinx makes echo through the silent kitchen. She's done now, stove turned off and food steaming as she grabs a few dishes to serve it. 

 

Caitlyn gets up from the kitchen stool, and walks towards Jinx.

 

"We can't let it go that far again." Caitlyn tells her. "What happened in the stripclub... I can't. We can't." 

 

“Mm.” Jinx tilts her head, the knife flashing in her hand, grin curling wider. “Nah. You’re just scared, princess. Because your precious little morals and those dirty, dirty desires in your head?” She stabs the knife into the cutting board and leans forward. “They’re fighting.”

 

Caitlyn’s stomach twists. Her lips part, but no sound comes. 

 

Jinx steps closer, resting her hands on the counter, leaning in until Caitlyn feels her breath on her skin. Her grin is wicked, too sure of itself.

 

“Don’t worry,” Jinx murmurs. “I’m not in a rush. Maybe not today. Maybe not tomorrow. But one day?” Her gaze drags slowly down Caitlyn’s body and back up to her eyes. “I’m gonna fuck you. And you’re gonna love it. Because you're going to be begging me to.”

 

The kitchen is quiet, the only sound the slow simmer of the pan Jinx abandoned. Caitlyn sits frozen on the counter, pulse hammering, unable to decide if she wants to shove Jinx away or pull her closer. She's leaning against the kitchen counter. 

 

The choice is too easy. Caitlyn opens her legs, and wraps one around Jinx's thin frame tightly. She pulls her into her, her left arm around her waist, grabbing it like so. Her right hand reaches around Jinx's neck. Caitlyn slides her fingers through the roots of Jinx's hair at the bottom of her head, and pulls her in, close enough to smell her breath. 

 

"You don't want to kiss me because you're afraid I'll want you for the hit." Caitlyn sighs, eyes hazy and pupils dilated. Jinx's breath hitches as she moans, pressing her torso against Caitlyn's. "But I already can't get you out of your mind. I already can't stop thinking about you, Jinx."

 

Caitlyn leans in just enough, their lips brushing just barely. Jinx chases after her, but Caitlyn wants to make her want it. She brushes her nose against Jinx's, their breaths mingling in the dense air they're sharing. And that's when Jinx moans, because Caitlyn pulls her hair to make her look into her eyes. 

 

That's when Caitlyn presses their lips together. 

 

The kiss tastes sweet, and her lips soft. They both moan, rejoicing in each other's arms. Caitlyn feels her legs weakening, trembling as Jinx begins touching her too. Jinx's hands grab a handful of her ass, and Caitlyn feels her tongue inside her mouth. Caitlyn twirls them so that Jinx is pressed against the counter, and then she leans into the kiss. 

 

Caitlyn feels a warmth spreading through her system. Her thoughts are messy, dizzy with a current of energy that spreads like wildfire. She feels thirsty for something she can't pinpoint, a hunger deep in her stomach. She wonders if it's the shimmer, or just her body begging for a woman's touch. For Jinx's touch. 

 

It's probably both. 

 

Caitlyn feels the hit spread through her, as Jinx's tongue plays with hers. The kiss turns desperate, with both of them groping each other and moaning. Caitlyn can't believe how easy it is to get this wet, but she's dripping. And when she pulls away and opens her eyes, she feels everything moving, her sight blurry. 

 

Every single pore of her body is alive, and noticing everything that she didn't really care for before. Like the press of the corset against her skin, the heels and the moisture between her legs. She feels incredible. 

 

At first, it's a rush that slides under Caitlyn’s skin like liquid fire. She gasps, and the sound of her own breath fractures, echoing through their kiss. Then, her world sharpens. The rain outside isn’t just a light pour anymore. It’s a storm of magenta, burning brighter than anything within her. Every movement near her shimmers in its wake: the twitch of Jinx's lips, the moan against her lips, each with unnatural clarity.

 

Her skin prickles. The brush of their skin sends sparks racing up her arm. Even her pulse thunders so loudly she can feel it as if she's just had an orgasm, rattling inside her, nonstop. Caitlyn swears she can taste the air. Metallic. Sharp. Like biting down on blood. And beneath it all, gunpowder. 

 

Jinx. The sound of her laugh. 

 

She leans toward the heat, the chaos, the gravity of Jinx. And in that instant, Caitlyn understands the most dangerous part of shimmer. It doesn’t just make the world sharper. It makes her crave for touch. 

 

Caitlyn leans in, kissing Jinx's neck. No, not kissing. She's a vampire about to get her feed, nibbling on her pale skin and sucking on it afterwards. 

 

"Damn." Jinx groans, pupils dilated. "How's that for your first hit of shimmer?" 

 

Caitlyn licks her lips, trying to taste more of Jinx's spit. That's when she notices her body trembling, begging for something she can't name. She's disheveled, hair messy and lips puffy. 

 

"Lovely." She confesses, feeling a little bit weird, in a good way. She's gasping for air. "I'm afraid this is the first time."

 

"Shimmer ain't no funny business. You know that, right?" 

 

Caitlyn nods. "It was worth it."

 

"I bet." Jinx looks at her, eyes alive and full of thrill. "Let's eat, because if you kiss me again, I will fuck you instead."

 

Caitlyn nods, and Jinx serves two bowls of the rice she made, accompanied by some side dishes and soup. Caitlyn does not dare to tell her she wouldn't mind being fucked, in fact she'd love to. She needs to. The slick dripping down her thighs is proof enough. But she doesn't say anything. 

 

Jinx lights a few candles on the table, and sets everything there. Caitlyn tries not to think about her senses feeling alive, buzzing with energy. 

 

She should be arresting her. She should be calling Grayson, the police, or even fucking Ambessa. And yet all Caitlyn can do is walk after her. Because she wants more than just a kiss. And she wants her all to herself. Because honest to the gods, Caitlyn wants to stay with her, and just learn more about her. That she wants more than just a few minutes of her company. 

 

Gods, she's a loser. 

 

She follows after Jinx, and brings the wine with her. The dining room is empty except for them, and the table is looking delicious with the meal Jinx cooked. If she didn't know better, she'd think she's a chef. She serves their second glass of the night, and looks into Jinx's eyes. 

 

"Did you kill my guards when you sneaked in?" 

 

Jinx shakes her head. "Don't want you getting mad at me, so no. I don't need to kill everyone I see, did you know that?"

 

Caitlyn nods, sitting across her on the table. She smiles at her, and grabs her glass of wine, taking a sip. "Thank you for the food."

 

Jinx does the same, and digs into the food. Even though she looks like a dream come true, elegant and classy, she eats messy and raunchy, in the most charming way possible. Caitlyn has a feeling that it applies to the bedroom too. 

 

Caitlyn tries the food, and her eyes open wide at the taste. It's perfect, just the way she knows it's meant to be done, and the beef is tender enough to fall apart with ease. 

 

"Are you a part-time chef when you're done killing?" Caitlyn jokes. "This is wonderful."

 

"Eh. My sister was better." Jinx shrugs. 

 

The whole mundane thing is so attractive that Caitlyn yearns for it. Because she could get used to coming home and eating Jinx's food, like this, drinking and eating something delicious. What's her heart done to her brain? Turning her to putty, to a crazed lesbian whose body begs for touch? For Jinx's touch? 

 

Caitlyn chews on her food, and takes a spoonful of the broth served in front of her. "I saw her on your prison file. What happened at that explosion?" 

 

The question hangs heavy in the air, and Caitlyn feels the change in Jinx's behavior. She wonders if perhaps this is what gets Caitlyn killed,daring to be this bold when their dinner had been going well. Jinx's eyes are focused on the plate in front of her, but she looks distressed. 

 

"They died. I died too." Jinx admits, voice high-pitched and trembling. "Powder is gone now. I'm just Jinx."

 

Caitlyn reaches out to grab her hand over the table, and caresses Jinx's knuckles with tenderness. "Was your sister someone who taught you how to cook?" 

 

Jinx hums a yes, broken. "Mhm. How to fight too. But that was more her thing. I liked guns more."

 

Caitlyn sees her touch her face, scratching her skin with a crazed look in her eyes. She flinches, and her grip on her spoon is tight. She's not saying anything, but Caitlyn can tell she's upset. 

 

"You don't have to tell me if it's painful." Caitlyn mumbles, holding Jinx's hand in hers. 

 

Jinx's gaze turns vicious, almost aggressive. Her eyes turn towards an empty space next to them, and she's suddenly pulling her hand away. She hits the table, and she yells. "Fuck off!" 

 

Caitlyn looks at the empty space, then at Jinx. She's confused. 

 

"Shut up!" Jinx says, looking to her left. "She doesn't know anything! You don't know anything!" 

 

Caitlyn squints, wondering in deep thought. Shimmer is supposed to harm someone's mental health, isn't it? So is Jinx truly talking to her, who's deep in silence, or is she talking to someone else?

 

"What don't I know, Jinx?" Caitlyn tries, unsure if touching her would be wise. 

 

Jinx squeezes her eye, scrunches her face and turns to the left. 

 

"Yes! I'm a Jinx, you can shut up!" Jinx yells, exhausted. She's got tears in her eyes, and her hands are trembling. "It's all my fault!" 

 

Caitlyn, tentatively, reaches out to Jinx. She puts a hand over her shoulder, her head tilted to the side. The words leave her lips before she can say anything else. "Hey. Stay with me."

 

There seems to be a split second where Jinx looks at her, confused, but she shakes it off and flinches away. Caitlyn pulls her hand back, not wanting to do anything wrong. Not wanting to see her hurting. 

 

"No!" Jinx shakes her head, getting up from her seat. She crouches down, slides her fingers through her hair, and then pulls. She closes her eyes, and covers her ears with her hands. "Not again!" 

 

Caitlyn's brain starts thinking about it. Jinx was only thirteen, and the explosion killed her entire family. It would've killed Jinx too if it wasn't for Singed. The words Jinx said are echoing in her mind, and every piece of the puzzle begins to make sense, like clockwork. 

 

The name "Jinx" starts making more sense now. 

 

Because she killed her entire family on accident. 

 

Caitlyn dares to get up, and walks up to her as she cries. She kneels next to her, and wraps her arms around Jinx's waist, pulling her close. She feels her flinch again, but doesn't let her go. Caitlyn pulls Jinx into her arms and leans against the wall. Caitlyn presses her lips against her forehead, and Jinx relaxes in her arms, just enough for her to not move away. 

 

"It's not your fault." She tells her, voice trembling. Because she's terrified, because she doesn't want to hurt Jinx and because, deep down, she cares. "It's not your fault."

 

It feels like a mantra that rolls out of her tongue, and each time she repeats it, she says it more confident. She rocks them both like a baby at naptime, moving her body from side to side. Caitlyn feels Jinx calm down, just enough to just cry in silence. 

 

"They died because of me." Jinx confesses, her voice barely even there. "I'm a Jinx."

 

Caitlyn looks into shimmer eyes, and grabs her chin to make sure Jinx is looking at her. She wants her to listen when she says it, because she means it. "You didn't do it on purpose. You are still you."

 

Caitlyn sees the way Jinx trembles in her arms. The way she wants to get away from something that Caitlyn can't see. The way Jinx doesn't push her away anymore. Jinx clings to her torso, and hugs Caitlyn back. 

 

"You pilties and your soft hearts." Jinx scoffs between sobs. "Well, legs. If you keep saying sweet shit like this, you are gonna fuck me one day.”

 

 Caitlyn doesn't have any snarky comeback for that. 

 

"Doesn't matter if it's a mistake. They're not going to come back to life." Jinx continues. 

 

Caitlyn leans in, pressing a kiss on Jinx's cheek. When she pulls away, she runs her fingers through Jinx's hair. "Do you hear voices?" 

 

The question hangs heavy between them, and Caitlyn admits she's maybe pushing it for someone who's not okay in her arms. But she wants to know. 

 

"It's them I hear." Jinx whispers. "Mylo and his stupid little laughs. Vi calling me a Jinx. Claggor saying they work better without me..."

 

"You don't hear Vander's voice?" Caitlyn asks before thinking. She regrets the question, but sometimes her autistic curiosity doesn't have a filter. 

 

Jinx looks up, her shimmer doe eyes focused for a second. She shakes her head. 

 

"Didn't you know?" Jinx asks. "He was missing. I didn't kill him in the explosion. Turns out when I woke up at Singed's lab... Old scientist had his body. He was experimenting on my dad, that piece of shit. He was alive, but he wasn't really my dad anymore. So I killed him too and then Singed. Ended his suffering and shit."

 

Caitlyn grips Jinx's waist stronger than before, anger building up inside her. She's sure if she'd gone through something like that, she'd be just as messed up as Jinx is. 

 

Deep inside... 

 

"Guess you got yourself a freak, huh?" Jinx jokes. 

 

Caitlyn shakes her head. "No. No. We're just two different shades of the same blue... that's all. I don't think I would've done any better in your position."

 

The silence then, is comfortable. It's an admission that they're not that different. 

 

Caitlyn grabs the food from the table, and sits back next to Jinx once more, both bowls in her hands. She offers her hers, and, using her spoon, offers to feed her. And Jinx, begrudgingly, takes it. And they sit there, in silence, eating without saying anything else.

 

Caitlyn and her finish the bottle of wine, and it helps Jinx's mood just a bit more. By the time they're done eating, she's certain she will be alright. Jinx is entertaining her with kisses, and Caitlyn is hazy again with shimmer. 

 

"You know what I'm after, don't you?" 

 

Caitlyn hums a yes. "The rat, of course."

 

Jinx gets up from the floor, and dusts her dress off. "I need to go and take care of it. I'd suggest you stay away from the whole thing."

 

Caitlyn frowns, doing her best to get up in high heels and a corset. "I'll call the cops once you're gone."

 

Jinx shrugs absentmindedly, eyes meeting Caitlyn's in a playful gaze. "You can try all you want to. It'll make you feel better, I'm sure. But he's going to die and you can't stop me."

 

Caitlyn wants to say something, to rebut with her own opinion and a snarky comment. But all she does is lean into Jinx, kissing her goodbye. And then, she's gone. 

 

Caitlyn sighs to herself, and walks back to her room. She dials Grayson. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

Caitlyn presses the phone so tight to her ear it squeaks against her skin. The line clicks once, then Grayson’s voice answers with a steady tone. 

 

“Caitlyn.”

 

“Grayson. Marcus is in danger.” The words tumble out before she can control them. “We need to check on him, now.”

 

There’s the faintest sigh of static, then Grayson’s calm reply. “I know. It's exactly why we put him under witness protection, Kiramman. He isn’t safe, but we’re handling it.”

 

“No.” Caitlyn’s voice sharpens, urgent. She paces the length of her room, heels biting against the rug, corset still half undone from earlier. “This isn’t about whatever you’ve been monitoring. She came here.”

 

A pause. Grayson’s tone firms, concerned. “She what?”

 

“Jinx.” The name leaves Caitlyn’s mouth like a gunshot. “She was in my house. Tonight. She told me herself she’s going to kill Marcus. And she just left!”

 

The silence on the other end is heavier this time. Caitlyn can hear Grayson breathing, steady but slower, the weight of calculation behind it.

 

“Caitlyn.” Grayson asks, her voice gentle. “Are you alright?”

 

Caitlyn swallows. Her gaze flicks to the door, as if Jinx might still be on the other side, grinning, waiting. “For now. But you don’t understand, you have to move him. Get him somewhere safe.”

 

Grayson exhales through her nose, a sharp sound of frustration she doesn’t often let show. “Damn it. Alright. I’ll send a unit and pick you up. We'll be there in a few."

 

"Hurry up." 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

 

Jinx perches on the branch of a tree, eyes focused forward. Rain speckles her skin, but she hardly notices, or cares. She has everything under control, what with the device in her hands, warm and turned on. Below, the safe house glows like a theater set, tidy lights and the soft, human scuff of people moving inside. She checks with her binoculars and sees Marcus there, laying on the hospital bed. She sees the numerous people in the house, officers protecting him from harm. 

 

What a pity. 

 

A swarm blossoms out of the dark of the night. They're tiny fireflies, glowing beautiful under the moon light. First, a handful. Then more, until the air is swarmed up with hundreds of these robots at her order. 

 

Inside, Marcus reads a book. He does not hear the thing that comes first. A warning tap against the glass on his window... By the time he looks up, the tiny fireflies begin to glow bright and vibrant. 

 

Then, the other 499 fireflies land on the roof, walls and windows, and every door as well. 

 

There is no cinematic countdown. Just Jinx smirking as she presses the button. 

 

 There is the bright, immediate bloom of flame and then everything else happens at once. The first window goes from reflection to inferno; heat dives out like a mouth. Glass gives with a shriek, whole frames dissolving into sparks. The entire house bursts in a sheet of orange so bright Jinx lifts a hand to shield her eyes, laughing. The sound of it is not a pop but a ripping — the house tearing itself apart.

 

Screams follow, a raw, human noise that knifes the air. It is messy and alive and perfect. Jinx doesn't bother counting their heads. She doesn't give a shit. It's just fun to kill. It's fun to bomb. 

 

She watches it all become caverns of smoke and embers. The safe house groans and collapses inward, a house turning into a furnace and then into an avalanche of rubble and charcoal. 

 

In the blast’s echo, Jinx can feel things. Joy is raw and immediate, a sharp pulse behind her ribs. She chews on it, savoring the aftertaste of chaos like candy. Her laughter threads the night and then cracks into something else when she imagines Marcus in those last moments. 

 

She imagines Marcus’s face as the light finds him, the set of his jaw. She imagines his flesh glowing red. The thought is exquisite and private, like a secret she keeps under her tongue. Her hands tremble with it; the sexual satisfaction of seeing these people die. 

 

When the building surrenders, folding heavy and final into its own, Jinx feels a neat, aching calm settle over her. The rain noises mix finely with the screams of their burning flesh. Heat licks her fingers in a way that is almost pleasant, like the memory of a kiss. Like the memory of Caitlyn. She breathes the smoke and the wet city and the metallic tang of victory into her lungs and tastes nothing but accomplishment.

 

She tucks the empty controller into her pocket, planning to destroy it soon enough. She doesn't want any evidence of her deeds, no. And she vanishes back into the forest, leaving behind a fire big enough to alert anyone nearby. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

 

 

The night is quiet, broken only by the low hum of the engine. Caitlyn sits rigid in the passenger seat, her eyes fixed on the safe house lights in the distance. Kenny drives, fingers drumming the wheel, while Grayson leans forward from the back seat, watchful, her presence filling the space with steady authority.

 

Caitlyn opens her mouth to say something—anything to cut the silence—when the world ahead erupts.

 

The explosion rips the night apart, blooming into fire. The safe house doesn’t just collapse—it disintegrates, swallowed in a violent blossom of orange and red. A shockwave punches against the car, rattling the glass. Caitlyn’s hands fly up to shield her face, breath caught in her throat.

 

“Oh my God!—” Kenny gasps, swerving slightly before slamming on the brakes.

 

The three of them sit frozen, staring through the windshield at the inferno devouring what had been, only seconds ago, a safe house for a witness.

 

Grayson’s jaw tightens. "Seven hells.” She whispers, her voice rough, too calm for the horror unfolding in front of them.

 

Caitlyn can’t look away. Smoke climbs like a black pillar into the night sky, blotting out the stars. The rain and smoke mix quite well. Somewhere in that place, Marcus burns. The realization slams into her chest, heavy and suffocating. Her pulse is loud in her ears, her lungs refuse to fill.

 

“No…” The word slips from her lips, raw and trembling.

 

Kenny turns toward her, eyes wide, face pale in the reflection of the fire. “That is Jinx? Jinx did that?”

 

Grayson doesn’t answer right away. She just stares, her hand gripping the back of Caitlyn’s seat, knuckles white. When she does speak, her voice is flat steel. “Yes.”

 

Caitlyn’s whole body trembles. She presses her palm against the window, as though she could reach through the glass, through the miles, and stop the flames from consuming everything.

 

The house collapses in on itself. Caitlyn’s stomach turns, twists, and turns again. Because she knows this isn’t random. This isn’t an accident. Jinx told her what she was going to do, and Caitlyn didn't do anything. 

 

It’s all her fault. 

 

Jinx just murdered Marcus. And Caitlyn remembers her promise. 

 

Oh, fuck. 

 

 

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆