Chapter Text
Caitlyn wasn’t a fool. Her mother had deliberately pulled Vi away while the rest of them had been engaged in the rather intense game of Mahjong. She hadn’t lost a game in over 10 years and yet Isha a child had completely decimated her and her father. It was only after the girl had finished destroying them that Caitlyn had looked up. Eye searching for Vi. But she was nowhere to be seen. Then she noticed the lack of her mother’s presence. She had stood abruptly, startling her father and the girl.
She searched more of the mansion than she would care to admit before finally stopping to think clearly. To consider where her mother would have taken Vi… the answer clear. Her study. She had rather ungracefully power walked towards that side of the house, stopping outside the door to catch her breath and make her distress less obvious.
She was right, Vi and her mother had been sat in front of the roaring fire. A semi-empty bottle of whiskey was on the table between them. Two empty glasses now dirty. How long had they been gone? How many glasses had Vi had? She pushed the thoughts away. Vi had promised not to go down that road again, a promise she had kept. Vi looked pale though even with the warming liquid in her system. The fire caressing her skin.
Her mother had invited her to join them but offered no reason for them being there. Why she had whisked the younger woman away. Caitlyn knew though. She was no fool as she said, her mother had wanted to ask Vi questions about the other world without Caitlyn present. The older woman was too smart to miss the words left unsaid, the pained looks. Caitlyn knew that she knew. She had no doubt Casandra knew that too. Vi’s posture, the heavy look in her mother's eyes. Her mother knew. Vi had told her that she was… dead.
She had expected to feel anger at the fighter for not coming to her first… for telling her mother… everything. But she hadn’t. instead, she felt… relieved. Thankful even. Vi had taken the weight of those questions instead of her. No doubt expecting Caitlyn’s wrath when she found out.
The ways she protects me…
Shaking her head she splashes the water cupped in her hands to her face, the warm liquid helping to push away the uncomfortable conversation she had walked into. It was late now. Past midnight. She and Vi had agreed to stay for the night, her mother ensuring them that she would send word to the Last Drop so as to not make them worry. Vi had spent the rest of the evening distant, reserved. As if stewing on something. Caitlyn had tried to ask more than once if she was ok, but every time was greeted with the same answer.
I’m fine, cupcake… just tired is all
She knew it was a lie. Vi knew that she knew it was a lie and yet she had relented. Decided to give her time. As much as she was itching to keep probing. Turning off the tap she dabs her face dry, hand automatically reaching for her eye patch that lay beside the sink. Her fingers faltered for a moment. Vi had made it clear that she didn’t need to wear it around her, that hadn’t broken her habit of wearing it right up to the moment they would extinguish the light in the room they shared though.
Looking down at it she frowns. It had been custom-made for her of course, but still the fabric. The strings. Irritated her skin. Pulling her eye up she looks at her reflection. The scar was still a harsh pink on her pale skin. The eye below is milky. Unsightly. Sometimes when she first wakes up, she forgets that she lost it. For a few blissful moments, she forgets. Then the darkness on her left side makes its self-known.
She traces the scar with a finger, it’s a little rough but much smoother than it had been when it first healed. Spotting movement behind her she looks at the reflection of Vi leaning in the doorway. Eyes soft as she takes her in. Caitlyn smiles back at her, tilting her head in invitation. One Vi is quick to accept. Strong calloused hands wrap around her waist. Her back leans into Vi’s study frame as she closes her eyes for a moment. Savouring the feel of Vi’s nose pushing through her freshly washed hair.
“You smell good…” Vi whispers into her skin. Voice low and husky. Not so much sexual as just satisfied. She hums softly in reply bringing her hands down to grab the ones holding her in place. That’s when she feels them. The wraps coiled tightly around her arms, so much so that Caitlyn couldn’t even make out a hint of the tattoos below. She had shed her jacket, a stretched-thin white shirt now on show. Hanging low over the dark trousers she wore. They were not a Zaun design nor for Piltover.
She pulled at the bandages idly until Vi looked down at the movement before meeting her gaze in the mirror. A question on her lips. “I’ll leave mine off if you do” She waves a hand towards her bare eye. Vi worries her bottom lip for a moment, making no move to remove the wraps. Caitlyn waits. Doesn’t push. Vi pulls back, creates space as her hands run through her unruly hair in frustration.
“I need them” Vi mutters, her eyes dancing around the room. Landing on anything but her. She turns, leaning her back against the sink behind her. Folding her arms loosely.
“Can you tell me why” She’s careful to keep her posture relaxed, her voice soft. Not wanting to give off the air of annoyance. She wasn’t annoyed. She was worried.
“This place” Vi motions around the room as she begins to pace, Caitlyn gets the sense she’s not talking about the bathroom. Not even the mansion. She meant this world “Every time I think nothings gonna sweep my feet out from under me…” Vi trails off. Caitlyn nods.
“Something does” she finishes for her. Vi stops her pacing, glances at her.
“Fuck… what am I doing. After the day you’ve had. We don’t need to talk about this right now, Cait” It’s a deflection though Caitlyn doesn’t believe it's done knowingly.
“Today has been… hard… and wonderful. But that’s not what we are talking about right now, Vi talk to me… please” Vi’s hands clench and unclench at her sides for a moment as she studies her.
“I told your mom about… everything” Vi’s voice is small. Hesitant. Caitlyn doesn’t react much, simply nods.
“I know” Vi stares at her hard. Trying to find what? Anger?
“You know?” Caitlyn unfolds her arms, smiling a little.
“I’m an excellent detective, Vi” She smirks. Vi shakes her head, eyes confused.
“Why aren’t you pissed right now? Your meant to be pissed” Caitlyn reaches out to her but Vi backs up a step. Great so they were back to this, for not the first time today she wished she could turn back the clock. Return to them curled up in bed together. When Vi had let her hold her tightly as she came down from her high, smooth touches and gentle kisses.
“I thought I would be too… but finding you two in her study… I knew the moment I walked in. It was obvious. Expected really… what was unexpected though was that I was not in fact angry. At either of you. I was… relived” She had to admit she felt a little guilty too though. To add to the weight on Vi’s shoulders “I’m not angry, Vi. I’m thankful, I don’t think I could have handled telling her…” She looks down at the floor for a moment. Shame clawing at her throat. She hears more than sees Vi step forward. A wrapped hand coming up to cup her cheek, lifting her head so their eyes met.
“You're stronger than you give yourself credit for, Cupcake… But I’m glad you didn’t have to tell her” Vi closes the last bit of distance between them, pressing her forehead to her own “I feel bad for not getting your permission… but I don’t regret it” Of course she wouldn’t regret it. That was who Vi was. She was the very definition of baring it so that others didn’t have to. So that Caitlyn didn’t have to.
“Did she… was she… upset?” What a stupid question. Vi lowers her hands to her hips, pulls them flush.
“No… well not about that. She was pretty pissed about your eye though… don’t worry I told her the war-pig is dead” Vi finishes with a small humorless laugh. Caitlyn allows some of her weight to fall forward into Vi’s solid form. She had never felt such an immediate rush of comfort like she does in Vi’s embrace.
“Thank you, Vi… for telling her. For being my anchor today, for being at my side through this and everything else” Vi holds her tighter, hands open across her back as she’s pulled into a welcome hug.
“Always… dirt under your nails remember?” Caitlyn laughs a little her own hands grabbing at Vi’s thin shirt. Taking in the smell of her clean skin.
“I remember… Vi?” She questions, the fighter humming against the fabric of her jumper. “Can we talk about the wraps now? I don’t want to push but… I’m worried” Vi doesn’t pull back this time, instead, she sighs low and heavy before burring her face deeper into her shoulder.
“It’s like armour…” Caitlyn had to strain to hear the words with them coming out so low “Everything’s such a mess, they help me feel like I’m ready for anything that comes my way… they help me feel… safe” Caitlyn pulled her tighter into her body, lips pressing to the side of her head in a soft kiss.
“Do you feel safe with me?” she says gently.
“Yeah… yeah I do” Vi all but sighs out, her body turning a little limp in the embrace. As if weights had been lifted from her body. Caitlyn holds her. Let’s Vi hold her back. Welcomes it.
When after some time Vi pulls back Caitlyn wants to protest, to pull her back in. Or better yet drag her to her childhood bed and hold her close until they both fall asleep. But she doesn’t. Not when she spots Vi slowly unwrapping the bandages. Her tattoos springing free. Caitlyn watches her. Looking for any signs that Vi doesn’t want to do this, that she felt uncomfortable. She doesn’t find any. Finally, the wraps fall to the floor, Vi looks up at her rubbing the marked skin to try and help the indents leave.
“Cait… we need to talk” Caitlyn’s stomach drops, her heart racing. She can do nothing but stare at the shorter woman, waiting for whatever bombshell she is about to drop “I made a decision… about staying” Oh… she can’t help but feel relieved. Annoyed at her own traitorous mind for filling with thoughts of Vi leaving her.
“Ok” she acknowledges, grabbing Vi’s now bare hand to lead her out of the overly bright bathroom. She looks to the bed for a moment before shaking her head, not there. She directs them to the sofas. Lowering gently and waiting for Vi to follow. She does. Though it’s more of a perch. Elbows pushing down on her spread legs. Head hung low.
“I told Powder and Vander that we were gonna go back” Caitlyn doesn’t make a sound, just watches the other woman. The news was not new to her. “We don’t… I don’t belong here. If I stayed, I would just spend the rest of my life waiting for disaster to strike… to lose them all over again” Vi sighs, rubbing her hands together anxiously “But that’s only one part of it… a big part sure but there’s more. Zaun, Piltover… our cities still need us. We’ve seen firsthand what they could be… I can’t turn my back on that” Caitlyn’s eye softens.
“I know” she supplies, voice gentle. Vi nods. But the tension in her body doesn’t leave.
“Yeah, I knew you’d get it… but I was wrong” What? Had she changed her mind? Did Caitlyn want her to change her mind? “I know you said it was my decision. That if I wanted to stay you would too … But Cait this wasn’t just my decision to make” Vi looks at her then, eyes pleading. “We have to make this choice together, I can’t make it for you” Caitlyn slumps back in the chair, eye looking up to the ceiling. Vi was right…
“I’m sorry I made it for the both of us, that was… well pretty fucking dickish of me” That cannot be a real word… “But I’m asking now… what do you want?” She can feel Vi’s eyes on her. The question hanging heavy between them.
What did she want?
She tried to picture a life here. Both of them living in hiding, heavy with the knowledge that they left their world behind. Gave up on all those people… their people. How Vi would get chipped away at… bit by bit every day as the fear of losing her family became more consuming. Watching it slowly destroy the woman she loves. Isha growing up to become the Heir of the Kiramman house. She would never truly be able to be part of the family. All this pain just to see her mother from afar…
If they left… it would take decades of work to create the peace between Zaun and Piltover. She would go back to seeing the cost of her actions… but she would have the chance to repay her debts. Her voice carried so much weight there, she would be committing to a life of servitude to the people. She and Vi would split their time between Zaun and the mansion, work together to make a better future for each city. Spend their days in meetings, fighting to make this dream come true. She would wake up with a purpose in her life… would wake up each morning in Vi’s strong arms. Caitlyn would force Vi to garden with her even though the fighter would complain… but Caitlyn knows she secretly loves it. She would ask her to marry her… maybe a child… grow old with her in a city they helped create.
“I want to go home…” She hadn't meant to say it out loud but now that she had she couldn’t stop the smile from taking over her lips. Lowering her head she finds Vi already staring at her “I want to go home” she says again, reaching out to cup one of Vi’s cheeks.
“You sure?” Vi asks softly, covering her hand with her own.
“Yes, I’m sure” and she was.
Caitlyn had slept little the night before. Choosing instead to watch the slow rise and fall of Vi’s chest as she dreamt. They had talked long into the night, about going back. About what they were leaving behind. Finally, they had agreed that tomorrow morning they would go… they would return to Zaun after breakfast. See Vander and Powder for one last day and then… that would be it.
She casts her eye around the overly large table. Her mother nodded along to whatever her father was saying. Vi smiled brilliantly at Isha as the girl snuck yet another piece of bacon onto her plate. This newest one would be her 8th piece… Vi had tried to tell the child she was full 3 pieces ago but still accepted the meat time and time again. It was all so wonderfully domestic. So much of her time around the fighter had been spent chasing leads, avoiding disasters… war… it had been hard to picture this. But day by day they had been learning to fight in a different way, to take comfort in these moments.
Here and now, it felt like perhaps they really could have this… could have more. Caitlyn could picture the wooden box back in their world. The gift she had made for Vi. For the first time, she allows herself to imagine that just perhaps Vi wouldn’t reject it, see it as nothing more than a way of making her mold into something she wasn’t. She wouldn’t force it on her of course. But she wanted Vi to know that she fit in Caityln’s world. Not Piltover… but her world. Her home. Their home. Her heart.
So, she had it made. Toying with the seal ring on her finger she looked down at it. Fingers tracing the Kiramman crest. Her family crest. Looking up she casts her eye around the table to spot her father’s ring as he held a cup to his lips. Then to her mother's, her hand flat against the surface of the table. When her eye flicked to Vi she looked down at her bare hands. A ring is traditional though highly impractical considering Vi’s style of engagement… so she had requested the ring to come along with a necklace made from Zaun leather. That way she could carry it around her neck leaving her fists free to… be used however she needed.
“Cait…” Vi called softly breaking her from her deep thoughts, startling her a little. She snapped her eye up to the other woman who was sporting a barely concealed smirk… why was she smirking? It hit her then, what she had been caught doing… staring at the fighter's hands… Blushing she looks away quickly, down at her own plate. Her plate that for some reason was piled high with bacon…
“Isha here said that you're too skinny, need to bulk up so you can get muscles like me” Vi playfully laughs out, she looks to the small girl sitting between them. Takes in her rapid nodding before she looks at Caitlyn's arms in… disappointment?
“I see… well Isha, I’ll have you know that the only time Vi and I… fought… I bested her within 3 seconds” Vi looks at her indignantly. Huffing slightly as Isha looks up at her in shock.
“That doesn’t count! You surprised attack me…” Caitlyn smiles big and full, sitting straighter in her chair as she meets her mother's eye. The older woman looking back at her in amusement and pride?
Isha starts tapping Vi’s arm again then moving her hands in sure, fast actions. Vi’s brows furrow as she tries to keep up with the movements but evidently, it’s too fast for her. “Whoa… slow down a little” Isha huffs but starts again.
“She said… How did she manage to beat you?” Casandra interprets.
“Well… this sneaky mongoose” Vi flashes her a teasing look. Honestly… “Jumped me from behind, did some crazy martial arts stuff… knocked me right on my ass!” Her mother clears her throat loudly sending the fighter a pointed look. The message clear. Language. “Err… I mean butt. She knocked me on my butt” Cassandra sighs and shakes her head.
“Isha… time to get ready for school, say goodbye to Caitlyn and Vi” her mother holds up her hand as the girl starts to sign out her protests “No, school is important. Come now, go get ready” Isha deflates before looking back to Vi, her movements slower now.
“I… We have to go back to Zaun after this… sorry Kid” Isha sinks even lower into her chair before nodding and slipping to her feet.
“Dear… perhaps you can help her” Casandra requests but her eyes are fixed on Caitlyn.
“Of course, come along Isha” her father leads the child from the room, leaving the 3 of them sat around the even bigger table. Vi shifts uncomfortably in her seat for a moment before shooting her a concerned look.
“Vi… would you mind gathering our things?” The fighter nods though doesn’t move to stand for a few moments. The unspoken question deafening you going to be, ok? She nods.
When it’s just the two of them left she gets up to take her father’s vacated seat, closing the distance between them. Her mother doesn’t speak right away, instead gazing out the windows to take in the sprawling estate. When she does speak her words are measured. Calculated.
“You have my approval, Caitlyn” She doesn’t need her to elaborate on the words. It was obvious what she meant by them. Vi.
“I would have stayed with her regardless… but I am glad to have it all the same” Casandra smiles slightly, nodding her understanding.
“She is… well I am not sure what words would best describe her” Her mother trails off. Caitlyn knew though. Beautiful. Charming. Strong. Protective. Incredible. Unexpected… “She seems so strong” Caitlyn nods, but a frown crosses her lips “But she’s not… at least not all of the time, is she?” Caitlyn doesn’t answer “Behind all that bravado I can see it… her heart has been broken many times” Casandra looks at her then, eyes piercing.
“It has… by so many people… by me” Casandra studies her for a long moment before finally sighing and reaching out to rest her fingers over her closed fist. When had she done that?
“It’s a painful part of human nature, isn’t it? That we often hurt those we love the most… with our words. Our actions” Caitlyn clenches her jaw, eyes adverted “But you do don’t you. Love her I mean” Her mother presses.
“More than I’ve ever loved anything or anyone” She’s surprised by the strength of her own voice. Even as her chest tightens and her throat dries.
“Then don’t push her away. Don’t let her go… people like that are rare to find. Love like that… well… it makes every tough decision… Every sleepless night worth it” Casandra pulls her hand back, fingers tracing her wedding band as she smiles softly.
“I want to give her our family name” She blurts out. Her eye wide as she realises what she just said. Her mother looks back at her, she had expected shock or disapproval but instead, they are full of understanding.
“I see, and yet you haven’t yet am I right?” Caitlyn nods “Why?” how could she explain this…
“Vi is from Zaun… our Zaun not this one, things are different there. The animosity… it runs deep. I worry she will see it as a betrayal of her people, her home. That she will think that I want her to change” Caitlyn feels like a weight has lifted from her shoulders as she lets to words flow. She hadn’t realized the weight of carrying them alone for so long.
“Zaunite’s don’t have surnames here, I assume that’s the same where you are from. I would recommend caution though… Vi from my limited time with her seems like someone who struggles with her self-worth… with feeling as if she doesn’t belong” Her mother was right as usual…
“So, I shouldn’t ask her?” Casandra sighed as if Caitlyn had missed the point of her words completely.
“Caitlyn, I didn’t say that. All I mean is that she needs to feel worthy. Not of the name… but of belonging. Of having a home. A family” It wasn’t about the name… how had she not realized that? It had never been her name that was the issue, well not anymore at least. It was Vi not feeling like she was allowed to feel wanted, needed. For her whole life, she had filled the role of protector, never allowing herself to just be… her. To be more than just a weapon or shield.
“Marriage is a long road, Caitlyn. It doesn’t end with an exchanging of vows, it’s not a goal but a journey” Wait. Marriage? Who said anything about marriage?
“I never said anything about Marriage!” she exclaims. Heart racing in her chest. would Vi want that? Caitlyn wasn’t even sure she could convince Vi to accept the privilege and power that came with being affiliated with the Kiramman name let alone becoming her wife.
“Are you sure?” her mother prompts. Was she? Would she want that? Yes. Yes, she would… but what if it blew up in face? What if it pushed Vi away?
“What if… what if she doesn’t want that? Want me…” she's never heard her own voice so small before. So unsure. So… full of doubt.
“That woman would die for you, Caitlyn. It’s plain to see that she would move mountains, rage wars, fight for you. Perhaps she’s not the only one who struggles with seeing her own worth” Caitlyn hangs her head low. Tears falling into her lap as she feels the words wash into her bones. The painful truth of them. Of her own insecurities. Neither of them it seemed were as strong as they let others think, in truth the only time she truly felt strong was at Vi’s side.
“I wish you were alive…” the whispered words come out broken. Her mother is on her feet a second later, crossing the small space between them to hold her. She allows herself to fall apart. To cling to the woman. Feel her hold in a way no one else could give her. A mother's embrace.
Caitlyn met Vi on the steps leading towards the Kiramman estate, her mother's soft steps behind her. They had talked more once her tears had finally dried up. It was hard but she explained her choice to the older woman. Why they couldn’t stay. Why they wouldn’t be coming back. Her mother had cried too then, the understanding that this would be the last time she would see her daughter.
Vi reaches out for her hand squeezing it tightly as she takes in the sombre expression on her face. She squeezes back. A small thanks for the physical support. It was still a wonder to her sometimes how they could have full conversations with a small touch here, a graze there. Vi had always been able to understand her when so few had, she liked to think it was a gift she returned.
“Vi, I trust that I can leave my daughter in your capable hands?” Her mother stops at her side, posture firm but eyes soft. Vi stands taller at the words. Chin held high.
“Yes, Ma’am” She sounded like all those white knights Caitlyn used to read about when she was growing up… though she had always pictured them as women secretly.
“Good… Caitlyn tells me you plan to leave tomorrow morning” Vi flicks her eyes to her for a moment before nodding. Face falling slightly. “Would your father be open to having a few more guests to attend to?” Caitlyn whips around to stare at the older woman. Eye wide.
“Mother…” Casandra waves her off.
“It will be difficult no doubt but… please allow me this. Your father and Isha too… we never got the chance to say goodbye before” Caitlyn looks to Vi again, eye questioning.
“The last drop… 8 am” Vi responds. Casandra nods before pulling her mask back in place as Tobias and Isha come to join them on the steps.
“Well, tomorrow then. Please give Vander my well wishes”
Vi worried her bottom lip, glancing at the silent enforcer beside her for the 10th time in as many minutes. Caitlyn hadn’t said a word since they left the Kiramman mansion. Her eye fixed ahead as they made their way back to the last drop. Vi could hear her mind racing though. The reality of what tomorrow would bring. Slipping her hand into the taller woman’s she pulls her attention to her.
“Feels fucking stupid to ask this… but I’m gonna anyway. You, ok?” Caitlyn looks away for a long moment. Their pace not faltering. When she finally does look back at her… her face is heavy. But her eye was clear from the haze that had taken over it for the last 20 minutes.
“Honestly… no. But I stand by my decision… our decision. It just… hurts” Vi nods. Moving a little closer so that their shoulders brush on every other step.
“Do you regret seeing her?” Vi had asked herself this same question weeks ago. Did she regret seeing Vander knowing that she was going to have to lose him all over again? For her the answer was clear. No. it was worth the pain she now felt in her heart.
“No… not at all. I just wish… I wish it didn’t have to be goodbye forever” Vi nods. Pausing her steps as the last drop came into view, pulling Caitlyn into a small alcove so she could bring their foreheads together.
“You're not alone, ok? You don’t have to carry the pain alone, I’m here… I’ll always be here” Caitlyn sags a little before leaning down to ghost her lips across hers. The kiss is so soft it's barely there at all.
“That goes both ways you know… It’s not just you anymore. It won’t be ever again” Vi can feel the weight of the ring box in her pocket. Would Cait really want this? Want her? To tie herself to someone like Vi? “Come on… I’m sure Vander and Powder are pacing the floors waiting for us to return” Caitlyn smiles. A real smile. It may be small but it’s there.
The day had passed in a blur. Caitlyn had been correct in her assumption that Vander and Powder had been pissed about them up and running off the day before… well mainly Powder. She understood why. Her sister had been scared. How she thought Vi would leave without so much as a goodbye was beyond her but she guesses that fears don’t really rely on logic.
Ekko had shown his face briefly though seemed distracted. After an hour of staring into space, he had mumbled some excuse about needing to check on something and all but ran from the bar. It was late now, the bar closed for the second day in a row. Vander was pouring yet another round of drinks as Powder talked animatedly about some new invention she was creating. Vi’s back pressed against the solid wall in a booth with Caitlyn’s back flush against her front. Her head rested on her shoulder as her hand stroked small patterns over the skin of her arm.
Cait seemed… different around Powder. When she had questioned it, the taller woman simply said We talked… I’m trying that was more than Vi could ask for. Powder rambled on and she let her mind wander… maybe she could build a bar when they got back? After this whole Zaun mess was resolved, of course, it wouldn’t be the last drop, but it would be hers. Get a place near the bridge. A middle ground for Pilti’s and Zaunite’s alike. A safe space for the two people to mingle, find out they had more in common than differences. She wouldn’t have believed that herself until Caitlyn. That it could be possible…
“What has you thinking so hard?” Cait’s soft voice brushed against her neck as she turned to look up at her. Smiling down she shook her head.
“Just something stupid” she threw back. Because it was stupid. To hope. To dream. When would she learn…
“Tell me…” Caitlyn pressed. Sighing she looked around the bar once more, Vander shaking his head as Powder tried to convince him to make her drink a double.
“It’s silly… I was just thinking… when we get back, maybe I could… nah forget it” She looked away. Cait’s hand came to cup her cheek drawing her back.
“Try me” Her touch. Her soft words. Her loving looks. Urgh… she made hope so much easier to come by.
“Maybe I could open a bar… just like this. By the bridge… all are welcome. Practice what we preach and all that… it’s stupid I know I just…” Caitlyn cuts her off. Pulling her into a hard, short kiss.
“I love that idea. What would we call it?” Wait. We?
“We? You would want to do it with me?” Caitlyn rolls her eyes playfully. Pressing herself deeper into Vi’s hold.
“Of course, I would… I would still have my duties to perform as the head of my house… and being Commander. But I think I can manage a third job… especially if I get to do it with you” Vi stares at her in disbelief. She was being serious. She really meant it, that she would want to do this with her. “Hmm… how about Oil and Water?” Caitlyn murmurs out. Eyes amused. “For the name, I mean” Vi laughs deeply. “Even oil and water meet somewhere in the middle…”
“Perfect” She whispers against her hair before laying a kiss there. The sound of Powder clearing her throat loudly pulls them from the moment. Vi takes in the mock disgusted look on her baby sister's face before rolling her eyes and motioning for her to sit.
Vander joins them after a moment. Powder resting her head against the plain of his upper arm. Vi watches them for a moment while they talk with Caitlyn. This is the cost of going back… for not the first time she wonders if they could find a way to make more Hex orbs. Their creation had been made illegal not long after the war, and Jayce was gone… Jinx could probably figure it out.
Her sister's face flashes through her mind. That last look she gave her before falling… not Jinx. Not Powder. A blend of the two, a balance. What would her sister do if she found out about this world? Would she want to come here? Most likely… but this world already had a Powder. No… Jinx couldn’t come here.
“Urgh you two are gross… all loved up” Powder grumbles sticking out her tongue as she says it. Vi goes to tell her where she can stick it only to be stopped when Caitlyn retorts.
“You say that as if you and Ekko aren't stealing looks at each other whenever you're both in the same room” Vi snaps her head to look at the enforcer, mouth open. Eyes wide. Cait smirks as she lets the words sink in. Ekko and Powder? What the…
“EKKO!?” She practically screams looking at her sister's reddening cheeks. “Oh, that little… when I get my fucking hands on him” Vander gruffs in agreement. Powder shifts uncomfortably and adverts her eyes but doesn’t back down.
“It was one time… everyone just chill out” One time… as in… oh he’s fucking dead. “We only kissed! Put your fists away fat hands” Vi hadn’t even realized that she was on her feet her hands curled tightly until Cait dragged her back down to sit.
“When?” she grits out.
“When he was here last time…” Oh… oh. Well fuck…
“Sorry…” she mutters her anger dissipating. Well, that sucked, she fell for their world’s Ekko not her own.
“Can we talk about something else please” Powder groans, hands wrapping tightly around her mug. Vi can't help but stare at her, really take her in. She had spent 6 long years in Stillwater trying to picture the woman she would grow into. Her dreams had never done her justice… nor had her nightmares. But she got to see both sides of the coin now.
“Vander… I hope it’s not too much trouble, but my parents have asked if they can be here tomorrow when we leave” Caitlyn changes the topic masterfully. Vi lets their conversation drone on without her. Content to just sit in a sea of noise as she takes in this moment.
When Vi wakes the next morning. Cait’s face is nuzzled against her neck, breathing low and steady… she forgets for one perfect moment. Forgets that this is the last time she will wake up on this small bunk bed. Forgets that today she will walk away from everything she had been pinning for since she was 15 years old… until Caitlyn of course. The constant low rumble of the furnace a lullaby. The slated wood above her carved with monsters, her name. Powders name.
But then the knowledge seeps back in. The reality of this morning hits her hard, turning her head to the side she takes in the form of the sleeping woman beside her. When she had first met Cait she always had this softness to her face, lips slightly parted. Face soft. But since her mother… her lines had become sharper. Her jaw was constantly clenched. She’s regained some of that softness in the last few months but not fully. Vi doubts she ever will. It’s more than scars that stay with us when you live through what they had.
There were so many scars now. Some you could see… others hidden inside. In Zaun they don’t hide their scars, they wear them like badges of honor. A visual show of strength. She had grown up believing that. Following the teachings that they didn’t kill you, so they made you stronger. But that’s not how she feels anymore. She wasn’t ashamed of them or proud of them. They just were. Like her tattoos, they told a story. Of pain, of loss. Victory and defeat. An intricate map of her life till now.
Caitlyn’s face carried scars just like her own. Her own map. Her own journey. There would be more no doubt for both of them but that was ok. The taller woman stirred slightly, her brow furrowing as she became steadily more aware. When finally, her eyes blinked open Vi was there to meet her, eyes gentle. Smile soft. Caitlyn stared up at her, expression unguarded. Only months ago, she had told herself to let go of hope for this. Yes, the kisses and touches but mainly just this. The openness that had started to grow between them. This woman was the only person in her life she had never truly felt like she had to hide from.
When that had gone… it broke her. Her waking hours filled with flashes of the other woman. Her understanding looks. Her acceptance. It had been her only comfort… and her largest pain. But here they were. Somehow, they had found each other again, regardless of how much the world tried to force them apart. It would have been so easy to just give up… to walk away. Hell, she had tired to.
“Good morning…” Caitlyn’s voice is husked by sleep. Her body warm against her own, fingers tracing small patterns on her stomach where her hand lay.
“Morning…” Vi wondered when she would stop worrying that each morning waking up like this could be her last, that something would pull them apart again. If she even could let go of that fear.
“Wish we could just stay like this” Cait nuzzles in deeper, eyes falling shut again as she brushes her nose against the collum of Vi’s neck. Breathing her in. She pulls the taller woman closer, her cheek resting against her head. Funny how people wish time to stop and yet hurry the fuck up.
“Mmm…” she hums. Her ears picked up on sounds above, Vander’s deep voice pushing through the gaps in the floorboards. Powders higher pitched replies. Time waits for no one…
They dress silently, Vi shoving the small trinkets she had acquired in her time in this world inside. A photo of her, Powder, Mylo, Claggor and Vander. Another one of her parents with their two children. A tattoo design Powder had drawn for her. Some shirts and pants that she had to admit though not her usual style she did kind of like. She could feel Cait watching her. Careful not to show what was in her hand she pushed the small ring box into the bottom of the bag, missing the weight of it in her pocket.
“Ready?” Cait asks as she closes the bag, slinging it over her shoulder. She looks around the room one last time. Trying to take in every minute detail.
“No… but it’s time” Caitlyn nods in understanding. Holding out a hand for her. She takes it immediately, allows herself to be led out of the room. Pausing at the doorway for one last look before flicking off the light. Closing the door softly before laying her palm flat against the wood. Eyes closed she leans her head against it.
Goodbye… and thank you. For being the only safe place in my world…
She pulls back. Looking to Caitlyn. She doesn’t need to explain, the taller woman already knows. Already understands. “Let’s go home” She whispers out, cupping Cait’s cheek. Relishing in the small push against her palm.
When they get upstairs Vander and Powder are already filling mugs with tea and coffee, they are quiet each looking pensive. The air in the room was heavy. This was going to fucking suck… Caitlyn pulls her forward. Muttering a small, good morning before handing Vi the mug of black coffee. The bitter liquid sits heavy in her stomach.
When the door opens, they all turn to look as Ekko wanders in… he looks… tired. A bag slung over his shoulder as he takes them all in. When his eyes land on Powder… his look is… suspicious. What the hell was that about?
“Is there coffee?” Ekko asks as he finally pulls his eyes from Powder, Vander nods turning to fill another mug. Ekko crosses the space, letting his bag fall to the ground as he pulls himself into a seat. Taking the mug with a small thanks.
“Long night?” Vander enquires his eyes dating to her own in concern. Vi shakes her head, she’s just as confused as him.
“Yeah…” he takes a long gulp of the hot liquid before turning to Powder “We need to talk” Powder nods before setting her own cup down and motioning to the roof. Her steps heavy as she makes for the stairs, Ekko follows slowly behind her. Vi makes to follow too. Brows furrowed. Only for a hand to halt her steps, looking back she sees Caitlyn shaking her head.
“Let them go…” Vi wants to argue. To insist. But she doesn’t, Hands gripping the mug tighter as the door once again opens. The Kiramman’s walk in… well Tobias and Cassandra do… Isha is running full pelt towards her. She just has enough time to put her mug down before the small girl throws her body against her.
Laughing she scoops her up before throwing her into the air once “Hey kid… good to see ya too” Isha now safely back on the ground signs quickly I brought you a present! Smiling Vi kneels. Isha reaches into her bag to pull out the same cuddly toy monkey they had been playing with. Thrusting it in her direction.
“For me? You sure?” Isha nods happily. Pushing to toy against her chest. Her hands shake slightly as she accepts it, she stares at it for a moment before pulling the girl into another hug. “Thank you… I love it. I promise to take good care of him, ok” Isha sags into her hold. Her hands gripping the fabric of her Jacket.
“Vander, I hope you are well” Casandra says as they break apart. She lifts Isha up to plop her down on one of the bar stools. Caitlyn’s hand on her back as she smiles softly at her.
“Can’t complain… good to see you again Tobias” The two men shake hands “And look at you Isha… you’ve grown” The girl beams up at him before pointing to her and lifting her arms as if to show off her muscles. They all laugh at the easy comedy.
“Mother, father” Caitlyn steps away to go greet her parents before leading them to a booth. Vi leaves them to it, desperate to stay with her own dad for as long as possible.
Ekko comes to stand at the edge of the roof, his eyes taking in Zaun below. Still the best view in both cities. Powder comes to join him. Sighing he closes his eyes for a moment. Stealing himself for what was about to come.
“Spent all last night going through Jayce Talis’s apartment… then his workshop… his mothers house” He can feel Powder’s eyes on him. “Know what I found?” Finally, he opens his eyes to look at her. She shakes her head but keeps her eyes on the ground. “Nothing” He looks away again, squinting as a ray of sunshine brushes over his face.
He had done the maths. There was only two possible ways Powder had managed to come to his world. One… Jayce was still creating Hex orbs even after getting out of Stillwater. Two… Powder had taken his prototype orbs from the apartment that day when Vi died…
“Absolutely nothing… no Hex tech… no orbs… not even his old notes” Powder shifts uncomfortably beside him “So that only left one explanation… when I was here last I had to recover the smallest shards from that apartment to make my device. The one you have take’s two full ones for each jump… which means you kept the ones you found all those years ago” Powder kicks a small piece of rubble at her feet before huffing and turning away.
“What do you want, Ekko?” he turns to look at her. She knows exactly what he wants… what he needs.
“You can’t keep them… I need to take them back with me, they are too dangerous to leave here” Powder spins. Her face angry as she jabs a finger in his chest.
“So that’s why you came back? To get your hands on the one thing that will let me keep seeing my sister! Fuck you Ekko… I’m not giving you shit” He had expected this.
“No, I came here because you abducted Vi in the middle of the night. I came back because she had the right to choose if she wanted to stay or not. I came back because it was killing Caitlyn… I came back because I care about you!” She faulters for a moment. Hand dropping to the small pouch tied around her waist.
“Don’t make me do this…” He hates how broken her voice sounds. “Don’t make me lose her again… without them I’ll never see her again” He wishes he could… he really wishes he could walk away from this. Let her keep them.
“Hex tech stole Zaun's future in my world… you’ve been there. You’ve seen it… I can’t risk that happening here” Powder opens her mouth to protest “It’s not you that I don’t trust… it’s everyone else. The power this would give them… I won’t take them from you.” She stares at him, eyes wide for a moment “I’m not demanding them… I’m asking. I’m begging you to trust me”
For a long time no one speaks. Powder paces the space in front of him, he gives her the time. Knows what he’s asking. When finally, the girl stops to look at him his shoulders sag in relief. With one trembling hand she reaches down unclipping the pouch, holding it out to him. He takes them slowly. Curling the bag into his fist before pulling her close.
“I wish things were different…” He whispers against her hair. She holds him back, hands tight in his shirt as she cries softly.
“Me too…”
Time ticks by heavy. Delaying the moment as much as possible. She talks, laughs. Drinks. Plays with Isha. Every now and then looking over her shoulder to check that Cait is ok. When finally, the sound of footsteps sound on the stairs all eyes look up to see Powder coming down. Her eyes red-rimmed. She had been crying. Ekko’s only a few steps behind her, his own eyes red. Fuck…
“Oh… who’s the kid?” Powder asks as she reaches the last step, her smile forced.
“This is Isha, she’s from Zaun. The Kiramman’s adopted daughter” Powder nods, smile slightly more real “Isha… this is my little sister Powder. I think you two would get on really well…” Powder hops into the seat beside the girl. Smile big and no longer forced.
“Hey Kid! Ya, thirsty?” Isha nods happily watching Powder reach over the bar to grab a cup of juice. Vi watches them. Smiling sadly. When Isha reaches out a hand to play with a strand of Powder's hair her sister smirks “Think you’d look pretty cool with blue hair too” Isha practically bounces in her seat.
“Darling…” Cait’s voice breaks her out of her staring. Turning to look at her she sees the sympathetic look on her features “It’s time…” Vi tenses. Looks around the room taking in everyone who was slowly starting to gather close. It was time.
“Yeah… yeah I know” hopping to her feet she grabs her bag, pushing the small monkey inside. Vander is next to her a second later. His large hand on her shoulder, eyes wet.
“Not gonna say goodbye… already never thought I would see you again. Shows you what I know… so instead let’s just say… I’ll see you soon” Vi nods. Not trusting her own voice for a moment as her dad pulls her in for a bruising hug. She grips him back just as hard.
“Take care of Powder for me, yeah? And Cait’s folks…” he nods squeezing her tighter “Never got to say it before but… thank you. For taking me in, raising me… giving me a home. I love you… dad” When they pull back Vander wipes his eyes quickly, but she sees them. The tears. No doubt her own are trailing down her cheeks.
“Remember what I said… I’m proud of you. I love you” As soon as he steps back Powder's slim body slams into her own. Sobs falling from her mouth freely.
“You and me, Vi… its always gonna be you and me” Vi holds her close, nose pushing into her hair.
“Yeah… you and me” she sees Caitlyn over Powders shoulder. Her eye wet. She holds her sister tighter “Always with you, sis…” she parrots Jinx’s words. When they break apart Vi wants to scream that she’s changed her mind. That she was wrong. That they could make it work, that they could stay. But she doesn’t.
She watches Caitlyn bend down to give Isha a small hug before ruffling her hair, the girl is crying. When Cait stands, she pulls her father close, whispering something in his ear as he holds her tighter. When she reaches her mother, she all but falls into her arms, her body shaking as she weeps. Vi wants to look away but she can’t… she won’t.
“Caitlyn, oh my Caitlyn… remember what I told you. And know that though you may not be able to see me, I shall always be at your side” Cait nods harshly, giving her mother one last tight squeeze before stepping back on shaky legs.
“I love you, mum” Casandra cups her daughter’s cheek. Her eyes darting to Vi for a moment. The unspoken words reached her as if shouted Keep her safe. She will die before letting any harm come to the marksman.
Caitlyn comes to take her hand. Ekko holds out his own on her other side. She has to physically force her body to take it. Her eyes are glassy as she takes in their family around them. Powder holding a crying, Isha. Vander with one hand on Powder's shoulder and the other on Casandra’s. Tobias holding his wife's hand…
The white light surrounds them. The air stills. She can’t move. Can’t blink. Determined to keep her eyes on all of them right up to the last…
The sight of her family is gone.
They are back in the Kiramman mansion. In Caitlyn’s office. The room cold, no fire roaring. No family smiling back at her through their shared tears. She feels Ekko’s hand slip from her own. Cait’s shaking in her hand as her body trembles. It was over… it was really over. Her free hand comes up to clutch at her chest, the pain there unbearable.
V-Vi…” Caitlyn’s voice comes out broken, she turns towards her and the pain in her chest intensifies. The taller woman can barely stand, her hand ripping the eye patch from her face as the tears stream down her cheeks. Vi grabs for her. Pulls her hard against her body, whispering small words of comfort though even she can’t tell what they are.
The sound of the door opening and closing is the only sign that Ekko has removed himself from the agonizing scene. Cait’s legs finally give out, Vi lowers them to the ground as slowly as she can. Holding the other woman as close as possible. She blinks rapidly as her eyes dart around the room. Only now noticing that she is in fact not crying… the pain in her chest is gone. Even stranger still she feels… nothing. No sadness. No anger. Just nothing… all she can focus on is helping Caitlyn.
Silently she scoops the taller woman up, bridal style. Caitlyn doesn’t protest. With sure, solid steps she carries the crying woman out of the office. Staff startled as she stalks down the hall with the heir in her arms. She doesn’t say a word. Doesn’t look at them. Just puts one step in front of the other. The only thought in her brain Take her somewhere safe. Keep her safe.
Caitlyn had fallen apart. Completely lost all her self-control. She had promised herself that when they returned, she would be there for Vi. To comfort her. To be strong enough for both of them… and she had fallen apart. The journey to their room is a blur, all she remembers is Vi’s strong arms lifting her into the air. Her body compliant as the fighter carried her here.
Vi had then taken her to the bathroom, walking them both into the shower. Turning it on as it soaked both of them clothes and all. Vi’s back slid down the wall with her still in her arms. The water falling over them while Caitlyn sobbed. And sobbed. Her wet hand gripping the soaked shirt stuck to Vi’s chest. Sure hands holding her tightly.
She couldn’t say how long they sat there, water beating down on them. At some point the tears stopped coming, the exhaustion from her breakdown sucking the strength from her body. Silently Vi had reached up to turn off the water before once again lifting her into her arms. Water dripping off their drenched bodies she walked them out of the cubical. Hand slow and steady as she first stripped herself then Caitlyn. Robed her in her usual purple silk. Before wrapping a towel around her own lower half.
At this point she gathered some of her senses, mouth opening to say… something. But nothing came. Her eye taking in Vi as the woman tied a knot in the front of Caitlyn’s robe. Her eyes so focused. Caitlyn couldn’t see her own pain reflected back in those steely eyes. Before she could try and speak again Vi was guiding her towards their bed. Sheets pulled back Vi got in first before reaching out to her, she went willingly. Falling back into her Vi’s warm body.
At some point sleep claimed her. By the time she came to again the sun was setting, the sheets beside her were empty. Cold. Sighing she sat up, searching the room for the fighter. Nothing. Worried she dressed quickly, frustrated when she couldn’t find her eye patch. Clenching her jaw, she rushed into the bathroom to find a spare, she had expected to be met with their wet clothes, but the floors were empty… dry. Had Vi slept at all? Grabbing the patch, she secured it in place with practiced ease.
She tried her study first, it seemed like the most logical place. Empty. Though the fire was now lit… the staff no doubt made aware of their return. Room after room she checked and nothing. With each empty space, she became more and more distressed. Where would Vi go? She was in pain. Heartbroken. Hurting… the image of Vi from all those months ago. Her Pit fighter days as she refers to them… she wouldn’t would she? Spinning she begins to rush towards her room, she would need to get her gear if she was going into Zaun.
Rounding a corner she nearly collides with Nikka one of her house staff, the poor woman gasping out in surprise as Caitlyn manages to stop herself inches from the other woman. “Miss Caitlyn… oh my you gave me quite the scare, Ma’am” the woman exclaims.
“Nikka… my apologies I was in a rush” Nodding Caitlyn makes to move around the recovering woman. She only makes it 3 steps before the other woman is calling after her.
“Are you feeling better, Ma’am?” What? Halting she turns to face the older woman.
“Feeling better? Who said I was unwell?” Nikka’s brows lower in a frown as she takes in Caitlyn's face.
“Miss Vi informed us this morning that you were feeling unwell and were not to be disturbed. No exceptions” Caitlyn rushes closer eye frantic as she addresses the staff member.
“Vi… is she still here? Did she leave?” Nikka takes a step back in the face of such panic.
“Y-Yes Miss… she’s in the gym” Caitlyn is turning rushing away before she has even finished offering her thanks. Of course, she was in the gym. She mentally kicks herself more than once as she runs down towards the basement level, she can only imagine the state Vi will be in by the time she gets to her. Knuckles cut and bruised no doubt.
She moves quickly down the last set of stairs; she can hear Vi’s solid hits against the punching bag already. But that’s not all… voices. One clearly Vi’s and the other…
“Vi… you have to stop” Ekko?
“Look little man I am more than aware of what my body can take… I need this, ok? I need… to feel something” Caitlyn stops just outside the ajar door, peering inside. Vi is right where she imagined. Dressed in a damp sports bra, her workout trousers hanging low on her hips as she throws punch after punch at the bag. Her body glistening in sweat. Ekko leaning against the wall to the left of the battered bag.
“You could always try what other people do… you know… talk about it” Ekko glances at Vi his face neutral but Caitlyn can see the concern in his eyes from here.
“You want me to talk, fine. How about we talk about the fact that you kissed my little sister?” Vi snaps back as she delivers another blow. Caitlyn sighs softly looking down for a moment. When she looks up Ekko is looking at anything but the fighter. She can’t blame him “What don’t wanna talk now? Funny…” Vi gives the bag one last punch before turning away, dropping to the floor to start push-ups.
“She told you…” Vi pauses mid-extend. Growling slightly before dipping low again. “You know we aren’t kids anymore right…” Vi doesn’t respond just keeps her up-and-down motions. Caitlyn knows she should step in. Stop this before it can get out of hand. For everyone's sake. “Not that you need to worry about that anymore… she’s there and I’m here” Vi grunts loudly increasing her speed as she lifts one arm up to wrap it around her back. If it were under different circumstances Caitlyn would be enjoying the show of strength… very much. But it’s not.
“You're right...” Up “She’s there…” Down “You’re here…” Up “She’s there and I’m here…” Down “Cait’s here…” Up “And her mom is there…” Down. Vi hangs her head low, pressing her forehead to the matted floor. She doesn’t push up again. Holding her body in a sort of plank, muscles shaking with effort.
“Vi… you don’t have to carry this…” Ekko pushes off the wall, taking a tentative step towards the prone woman. At once Vi is springing to her feet, rushing forward to get in the younger man's face.
“No? Then who the fuck will!?” Her voice so full of anger that Ekko takes a step back. Vi follows “You? Nah I don’t think so… not your style. Do you have any idea what it was like? Being left to rot in the prison after I lost everyone… getting beaten every day by the guards because I wouldn’t break… no you don’t. How would you?” Ekko keeps retreating even as Vi presses closer “Since the moment my parents died all I've done is carry everyone else! You. Powder. Claggor. Mylo… you have no idea what it’s like to carry the weight of a family…” Ekko’s back finally meets the wall again, his eyes wide. Scared. Vi punches the wall beside his head, locking him in place “You have no idea what I have to carry! My family is gone! I turned my sister into a monster! Turned against my own people! Got Caitlyn’s mom killed! That’s all on me… all of it! So don’t you dare stand there and lecture me about what I have to carry!” Vi is panting. Her fist pushing harder against the wall.
“V-Vi…” Ekko starts. Caitlyn pushes the door open loudly. Arms crossed over her chest. Ekko’s eyes snap to her at once. Pleading. Vi meets her eye over her shoulder, fist finally slipping from the wall to hang loosely at her side.
“Ekko… out. Now” her voice leaves no room for arguments. Not that the man tries, his feet unsteady as he rushes away from the fighter pausing when he reaches her side.
“Thanks…” Caitlyn doesn’t look at him. Keeps her eye squarely on Vi as the shorter woman finally looks away. Back at the wall. Ekko doesn’t wait for her reply simply slipping out of the room. Turning she sighs as she pushes the door shut, locking it for good measure.
Vi hasn’t moved a muscle. Her shoulders rising and falling as she sucks in deep breaths. Caitlyn approaches slowly. Careful to keep her body loose. When she’s in reaching distance, she stops behind the younger woman. Watching her carefully. She knows Vi won’t hurt her, of course she wouldn’t but she doesn’t want the fighter to feel trapped.
“Your awake…” Vi’s voice is softer than she had expected it to be. The anger from before gone from her tone.
“I am. I was worried when I awoke alone” Vi’s back tenses slightly but she still doesn’t turn around.
“Sorry I… I needed to let off some steam” Caitlyn does look away then, her eye scanning the punching bag. Sure enough, there are splotches of blood staining the beige material. Eye flicking to the fighter’s wrapped hands she sees the sister marks there.
“Your bleeding” She mutters before walking away. Over to the small wash area built into the room, running a white towel under the spray of water. She feels more than hears Vi moving to stand behind her. turning off the tap she rings out the soaked fabric, turning to face the shorter woman. Vi is already unwrapping her hands… well that’s one less fight she supposes.
Slowly she steps forward taking one wrist between her fingers so she can brush the wet towel over the fresh wounds “I wish you wouldn’t do this” the white towel instantly taking on a red tint “It’s like a punch to the stomach every time I find you like this” one hand clean she lowers it gently before picking up the other giving it the same treatment.
“I know… you shouldn’t have to see me like this. I should be stronger… more in control” Vi whispers back. Caitlyn sighs deeply letting go of the hand as she looks up.
“I never asked you to be stronger. What I want, Vi. Is for you to come to me when it gets too much, not take it out on your own body” Vi stares at her for a long moment. Eyes full of shame.
“I… I don’t know how to do that, Cait” No, of course she didn’t. How could she? 8 months of time with her doesn’t erase years of her having to deal with it the only way she could.
“I know… but you're not in Stillwater anymore. You're not alone, I’m here… let me be here” Vi nods though keeps her eyes adverted. Caitlyn reaches up to cup her sweat-dampened cheek “Look at me…” it takes a moment, but finally grey eyes meet her own “Your not alone… not anymore” Vi bites her bottom lip. Nodding vi drops her head to rest it against Caitlyn’s shoulder.
“I feel… wrong” confused her brows furrow as she wraps her arms lightly around the fighter “When we got back… I just kinda shut down. All that mattered was taking care of you…” Sighing she pulls the shorter woman closer. “You fell asleep and it… it started to come back. I thought I would be sad but… I’m just so fucking angry” Vi’s words come through gritted teeth “This rage… it’s eating me up inside” Caitlyn drops the towel. Her now empty hand coming up to lose itself in Vi’s hair. Nails grazing her scalp.
“I’m sorry… I should have been there for you too” Vi shakes her head against the shoulder she’s still pressing into “This… Us… it’s not about one of us always carrying the other. When I fall apart, you’re there to catch me. Let me be there for you when you need the same” Vi’s body starts to shake slightly in her hold “You don’t need to be strong right now… it’s ok to fall apart… it’s ok to let me carry this for a moment” Vi falls to her knees as she lets out a choked sob. Caitlyn follows her down. Holding her the whole way.
“Cait I… fuck…” Caitlyn pulls her in as close as possible, lips brushing against her hairline as Vi finally let’s go. Her body overcome with shaking wails. Tears soaking into the fabric of her shirt. “It’s not fair…” Vi gasps out as she cries harder.
“It’s not” Caitlyn whispers back. Arms sure around the shaking body.
“It hurts… I hurt” Vi sobs into her shoulder.
“I know… I know it does. I’m here Vi… I’m right here. I always be right here, with you. Always” Something breaks inside Vi she can almost feel it. Her walls breaking down. Caitlyn has never seen someone cry like this before. It takes over every inch of the fighter. Its uncontrollable. “I have you, Vi. I have you…” She can only hold the broken woman. Make it safe for her to let go. To fall apart.