it’s just so easy when the whole world fits inside of your arms
(do we really need to pay attention to the alarms?)

— — — — — — 

five times that Vi blends in with a comfortable crowd of maroon and gold
(and one time she tries on blue and silver in the warmth of amber lights)

— — — — — — 

Quidditch commentary audio record: 

note: OCTOBER 2th, 7:00 PM - GRYFFINDOR V. RAVENCLAW

“Alright, we’ve got all the usual starters on our lineup today, but let’s introduce the new Ravenclaw seeker and Captain, Caitlyn Kiramman! If you don’t already know who she is, she’s our Head Girl— the one right there, on that Firebolt, you see? Yeah, man, look at her go! I might be a bit biased, but we’re going to crush Gryffindor, I know it. Professor Heimerdinger, how much d’you want to bet that Ravenclaw wins the Quidditch Cup this year?”

“I’m not privy to gambling—much less, gambling on the Hogwart’s Quidditch Cup, Ekko… Also aren’t you supposed to be cheering for Slytherin?” 

“Whatever you say, Prof. Also, Ravenclaw’s like my adoptive family— plus, it’s not like we’re playing Slytherin right now…”

“Alright, then.”

— — — — — 

October 2th, 7:26 PM

“Powder, who’s that?” Vi squinted at the sky, trying to make out the new Ravenclaw seeker that was floating above the field. Something about the person’s posture and dark hair looked familiar, but Vi couldn’t quite place who it was. “Is that’s Tricia’s replacement?” 

“Who’s who?” Powder asked, shivering in the November chill. She was wearing her house’s color—the Hufflepuff yellow was drawing quite a few looks from the other Gryffindors, but she had Vi’s maroon Gryffindor scarf around her neck. “Oh, the new seeker? I’m pretty sure that’s the Hat Girl.” 

“Hat Girl?” 

“Head Girl, Hat Girl. Fresh avocados, Fresha voca dos.” 

“Caitlyn Kiramman?” Vi repeated in disbelief. “I didn’t know she played Quidditch.” Vi glanced at her sister. “Also, are you okay? Because I have no idea what you just said about avocados.” 

“I’m fine, mind you.” Powder rolled her eyes before getting back to the topic of the seeker. “I heard she was technically on the team but had to sit out all last year due to an injury. I don’t know what about before that though. Also heard a rumor that she grew up playing for some prissy club team on the weekends. And another how she trained with Josef Wronski a summer.” Powder sighed dramatically. “Man, I would blow up the Gryffindor Tower just to meet that guy.” 

“ Powder. ” 

“Okay, it’d be hard to make something that can take out such a giant building though. You know, there’s this bomb mechanism—” 

Vi slapped a hand over her sister’s mouth as Powder rolled her eyes. “I think Ekko’s being a bad influence on that genius brain of yours,” Vi huffed, just a bit thankful that none of the other Gryffindors had heard her sister’s words. “I swear to God, you can’t just go around and say you’re gonna blow stuff up.” 

“Sure, sure. At least it’s better than going around and actually doing it, right?” Powder’s voice was playful. “Okay, but are you sure you never played a match against her before?” 

“No, I think I’m pretty damn sure,” Vi responded, still watching the streak of silver in the sky with keen interest. “She looks like she’s pretty good, judging from those turns though.” 

“Well, when you consider the fact that she’s trained with the greatest and has that Firebolt broom and whatnot… I think you’d expect her to be pretty good, you know? Plus, you do know she’s the captain of the Ravenclaw team, right?” 

“What?” Vi looked at Powder incredulously. “How? There’s no way they let people join the team and be captain during their first year on the team!” 

“She’s gotta be really good then.” 

Vi huffed exasperatedly. “I can’t believe I won’t get a chance to play her until later this year.” 

Powder scoffed. “Your fault for fucking it up, sis.” 

“ My fault!? Who the hell gives a near-half-a-season suspension for one thing!?” 

“You were riding brooms in the halls and down the stairs, Vi.”  

“So? It was for a serious reason, and Madam Pomfrey even thanked me for it. Technically saved that poor guy’s wrist,” Vi shook her head. “I swear, I just think someone in Slytherin’s been out for me this year. I don’t even know who.”

“Yeah, yeah, of course, blame it on Slytherin,” Powder mocked Vi’s voice. “ I swear, someone’s out for me. Pfff. Didn’t Caitlyn catch you riding in the halls before? I remember you complaining about it earlier this year, too. So, not a one-time incident.” 

“Okay, that was like, once. I just happened to do it again, and for a relatively good reason.”  

“Also, you broke an ancient vase from China this time, too.”

“I was in a rush thinking that someone was going to die!” Vi said defensively. “Fine, point taken. This sucks. I’m going to go crazy on the sidelines.” 

The crowd roared around her, as the first goal of the season was made. Vi looked up to see her fellow chaser, Mel Medarda, triumphantly raising a fist to the sky, indicating that she was the one who made the goal. While Vi felt happy for her fellow teammate, she couldn’t help but feel a spark of jealousy ignite in her. Making the first goal was something that Vi had wanted to do since her first year at Hogwarts when she was just a pre-teen on the stands watching her first Quidditch game. Even this many years later, she’d still marveled at what it would be like to score the first goal of a season. And now she would never get to actually experience it. 

Vi sighed. At least she still had a chance to even play later this year, assuming she got her position as a chaser on the team back. 

“...only a few minutes in, but I think Kiramann’s caught sight of the snitch again!” Ekko’s voice blared over the magical loudspeakers, drawing Vi’s attention to the game again. “Only twenty minutes in— d’you think she’ll catch it this time?” 

Ekko’s words drew a loud “ Booooo! ” from the swarm of gold and maroon around Vi, but even over the booing from her own house, Vi could hear the enthusiastic cheers from the Ravenclaw stands across the field. 

Looking up again, Vi could see that Caitlyn with a hand raised to her eyes, the hand blocking out the sunlight. Moments later, Vi leaned forward in surprise, as Caitlyn resolutely dropped her hand to her broom, forcefully pushing down into a steep dive. 

“…she’s headed straight down…” 

At the speed Caitlyn was diving at, Vi was quite concerned about the possibility of the seeker not slowing in time, and breaking her pretty neck. Just meters before Caitlyn could dive right into the ground, Vi saw the flash of gold that darted just out of the seeker’s reach take a sharp upward turn, taking in a new direction toward the Gryffindor stands. 

The whole crowd seemed to be in silence, Ekko included, but Vi had to suppress her own cheer at the way Caitlyn smoothly curved her broom’s direction to follow the snitch. The girl had been so close to the ground that her Quidditch robes had even dragged along the grass, but she seemed unfazed by the abrupt turn. 

“Another goal by Medarda! Gryffindor chasers are off to a great start this season…” 

Vi couldn’t even pay attention to the chaser on her own team at this point. The snitch was fluttering around above the Gryffindor stands, and the Gryffindor seeker, Janna, had caught notice, too; now, both seekers were weaving around above the Gryffindor stands, while incoming beaters headed their way. 

In a swift moment, the snitch came spiraling straight toward Vi. It was so strange and so sudden and so precisely headed toward Vi, that if she didn’t know better, she would have assumed that the snitch recognized her. 

Unfortunately for Vi, the Ravenclaw seeker’s reactions were just as fast, and within seconds, fingers latched onto the snitch right before Vi’s eyes, and a body came tumbling down from a red-tinted broom handle. The broom swerved to the side, back into the air, but the body crashed into Vi, knocking her out of her seat. Her head hit the seat behind her forcefully, resulting in a dull throb in the back of her head. She was given a faceful of navy hair, and it was only after a moment of shock that the person got up, brushing off their jacket with their free hand. 

Vi didn’t even comprehend the moans of defeat from her fellow Gryffindors, and neither did she absorb the fact that the girl before her was clutching the snitch in one hand. Instead, she was wholeheartedly captivated by the sight of flushed cheeks, ragged breaths, and triumphant smile before her. The seeker’s— Caitlyn’s— hand extended toward her, and everything seemed in slow motion— her head was throbbing—

“Sorry about that… Hey, are you alright?!” 

Holy shit… she’s sweaty and… really pretty up close. Did she always look like this? 

— — — — — — 

Quidditch commentary audio record: 

note: NOVEMBER 20th, 4:00 PM - GRYFFINDOR V. RAVENCLAW 

“So far Ravenclaw’s been off to a great start with the season. two ties with Gryffindor so far, but we’ve also beat them once… and they beat Hufflepuff twice, but with one loss. Slytherin well, sorry, Slytherin, I love y’all as housemates and all, but Slytherin miiiiight be out of the picture, but I think they might overtake Hufflepuff if they try hard enough—but Hufflepuff’s got fresh meat on their team, too. Number two, that’s my friend Powder—she’s absolutely a beast of a beater and a jinx for the other players on the field, though. Huh. Jinx. I kind of like the sound of that—”

“Ekko…”

“Anywayyyyy, I feel like Kiramman’s been a bit unsteady with her flying all day. Not sure, but what I do know is that if Kiramman keeps flying this haphazardly and at this tortoise-like rate, I’d be a little concerned for her at the next game against Hufflepuff; I would really like to NOT see Powder throwing a beater her way and what it might do to Kiramman’s face.”

— — — — — — 

November 20th, 3:01 PM

“Vi.” Caitlyn’s exasperated voice echoed down the corridor, from where she had intercepted the other girl's path back from detention. 

“Cupcake.” Vi mocked her. 

“Argh, why are you so difficult?”

“Difficult?” Vi scoffed, rolling her eyes. “You’ve hardly seen difficult. Have you met my sister?” 

“How were you written up for detention again?!” Caitlyn threw her hands up in the air, ignoring Vi’s question. “Divination class, too! Divination! How!?” 

“Really, it’s not my fault Dolores has two brain cells and neither of them is sane.” 

“You threw her tea set at the wall— you broke her personal property!” 

“Yeah, and she made me pay for it, can’t you tell?” Vi gestured at her bandaged hand. 

“What happened?” 

“Black quill? I think that’s what she called it. Hurt like a bitch, if I’m being honest.” 

“And you didn’t let Madam Pomfrey heal it?” 

“To be fair, I didn’t go to Madam Pomfrey’s at all. Managed to avoid her questions, at least.” 

“When did you last change bandages?” 

“Like… yesterday noon?” 

Caitlyn looked like she was on the verge of giving Vi another lecture. “Give me your hand.” 

“Uh…” 

“Just give me your hand, dammit!” 

“Okay, okay!” Vi gave Caitlyn her bandaged hand, awkwardly watching as the Head Girl gently unwrapped her hastily made wound cover. 

“You’re the biggest idiot I know,” Caitlyn huffed under her breath. She let loose the lightest gasp when the wound was revealed. Vi figured it probably looked pretty bad; she’d been forced to rewrite the sentence “I will not cause violence” fifty times with the Black Quill, which carved her handwriting into the skin of her left hand. What probably made it worse was the fact that her handwriting was terribly inconsistent—her hand probably still looked like a mangled mess. 

“Hold still,” Caitlyn said. “This is probably going to hurt.” She muttered an incantation of some sort under her breath, and Vi felt her skin literally regrow and stitch together—and yeah, Caitlyn was right. It did hurt. 

Nevertheless, it was over within a minute, and after Caitlyn gently brushed off the few droplets of blood that remained, Vi lifted her hand and stretched her fingers, flexing the muscles along the back of her hand. 

“How does it feel?” 

“Good. Healed.” Vi looked up to meet Caitlyn’s eyes. “Where’d you learn that?”

“My dad’s a healer,” Caitlyn tossed the old bandages aside, cleaning the remaining blood off of Vi’s hand with some wipes. “You pick up a few things in the family.” 

“Thank you.”  

“Great. You’re welcome. Now, will you finally stop getting into trouble? At this rate, you’re not going to be playing Quidditch at all this year.” 

“You know, if I didn’t know better, it actually sounds like you want me to play Quidditch. What happened to eliminating competition, you know?” 

“Well, first off, as Head Girl, I am trying to maintain a sense of order around here, especially with us seventh years being role models. And second, yes , I don’t like awards and achievements being handed to me—I prefer to earn them while competing with the proper competition. I believe in fairness if you want to put it that way.” 

Vi stared at Caitlyn, who stared back at her in the confusion. There was a thought forming in her brain and—

“You know what?” Vi blurted out. “You’re a Piltie, but you’re surprisingly not as prissy as I thought you were.” 

“You think I’m prissy?” Caitlyn's entire demeanor screamed ‘I’m offended’. “A Piltie? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I mean, yeah,” Vi gestured at Caitlyn as a whole. “I’ve meant quite a few snobby people from Piltover, but never one quite… as civilized, like you. Huh. I mean, look at you. Someone like you— Piltover’s Finest and whatnot, you know?” 

“Someone like me?” Caitlyn echoed. The look of confusion on her face was priceless. “Also, there are plenty of civilized people in Piltover— and sure, my mother’s a politician, and my dad’s a healer, but that’s literally it. I don’t understand why people make such a big deal with that nickname just because of my parents—” 

“Yeah, well,” Vi tucked her healed hands into her blazer pockets, circling the Head Girl like a shark trapping its prey. “You know, maybe it’s less about your parentage and more about you .”

“Me? What about me?” Caitlyn scoffed. Vi could tell she was getting to the girl though, from the way Caitlyn’s posture stiffen even more. “What? Do I have something on my face?” 

“No, but…” In one swift motion, Vi backed Caitlyn against the wall, trapping the girl with a hand. “You’re hot, cupcake.” The smooth wall was freezing cold under Vi’s hands, but her attention was all focused on the Head Girl in front of her. “You ever thought that maybe that’s why they call you Piltover’s Finest?” 

Caitlyn’s throat bobbed as she seemed to take a gulp. Vi caught sight of Caitlyn’s gaze dropping down to her lips, and couldn’t hold back the growing smirk on her own face even though she was a bit surprised at Caitlyn’s reaction. She’d expected the girl to maybe push her back and yell at her or something. Maybe slap Vi for cornering her into a wall. 

What surprised her even more, though, was Caitlyn’s hand snaking behind her head and pulling her into a fierce kiss. 

There weren't any fireworks or anything. It took all of Vi’s power to even respond to the kiss, but she was utterly captivated once her attention was focused on how soft Caitlyn’s lips were—and God, don’t even get me started on her body… then Caitlyn’s tongue came into the scene, domineering in a way that Vi hadn’t expected… Caitlyn eventually broke the kiss with a gasp as Vi’s hand crept along that ass— but God, Vi wanted to devastate the girl. 

“What are you doing?” Vi finally asked, out of breath from the intensity of the kiss. “What are we doing?” 

“Kissing,” Caitlyn’s staggered reply came amidst ragged breaths. “Kissing, really really well. This doesn’t have to change anything. And don’t worry, I don’t kiss and tell.” 

“Oh, so you’ve done this before—”

"Shut up," Caitlyn mumbled as she dragged Vi down the hall toward the broom closet. “Get in here.” 

Vi didn’t have a chance to do more talking anyway. The moment Caitlyn and she was in the darkness of the broom closet, their lips were attached again. Caitlyn was a good kisser, and Vi wasn’t going to complain; she was enjoying this very, very much. 

A soft gasp greeted Vi’s ear as she backed Caitlyn to the cold wall of the closet and leaned forward with her knee between Caitlyn’s. Caitlyn’s touches were exploratory yet confident, roaming Vi’s body and brushing the skin under Vi’s untucked button-up shirt. In turn, Vi traced her hands up the goosebumps on Caitlyn’s thighs. 

A firm pattern of pressure was building on Vi’s thigh, and it took her a few minutes to realize that it was Caitlyn’s body grinding down on her leg. Caitlyn’s entire body shuddered as Vi crept a hand up to the apex of her thighs, before touching the wetness that laid before Caitlyn’s knickers. 

“Is this okay?” Vi asked, still hardly able to believe that she was about to shag the Head Girl in the broom closet. 

“That’s… much more than okay.” Caitlyn was already breathless.

“Okay. Okay, good.” 

“Stop talking—” 

“But consent is sexy—” 

“Shite— shut up— ” 

“Whoa, I didn’t think you had such a dirty mouth—” 

“ Fuck you— ”

“Shh. I’m the one fucking you.” 

“I swear to— oh, bloody Merlin, yes— ” 

It was quick. Just a couple of minutes and several firm touches with her fingers was all that was needed to break Caitlyn. Vi had to cover Caitlyn’s mouth with a hand to keep the girl’s moans from drifting out of the broom closet and into the hallway. Nevertheless, it was so hot watching the Ravenclaw in front of her arch under her touch and shake from the orgasm, before slowing to slow, spasmodic shudders.

“One second,” Caitlyn huffed, still trying to calm herself from her orgasm. Her hand traced Vi’s body, drifting down her stomach. “And I—” 

“Oh, you don’t have to…”  

“No, I want to… just need to breathe,” Caitlyn’s hands worked expertly at the buttons of Vi’s pants. “And I’ll return the favor.” 

“...so we’re calling it a favor now?” 

“Shut up.” 

“I mean, I’m not opposed to— God, fuck!” 

Vi lost all sense of thought the moment Caitlyn’s mouth met her core. Caitlyn was clearly experienced in the world of sexual affairs as well, because while her first few strokes were exploratory, as if to see where Vi was most sensitive, in mere seconds, she was confidently pulling Vi closer. Within moments, Vi found herself shamelessly grinding her body against Caitlyn’s mouth, tugging Caitlyn’s hair with one hand while she used the other to muffle her own sounds. 

When Caitlyn introduced a finger along with her tongue’s movements and pressed down gently on Vi’s lower stomach, Vi fell apart, shuddering as her knees threatened to buckle under the force of the unexpectedly intense orgasm. 

“Are you alright?” 

“Shouldn’t… I be asking you that?” Vi gasped back, trying to calm her racing heart. “Also, where did you learn to do that— that swirl and suck thing?” 

The smirk on Caitlyn’s face was well-earned, and Vi didn’t find it in herself to tell the other girl off. Instead, she settled for listening to Caitlyn’s words as she hastily pulled up her pants again. 

“Like I said,” Caitlyn said, “I don’t kiss and tell.” Vi swore that her heart skipped a beat as Caitlyn brought a finger— the one that she’d used to bring Vi to an orgasm— up to her lips and licked them clean. “Though I have to say, I think you taste sweeter than I do.” 

“Damn.” Vi could hardly believe her own ears— or eyes. Was this really the Head Girl? How was she so confident? “And I suppose you also know what you taste like, huh?” 

“I mean, what’s a chef who doesn’t taste their own food, right?” 

“Who are you, and what have you done to Caitlyn Kiramman?” Vi asked, still catching her breath. “Cause… damn.” This drew a small grin from Caitlyn’s mouth, and Vi couldn’t help but feel some sort of contentment knowing that she was the one who caused it. 

“Okay, but I’m being serious.” Caitlyn’s expression turned stern again. “Stop getting in trouble. I want Ravenclaw to win fair and square this season, and I can’t do that if you and Medarda aren’t playing together. Everyone knows you two have been carrying the team for the past two years.” 

“Also…” She straightened her sweater and grabbed her robe again as she headed toward the entrance of the broom closet. There was a faint smile playing on her face as she watched Vi button up her shirt and pants. 

“I hope you’re free tomorrow night— 8:00 PM. Come find me at the Heads’ Lounge.” 

“Oh, and pray tell, what will we be doing?” 

“Well, considering how much fun we just had…” There was a mischievous glint in Caitlyn’s eyes. “I’m thinking something similar.” 

Then, she left Vi staring after her, alone in the dark, pondering how exactly she, a Gryffindor muggle-born, ended up shagging the Ravenclaw Head Girl in the broom closet. 

Must be a Thanksgiving miracle or some shit— wait, I don’t think they even celebrate that here, do they? 

— — — — — — 

Quidditch commentary audio record: 

note: JANUARY 8th, 1:00 PM - GRYFFINDOR V. RAVENCLAW 

“Merlin’s mustache, what on earth are Medarda and Talis doing? Did you see that block? That has to be personal. You know, I heard that they’ve got something going on, actually. I don’t know how much of the rumors are true, but I mean, look at the way they’re headbutting on the field... I can see it though; Talis definitely needs someone like Medarda to keep his ass in line—” 

“Language!”

“Ha, sorry, Prof. I get carried away sometimes. Damn! Okay, Kiramman… Gryffindor’s beaters are being brutal today— Wow. Haven’t seen Caitlyn that pissed before— she almost knocked Medarda off her broom. Sheesh—what crawled up her pants and died, huh? Another goal to Ravenclaw, though! Woohoo!”  

— — — — — — 

January 8th, 10:58 AM

The Gryffindor-Ravenclaw rivalry escalated quickly after the first few matches of the season. Vi hadn’t been on the sidelines since her first year at Hogwarts, but even she could tell that everyone seemed antsier than usual. It made sense though; it had been ages since there had been a proper Gryffindor-Ravenclaw competition when it came to Quidditch. Ravenclaw was determined to prove itself after all these years, and Gryffindor wanted to maintain its image of being Quidditch champs. 

Nevertheless, the energy was seeping into Vi’s veins as well. It wasn’t like she necessarily wanted to bash the Ravenclaws, but every time one of them mentioned a “Ravenclaw win” this and a “Ravenclaw seeker” that… yeah, that really was starting to get on her nerves. 

It was mid-January, and Vi had put on her familiar maroon and gold blazer and robes once more, getting ready to leave early for the upcoming Quidditch match between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. Even though it was freezing outside, Vi knew that an ample amount of students would be crowding the stands again, and since she could not watch from the Gryffindor team box at the moment, the least she could do was find a good seat from the stands. 

“Fuckin’ hell,” Vi muttered as she tried to make her way toward the snack stand. Ravenclaw was managing the stand today as their fundraiser, and Vi cussed mentally. Had she known, she would’ve just brought her own snacks; she knew from experience that whenever other houses were selling snacks, the sellers would always give priority to their own house members instead of those of other houses. 

Sure enough, Vi had to wait much longer than usual for the snacks. By the time, it was her turn to buy something, Vi had already been in line for nearly half an hour, and a small mass of maroon and gold had also formed behind her. 

“Whatcha want?” One of the Ravenclaw beaters asked her gruffly. Vi thought she recognized him; he looked like one of the sixth years in her stupid divination class.

“A hot dog and pop,” Vi sighed, pulling out a couple of sickles. “Is this enough?”  

“We’re out of hot dogs.” The beater spoke uninterestedly, grabbing a paper cup and lid. “What flavor of pop do you want?”

“You’re shitting me right?” Vi was not in the mood to deal with the inter-house prejudices. “First off, I’ve been here since you guys started selling, and second, there’s absolutely no way you guys don’t have any more hot dogs. They order by them by the thousands every month. I’ve been on the team long enough to know that.” 

“Sorry, but that’s just how it is.” The beater squared his jaw and raised an eyebrow. “You got a problem with that?” 

“Yeah, I got a problem with your face,” Vi retorted, not even noticing that her fellow Gryffindors were edging away from her. “I’m not in the mood for your bullshit. Give me my food and I’ll be on my way.” 

The beater sloppily thrust out the soda toward Vi, intentionally tilting the cup so it poured all over Vi’s newly cleaned blazer and pants. Luckily, it missed her maroon robes, but Vi was mad, nonetheless. 

“Oops,” the beater shrugged. “My bad. Maybe if you didn’t get kicked from the team you wouldn’t be here arguing about a hot dog, mudblood .” 

“You—” Vi couldn’t help it. All she felt was pent-up anger, and in one quick motion, she stepped forward grabbing onto the collar of the beater’s shirt. She didn’t care that there was soda staining her blazer and dripping onto the floor, nor did she care about the consequences of her threatening the guy before her. The chattering from the Ravenclaws and Gryffindors around her also died down as all eyes fell on Vi. 

“Listen here, you bastard,” Vi said, pulling the beater down by the collar so that he met her height. “I might not be on the team right now. I might be muggle-born . But I’m a Gryffindor, and I attend Hogwarts just like you do—” 

“Get your filthy hands off of me.” 

“Or what, huh?” Vi smirked. She let go of the Ravenclaw’s collar, before taking a hand to his face and shoving him back into the wall behind the table he was at. He slammed back into the wall with a loud “oof”. “What’re you gonna do about it? Call for your daddy to solve all of your problems? Try and get me kicked out? Seems like you’re just all talk. You know what the Americans would call you?” Vi smiled. “A pussy — you know, short for pusillanimous… and also vagina, which I’m sure is a foreign thing for you— bet you never had any before, maybe that’s why purebloods are so ‘pure’, huh—” 

Vi could tell she was starting to piss the guy off. Maybe it was because of all of the upcoming stresses about career choices and whatnot, but something was stirring inside her, a cold, angry feeling that she hadn’t felt in quite some time, something she hadn’t felt since her parents’ deaths. But the feeling crept throughout her body and settle deep in her bones, and she felt… almost excited. “You gonna try and pick a fight with me, huh?” 

The Ravenclaw narrowed his eyes at Vi, as if sizing her up, and before she even registered the movement, he hopped over the table and slammed a fist into her face, sending her reeling to the ground. 

The silence was deafening as Vi got up, touching the tender skin of her upper cheek and the side of her eye. Her hand came away with a bit of blood—and it was refreshing . “Atta boy,” she chuckled as she took off her robe and raised her fists. Deep down, there was a nagging feeling that warned her about the consequences of her actions, but Vi didn’t pay it any attention. There was a louder voice in her mind this time, reminding her of how good it felt to be beating the shit out of someone else. Vi was fully focused on the fact that she hadn’t had a proper fistfight in such a long time; she was thrilled to have an opportunity to fight again. 

“Come at me,” she said, gesturing with her fingers. “This the closest you’ve gotten to a girl, huh?” 

“And you call yourself a girl?” The Ravenclaw scoffed, before swinging wildly at Vi. It was like time slowed down before her; Vi deftly blocked the Ravenclaw beater’s arm as it came down on her, and pulled it forward, letting the Ravenclaw stagger and fall face-first, landing haphazardly on the floor. 

“I bet I get more girls than you, dumbass. Is that all you’ve got?” Vi goaded him. “I could do this all day.” She cracked her knuckles as one of the other Ravenclaw team members attempted to pull the beater back, the boy simply pushed his teammate off. A couple of students had taken up a quiet “fight, fight, fight” chant, forming a semicircle around where Vi and the Ravenclaw boy stood. 

The Ravenclaw launched forward again, just as Vi reached out to intercept his blow, a voice cut through the chaos. 

“STOP. NOW .” 

The sudden voice jerked Vi’s head to the side as she sidestepped the beater’s punch, and the guy slipped on the puddle of soda that had been where Vi had been standing, crashing into one of the food tables. 

“Vi, YOU—” Caitlyn was absolutely fuming. Vi didn’t think she’d ever seen the Head Girl so mad before.  “Joel, you are sitting out this game— and the next.” 

“What?! But she incited—”

“I know enough about what happened.” Caitlyn stormed up to the two of them, pulling Joel back from where he was inching closer to Vi to gesture forcefully at the Gryffindor. “Playing favorites with those in line— just because I am not here most of the time does not mean I do not notice. And blood discrimination, I will simply not allow.” The beater opened his mouth to protest, but Caitlyn had already shifted her attention from him to Vi. “And talking about women, Vi. WOMEN .” Caitlyn jabbed at Vi’s chest, and Vi swore she saw a look of hurt that momentarily flashed across the Ravenclaw seeker’s expression of anger. “Who do you think you are!?” Joel opened her mouth to say something again, but Caitlyn wasn’t stopping. “Before you say another word, as the Ravenclaw captain, I will not hesitate to have you sit out for the rest of this season, even if it results in Ravenclaw losing the cup.” She turned around in a wide arc, and Vi completely forgot about her wet blazer when she saw the no-nonsense look on Caitlyn’s face. 

“And as the Head Girl, I will not tolerate any sort of discrimination or derogatory terms. Nor will I tolerate stupidly inflated egos ! I understand everyone is on the edge due to the competition, but that is no excuse for such immature actions!” The hall was completely silent, aside from the echo of Caitlyn’s frustrated words. “Understood?” 

Silence. 

“I said, understood?! ”

Half-hearted mutters of “yes” and “okay” met Vi’s ears as the crowd started to disperse and form lines again. 

“You, clean up this… godforsaken mess on the floor,” Caitlyn ordered Joel. Her gaze turned to Vi, expression poker-faced. Other than a slight narrowing of eyebrows, Vi couldn’t read Caitlyn’s expression. She didn’t look quite as mad as she originally had been… but still mad, nevertheless. “And you . Follow me.” 

Caitlyn walked off, leading Vi toward the Changing Rooms, and Vi followed behind reluctantly. 

“Sit,” Caitlyn gestured toward a bench. “Now.” 

“What am I doing here, cupcake?” 

“Do not talk to me like that right now.” 

“For real though—” 

“I am ‘for real’, okay? I have zero patience right now, Violet. Zero. Fucking . Patience. ” Caitlyn's voice was steely as she retrieved a first aid kit from her supplies. “ Sit .” 

“So demanding.” Vi plopped herself down on the bench with a small huff, eyeing Caitlyn’s fuming demeanor as the Head Girl brought forth an antiseptic. Instinctively, Vi brought her hand up to touch the injury on her face. 

“I swear to god, do not touch that.” 

“Okay, okay. I won’t… I think I like you when you’re bossy, not gonna lie..” 

“Shut up.”

“We should try this the next time we have a rendevous the Head’s Lounge—” 

“Vi, I swear to god!” Caitlyn’s slapped a hand over Vi’s mouth at those words, gaze flickering around the Changing Rooms’ aisles. She hissed. “First off, I’m not in the mood for your… your teasing or whatever the hell this is. Second, you can’t just go around saying that aloud!” Once she was sure that there was no one else in the room, she seemed to release a breath and turned back to look at Vi. “Third, you keep hurting yours— Merlin , sorry, are you okay?” 

“Yeah… yeah—” Vi stared wide-eyed at Caitlyn. The prim, pissed and upset mood that Caitlyn had mere seconds ago was replaced by a look of worry. 

“Stop talking and hold still.”  Firm touches tilted Vi’s face up gently as Vi winced from the touch of the cloth against her face. There must’ve been a cut along her eyebrow somewhere because the touch of alcohol made her face sting. Caitlyn’s hands worked steadily in silence as she cleaned the wound. After a few minutes, she pulled back to throw away the bloodied cloth. “I think you might need stitches for your eyebrow.” 

“Do you know how to do stitches?” 

“Well, yes, my dad taught me—” 

“Perfect. Carry on.” 

Caitlyn stared at her. “What?” 

Vi stood, stretching her arms slightly before leaning over and examining the contents of the first aid kit. “Well, you pointed out the disadvantage of telling Madam Pomfrey, so either you stitch it, or I’ll do it myself.” 

“You… you’re… you’re insufferable.”  Caitlyn gaped at Vi. “Do you even know how to stitch a wound?” 

“I mean, it can’t be that hard, right?” 

“It can’t be that bad— bloody hell . Do not move.” Caitlyn pushed Vi back down into a sitting position again, before carefully putting on a pair of clean gloves and starting on the stitches. There was a small pinprick of pain every time the needle entered her skin, but overall, Vi didn’t find the whole ordeal unpleasant at all. Uncomfortable, though—that could be argued. 

“Are you done yet?”

“For Merlin’s sake, shut up. ” 

“You know, for someone with such an uptight attitude, you sure have really soft hands,” Vi said, finally breaking the silence after Caitlyn indicated that she was done by pulling away and wrapping up all of the supplies and dirtied gloves and stitch scissors. “And steady ones, too… though, I guess that’s expected.” 

“Mind you, my attitude is not uptight,” Caitlyn said harshly. “Stop treating this like it’s nothing, I cannot believe that you got into another fight— in the same week, too— ” 

“Oh, come on, lighten up, cupcake, he started it the moment he poured that drink on me. I don’t get why you’re so mad—” 

“You pushed him into the wall, Vi. Not to mention that you called him a— an obnoxiously vulgar word, and then, near objectified women. Women , Vi!” Caitlyn’s voice’s volume was increasing, and Vi had never seen Caitlyn so angry. “Calling purebloods pure because of whether or not they had been with women? Saying that you get more girls than Joel does? Would you rather me send you to Madam Pomfrey and explain to her what happened and then have to write you up for inciting violence and foul language, Vi? Would you really like to be suspended from Quidditch for the rest of the year? And I told you to stay out of trouble, too—I cannot believe how—”

“What are you, my mom?” The moment the words fell out of Vi’s lips, she regretted it. But she couldn’t hold it back, and they just kept coming. “I’m sorry I get fucking offended when someone calls me a mudblood and treats me like the dirt beneath their shoes, Caitlyn! I’m sorry I don’t measure up to your picket white fence, Piltover-posh standards, or whatever the fuck! Why are you so fucking mad?! ” 

“Maybe it’s because you don’t fucking listen!” Caitlyn yelled back. “And I’m trying to help you, but you don’t fucking listen, and your words have consequences, don’t you fucking see!? Do you forget that I’m categorized as a pureblood, too! Have you forgotten that I’m supposedly one of the girls you ‘get’ because sure, we fucked before, but for a moment there, I really felt like a piece of—” Caitlyn’s turned away, breaths heavy against the sound of Vi’s own breathing. 

The silence was deafening.

“Just get changed and go, Vi. I don’t have the time or willpower to write another person up or deal with another argument.” Caitlyn reached into the bag that she had with her before pulling out a pair of black pants and a light grey sweater. From the looks of it, it was Caitlyn’s club Quidditch sweater and sweatpants. Immediately, guilt overcame Vi, for shouting at Caitlyn, who’d just been trying to help her for the past few months. 

“I’m sorry, Cait, I didn’t mean to yell at you or start a fight, I just—” 

“I need to start prepping my team. Just go. I can’t keep you out of trouble forever.” Caitlyn rubbed her face in frustration, but also seemingly in defeat as she headed out of the changing room, refusing to look back at Vi. 

“Can we talk later?” 

“I have plans tonight, so no. I’ll be busy.” Caitlyn’s tone was cold, and so strangely un-Caitlyn . Vi blanched at the unexpected tone. 

“Oh. Okay, sorry, I mean, see y—” Vi didn’t even get to finish her sentence, and Caitlyn was already out the door. 

Goddammit, Vi, you always say the wrong times at the wrong times... 

— — — — — — 

Quidditch commentary audio record: 

note: MARCH 21st, 4:00 PM - GRYFFINDOR V. RAVENCLAW 

“Kiramman’s turns have been rough today. It’s so weird. Did she hurt her hip or something? I feel like every time I’ve looked at her she’s been struggling to keep her balance… maybe it’s the weather? Really, we should’ve just postponed this game until tomorrow, or whenever the rain stops pouring. It looks like there’s literally going to be a thunderstorm. Gryffindor looks like they’re about to score! WAIT, I THINK KIRAMMAN GOT THE SNITCH! Actually, I can’t tell. Professor, I don’t know, but this weather is concerning…”

“Ekko, Mel Medarda just scored another goal. Please keep your focus on the game at play.” 

“Professor, no, I’m being serious, look at—ohmygod, DO SOMETHING SHE JUST GOT STRUCK BY LIGHTNING—”

— — — — — — 

March 21st, 4:48 PM

“What the fuck!” 

A crack of lighting and screaming from the stands drowned out the cheers from Vi and her teammates on the field. Vi had just made a goal with an assist from Mel when she looked up, squinting, only to see Caitlyn slipping from her broom. From the height Caitlyn was at— oh, God —  

“Hold this shit!” Vi yelled at Mel as she tossed her helmet to her teammate, who fumbled with it for a moment before catching it. In any other situation, Vi would’ve laughed at her teammate’s butterfingers had Caitlin not been falling from her broom. 

Shit, shit, shit, Vi’s brain was short-circuiting as she pushed her Thunderbolt to travel as fast as it could. Caitlyn was getting too close to the ground— too close, too close—

“Vi!” Her teammate’s voices rang across the pitch as she leaned forward, diving off her broom to intercept Caitlyn just meters before reaching the ground. The weather was shit, and Vi could barely see through the rain, but her hands met rough fabric and a warm body, and she pulled it tight, before twisting her own body to absorb the impact of hitting the ground. Wet earth painfully slammed into her back, but it was nothing compared to the adrenaline and panic in Vi’s veins.

“Fuck,” Vi muttered, as she scrambled up into a sitting position, trying to adjust Caitlyn’s body in her arms. She could feel the mud from the wet ground seeping into their Quidditch uniforms. 

“Cait?” Vi managed to brush Caitlyn’s wet hair out of her face; the Head Girl’s eyes were opened, but her expression was one of pure panic. Caitlyn’s breaths were shallow and quick, as if she were hyperventilating. “Hold on, let me—” 

“Vi! Are you alright!?” Mel’s voice cut through the blood rushing in Vi’s ears. 

“Yeah, I’m fine! Just—” Vi gasped when she caught sight of Caitlyn’s burnt Ravenclaw robe sleeve, immediately pulling off the singed glove and rolling it up to find the girl’s forearm marred with Lichtenberg figures. “Oh my God…” Vi tucked up arms under Caitlyn’s body and picked the Head Girl up, apologizing profusely as Caitlyn cursed weakly, cradling her arm and curling into the right side of her body. 

“Get Pomfrey!” Vi yelled at one of the Ravenclaw players— it was a Ravenclaw chaser. “She needs a healer!” The chaser nodded her head rapidly, eyes wide with fright as she ran off, presumably to find Madam Pomfrey. 

“It fucking hurts—” Caitlyn’s voice drifted up to Vi’s ears as Vi ran off the pitch, searching for shelter from the rain and leaving behind the other players that had started to land on the ground. Vi glanced down briefly, only to catch sight of Caitlyn’s flushed cheeks— the girl looked feverish and her eyes were unfocused. Caitlyn's voice wobbled, followed by the quietest whimper. “My ear—”

“Where?” Vi asked, hands shaking as she finally laid Caitlyn down on the dry ground under one of the stands. “Your arm— is it just your arm?” 

“I don’t— my ear— I can’t—” 

“Where else, Cait?” 

“Everywhere,” Caitlyn shivered uncontrollably. “My entire right side—” 

Vi’s hands worked furiously at untangling the ties of Caitlyn’s Ravenclaw robe, before pulling both it and Caitlyn’s drenched sweater off. “I’m taking your sweater off, okay?” She peeled off the tank top that Caitlyn had on. The girl’s entire right side of her upper body was laced in red streaks— liking delineating her blood vessels that had been affected by the lightning strike. “Do you have your wand?” 

“My robe…” 

“Okay. Okay,” Vi dug through Caitlyn’s robe pockets, before coming across the wand. She quickly muttered a cooling spell, applying it across Caitlyn’s reddening skin along her right arm and the right side of her chest. The tension in Caitlyn’s face relaxed a bit, indicating that the spell must’ve helped some, but the girl still looked like she was in pain, curling up and cradling her arm.

“Vi, don’t—” Jayce’s voice, followed by the sound of footsteps indicated that the rest of the group had caught up with them. 

Vi turned around at the group of Ravenclaw and Gryffindor players behind her. “Where’s the healer?” No one answered. “Maybe you should go look for one, instead of following us here and standing around like idiots!” That scattered the crowd and left Mel, Jayce, and Vi along with Caitlyn. 

“What are you doing?” Jayce grabbed Caitlyn’s wand. “You’re hurting her—” 

“What are you doing!” Vi demanded, jumping to her feet. Her hands clenched into fists— was Jayce really choosing this moment to question her trustworthiness. Vi contemplated the consequences of socking Jayce in the face. “Can’t you see? She’s burning up!” 

“Stop it, Jayce,” Mel’s voice was calm, a clear contrast to Vi’s panic. She pulled on Jayce’s arm. “She trying to help her.” 

“How is this helping!” Jayce gestured wildly at Caitlyn. “Does that look like it’s helping!” 

“Where are you?” Caitlyn sounded terrified, dragging her good hand against the floor, as if searching for something. “I can’t see— shite, my eyes—” 

Vi’s breath caught in her throat as she abandoned her train of thought about punching Jayce in the face. Caitlyn’s eyes? No, no, Caitlyn was literally known for her excellent eyesight, she wanted to compete in sharpshooting one day, maybe even try for the muggle Olympics— permanent damage would crush her dreams— Vi couldn’t let that happen— Caitlyn would be devastated —

“We’re right here,” Jayce said, kneeling next to Caitlyn. “Cait…” 

“No, no, I want Vi, ” Caitlyn’s voice broke, and it tugged at Vi’s heartstrings. The Ravenclaw seeker’s hand reached along her childhood friend’s arm, tracing it down to Jayce’s fingers, before pulling back after recognizing that it wasn’t Vi’s hand. She shuddered from what seemed to be a resurgence of the pain. “Vi?” 

“Right next to you, cupcake,” Vi reassured Caitlyn, taking the girl’s hand. “You’re gonna be okay, you hear?” Vi could barely recognize her own voice. It was too shaky, too thick with emotion. “You’re gonna be okay.” 

“I found Madam Pomfrey!” Another voice cut through Vi’s reassurances. “Bring Caitlyn over, Madam’s setting up a tent and cot for her on the other side of the field!” 

It was all a blur— Vi barely comprehended the way that she quickly wrapped Caitlyn in the girl’s blue robes again before darting across the field, following one of her teammates. The rain was soaking into her boots and socks, but it didn’t matter. All Vi could think about was all the times that Caitlyn had stitched up her face and healed her hand and cleaned up her injuries, and the one time that Caitlyn was hurt , Vi couldn’t even help her. She could barely let go to Caitlyn even when they arrived at Madam Pomfrey’s station, too caught up in her own emotional distress. 

Jayce had to pull her out after Madam Pomfrey called for St. Mungo healers to come to the scene and ordered everyone else to leave, and the last image burned into Vi’s mind was of Caitlyn’s terrified eyes, focusing on nothing and everything at once. It was long after Madam Pomfrey kicked her out, along with everyone else, that Vi came to her senses. 

“Hey,” Mel's voice reached her ears. Vi looked up from where she was sitting out in the rain, right outside of the tent that Madam Pomfrey had set up on the field. “You’re shaking.” 

“I’m fine.” 

“Let’s get you out of the rain.” 

“I said I’m fine.” 

“Vi.” 

“What!?” 

“Calm down!” Mel snapped loudly, bringing Vi back to attention. Mel rarely ever raised her voice. “You’re acting like a child, Vi! Waiting out here’s not going to do anything!” 

“Tell me about it!” Vi yelled back. “ I don’t fucking care! And her injuries— they’re so bad— Cait’s in there all alone—” 

“She’s not alone, Vi.” 

“She can’t see , Mel! They’re all strangers to her— she’s terrified—” 

“She’s in good hands.” Mel’s demeanor softened. “And why are you so worked up, anyway—” 

“Why wouldn’t I be!?” 

“—unless…you care for her.” 

“I—” Vi’s shoulder slumped. “I don’t even know.” 

“You’re worried about her right now. I didn’t even think you were friends— I thought you two hated each other.” 

“I do ,” she whispered.

“You hate each other?” 

“No, I…” 

“You care for her.” 

“I…” The words faded into the sounds of rain hitting the grass. “God, I do .” 

“When did this happen— no, how —” 

“She’s kind,” Vi said, “beautiful, and smart, and funny, and caring, and just so many amazing things compressed together to fit into a person. She’s… she’s Caitlyn, ” Vi’s voice wobbled. “How could I not ?” 

“You love her, ” Mel stated, surprise lacing her tone. They stood in silence, and Vi’s voice just didn’t seem to work, but it was enough of a confirmation for Mel. “You do .”  

“It doesn’t matter,” Vi said quietly. “I doubt she feels anywhere near the same.” She was thankful for the rain because her throat was getting stupidly clogged up and there were most definitely tears in her eyes. 

“And I doubt that, from the way she asked for you.” Mel scoffed. “But you love her. ” 

“I would trade my eyes if she needed them to see,” Vi said, seemingly deaf to Mel’s prior statement. “She…means the world to me. And even if she doesn’t feel the same way, I can’t ruin this… whatever it is that we already have. I can’t risk it.” Her hands trembled in her pockets. “Saying it would make it real.” 

“Look, I know it’s not my place, but… sometimes saying it is better than nothing,” Mel wrapped her arms around Vi’s frame, patting her friend’s back gently. “And sometimes, trying is better than not, you know?” 

“I know, it’s just…” 

“Come on,” Mel tugged Vi’s arm. “Let’s get you out of the rain. I’m sure Jayce will update us if he gets news about Caitlyn, okay?” 

“Alright… Alright, okay.” 

— — — — — — 

March 21st, 8:53 PM

“Please, Madam, I need to see her—” 

“I’m having a hard time believing that you need to see her. It’s almost nine o’clock— shouldn’t you be in your dorm at this time, too? If you wanted to see her, you should’ve come earlier, with the rest of the folks.”

 “Oh, come on, there’s no way those pasty Ravenclaws would’ve let me in to see Cait!” 

“Watch who you’re calling pasty! Some of my best friends were Ravenclaws!” 

“Sorry, but I mean it! Cait and I are good friends but her teammates would’ve eaten me alive!” 

Madam Pomfrey gave Vi a long look, before relenting. “You better be out of there the moment I tell you to leave.” 

“How long?” 

“How long do you plan on staying for?” 

Vi hesitated. “An hour?” 

“An hour!” Madam Pomfrey scoffed. “Young lady, when do you think I sleep ?” 

“Okay, fine, 45 minutes.” 

“15 minutes is the most I’m giving you.” 

“30 minutes,” Vi begged. “Please? Just this once.”

Madam Pomfrey sighed. “Fine. 30 minutes, and not a single second more. I’ll consider it a favor for bringing me that third-year who fell off his broom last time—since I heard you got in trouble for it.” 

“Thank you!” Vi hugged the older woman tightly, before letting go and rushing into the private room that Caitlyn was in. “Cait!” 

“Hm…?” Messy hair and bandages were what greeted Vi’s eyes as she came toward the cot that Caitlyn was in. “Vi?” 

“How’re you feeling?” Vi asked, smile dropping a little as she saw the bandages covering Caitlyn’s eyes. 

“Where are you?” Caitlyn’s hand was outstretched, reaching in the direction of Vi’s voice. 

“Oh, sorry— right here.” Vi carefully intertwined their hands together as she came closer. “Can I sit with you?” 

“Yes, please,” Caitlyn scooched to her left slightly as Vi climbed onto the cot and took a seat next to the girl. “I thought you weren’t going to visit.” 

“Well, I would’ve come earlier, but… your teammates are a bit scary.” 

“So you admit to being scared of the Ravenclaws.” 

“I admit to nothing. ”

“Well, I’m glad you’re here.” A pause. “I heard you saved my life.” 

“Really now.” 

“According to the healers from St. Mungo’s, yes.” 

“How’s your arm?” 

“A lot better. But it feels weird. Doesn’t hurt anymore, but I think they said something about physical therapy for a few weeks.” 

“And your eyes? And ear?” Vi’s free hand brushed along the bandages that covered Caitlyn’s eyes. Caitlyn must’ve felt the movements because she immediately pulled Vi’s hand into her own. 

“It should be fine.” Should. “The healers had to perform surgery because they said something about cataracts, but they said everyone looks fine and Jayce told me earlier that this kind of thing usually only takes a couple of weeks to heal. Ears are back to normal, there’s a bit of bruising, and that’s all.” 

“That’s good to hear.” The silence was deafening, but Vi didn’t know what to say. Sorry, I was also lowkey terrified that you would never be able to see again? Sorry, I thought you were also about to die? Sorry, I don’t know what to say because I’m in love with you and you don’t reciprocate? 

“Hey, are you alright?” 

“Yeah, of course. Shouldn’t I be asking you that?” 

“Yes, but you’re really quiet for some reason. And you haven’t called me cupcake yet, which is quite a surprise.”

“I’m fine. Just, seeing you today on the field and all that… it was kind of terrifying.” Would it be too much to say… “I thought I— we were going to lose you.” 

Caitlyn was silent for a moment. Did she catch Vi’s slip up? 

“Thanks for being here.” Caitlyn rested her head on Vi’s shoulder, as the other girl wrapped her arms around Caitlyn. They didn’t cuddle much, even with their usual… rendezvous, but Vi was enraptured by the way their bodies seemed to meld together. Caitlyn’s voice was impossibly soft when she spoke again. “It means a lot… Tell me about your day?” 

Vi spoke. She told Caitlyn about Jinx berating at her for recklessly diving off her broom— and as Jinx put it, “for the enemy”, too. She described Ekko’s concern for Caitlyn before starting to scold Vi for neglecting her precious Thunderbolt that he’d gotten her as a gift from years ago. She spoke and spoke, and it was mere minutes later that a soft, nearly imperceptible snuffle escaped Caitlyn’s lips, indicating that the girl was asleep. 

Vi glanced at the clock. She still had near twelve minutes to spare, so she settled with gently stroking Caitlyn’s arm, before pressing a kiss to Caitlyn’s temple and resting her head on top of Caitlyn’s. 

Just for a second, Vi thought, closing her eyes. Just for a few minutes, until Madam Pomfrey kicks me out. 

Sleep came quicker than lightning this time. And as Vi fell asleep, Madam Pomfrey poked her head through the doorway, prepared to tell Vi to get back to her dorm. Upon seeing the two seventh years dozing in each others’ embrace, and the content smile on each of their faces, she procured a blanket and draped it over Vi’s slumbering figure, before backing out of the room slowly, heart softening under the image of something that was definitely more than just friendship. 

After all, even Madam Pomfrey, old with age and eyes wrinkled with a lifetime of experience, remembered what it was like to be young and in love, too. 

— — — — — —

Quidditch commentary audio record: 

note: APRIL 16th, 7:00 PM - GRYFFINDOR V. RAVENCLAW 

“Well, I think this is the longest match we’ve had all season. Shame that Kiramman’s had to sit out today. I heard her previous injury’s been acting up or something. To be fair, Seraphine’s been doing great so far since she’s been substituting as Seeker! On the topic of Kiramman, though, I think she’ll be back in play by the next game. Vi told me the other day that she’d caught Kiramman trying to sneak out of Madam Pomfrey’s. Sorry Caitlyn, but I bet if Vi hadn't been there, you would’ve done something to reinjure yourself and then wouldn’t be able to play in the upcoming championships match, so…”

“Ekko, for Merlin’s sake, please stay on topic.” 

“Yessir, Professor! On the topic of the championships match, this is the second to last match Ravenclaw and Gryffindor are going to have this season; the next time they play each other, it's going to be for the Cup! Yes, you heard me—the match has been confirmed, so mark your calendars for next month’s 18th!” 

— — — — — —  

April 17th, 8:29 AM

“Slow down, Vi!” 

“Oh, come on, don’t tell me you’re not enjoying this!” 

“For clarification, I am absolutely not! ” 

“Shit, really,” Vi eased her foot down on the acceleration, before moving over the gas pedal. “Sorry, I thought you’d enjoy going fast since Quidditch and all— are you alright?” 

“Can you just pull over for a second? And— what’s it— park this thing. ”

“Yeah, yeah, let me just—” Vi slid into an empty parking spot on the side of the road, and Caitlyn aggressively opened the door on the passenger side before leaning out of the car and taking in a gulp of fresh air. “Sorry, was that too much?” 

“Trust me, Vi,” Caitlyn spoke raggedly. “You’re amazing at controlling this thing, but for the love of God, I felt sick. And the speeding over the bumps! I love you to Camelot and back and whatnot, but Merlin, let’s not do that again, please .” 

“Yeah, sorry, I’ll slow down—” At that moment, Vi’s brain caught up which what she was hearing. “ Wait, what? ”

“What?” Caitlyn’s confused gaze met Vi’s as the Ravenclaw slid back into her car seat. 

“You love me?” Vi gaped at the girl next to her, completely forgetting about the evening that she’d planned out to celebrate the completion of her NEWTs, along with the Ravenclaw win at yesterday’s match against Gryffindor. 

“ What? ” Caitlyn gaped back at Vi. “Did I say that?” 

“Yeah,” Vi laughed shakily, “unless—” 

“I mean, not— I mean, like, you know, I’ve known you for— I don’t know, seven months? You’re just really attractive, and like, girlfriend material, so I mean, like— oh, God did I just imply that again—”

Vi’s vision was turning blurry. Were those tears in her eyes? 

“Are you crying? ” Caitlyn asked in shock. “Shouldn’t I be crying?” The girl buried her face in her hands. “Merlin’s underpants, this is can’t be. Please tell me I did not just tell you—” 

“You think I’m girlfriend material? ” 

“—that after I wanted to throw up from that ride. This was not how it was supposed to go—there’s supposed to be flowers and candles and whatnot, and I was gonna tell you this whole damn speech to ask you to be my date to my mom’s stupid Spring Gala—”

“You had a speech? You wanted me to be your date??” 

“Do I look like I wouldn’t have a speech?” Caitlyn panicked. “Oh, Merlin, you don’t feel the same, do you? See, dammit, I should’ve known, I’m so sorry, Vi, I didn’t mean to put this on you— I can go—” 

“Oh my God, Cait,” Vi shushed the other girl while fighting back the urge to laugh and brushing at the tears falling from her eyes, too. She pulled Caitlyn forward, letting their lips meet in a messy kiss. “Stop panicking. God, I feel the same about you. Have been feeling that way for quite a while now, too.” 

“You… love me?”

“For the record, yes, I do,” Vi laughed. “A lot.” 

“Will you be my girlfriend?” 

“Hey, that’s my question! Will you be my girlfriend?” 

“I’ll be whatever the fuck you want, I just can’t believe this is happening.” 

“You kiss your mom with that mouth, Cait?” 

“What? I don’t kiss my mum—” 

“It’s just a saying,” Vi reassured her. Before leaning back in her seat and looking straight ahead. “Well, damn. This is the biggest plot twist I’ve had in quite some time.” 

“We’re girlfriends,” Caitlyn stated in an awestruck tone. “You’re my girlfriend , now. This is crazy.” 

“What’s crazier is the fact that we’re doing all of this out of order,” Vi said. “If you want to argue about how crazy this is, let’s do that after we show up on time to our reservation— can we finally call it a date now?” 

“Are you going to tell me where you’re going?” 

“No, that’s a surprise.” Vi pulled them out into the street again, slowing down the speed to match Caitlyn’s comfort. “It’s a nice place though.” 

It only took another ten minutes to pull up into the parking lot. Vi’s hand had snuck over to the passenger seat somewhere along the last few minutes of the ride, and she had to reluctantly untangle their fingers as each of them got out of their car doors. 

“The Ivy On The Square?” 

“It’s a British restaurant,” Vi explained, holding the door to let Caitlyn through first. “Thought you might enjoy the flavors of Britain again since it’s been a hot minute since you’ve been back home.” 

“That’s… quite thoughtful of you,” The smile she received from Caitlyn could’ve melted Vi right then and there. However, another voice cut into the scene. 

“Hi, do you have a reservation?” The hostess had eyed Vi’s pink hair with distaste before directing her question toward Caitlyn. “What’s your name, young lady?” 

“Oh, no, I didn’t make the— Vi?” Caitlyn hooked an arm with Vi’s, and Vi could see confusion creep in through across the hostess’s features. 

“Yes,” Vi flashed the hostess a smug smile. “I believe the reservation is under my name, not my girlfriend’s.” Girlfriend, ha! Vi’s giddiness drifted away when she saw the hostess’s eyes narrowing further at her words. “Should be under Vi. ”

“I don’t believe—” 

“Lady, you’ve got to work on your masking your homophobia if you want to keep your job—”   

“Excuse me—”

“Yeah, excuse you— ” 

“Vi!” A bright voice called from across the restaurant before Vi found herself smothered by a giant bearhug. “Let your old man look’t you, won’t you?” 

“Vander, come on,” Vi laughed even as she pried herself out of her adoptive father’s hands. “Okay, okay!” She struggled to stop laughing after seeing Caitlyn’s bewildered face. “This is Caitlyn, as you know—” 

“Caitlyn!” Vander’s sunny demeanor brightened a couple more megawatts as he swept Caitlyn up in a giant hug as well. “I’ve heard so much about you!” 

“You… have?” 

“Sir—” the hostess’s voice cut in. 

“Oh, hush, they’re with me.” Vander dragged Caitlyn and Vi to the booth he had been sitting at. “Goodness,” he said, redirecting his attention to Caitlyn, “I’ve been so excited to meet you!” 

“You have?” Caitlyn repeated for the second time. Vi glanced over at her girlfriend nervously. Was Vander coming off too strong? She had thought Caitlyn was excited to meet Vander, too, but from the current looks of it… 

“Uh, Vander, as you know, this is Caitlyn, she’s a Ravenclaw and we’re in the same year‚ er, grade, I mean. Caitlyn, this is Vander… you know, my adoptive dad. He was a Gryffindor, back in the day.” 

“It’s very nice to meet you, Mr. Vander,” Caitlyn said, gingerly bowing her head just the slightest in politeness. 

“Oh, no, no,” Vander immediately protested, “Vander is just fine. Anyone who can make Vi smile like that is someone who can call me by first name basis.”  

“Nice to meet you, Vander, then.” Caitlyn’s nervous demeanor had been replaced by a fond smile. “So… do you have any embarrassing stories about Vi to share with me?” 

“Please, I have so many, where do I even start— oh, how about that punching bag one?” 

“No, don’t even think about it—” Vi tried to slap a hand over Vander's mouth, but the big man just held her off with one arm, grinning widely at Caitlyn as he began to recount the time that Vi got her nose broken by a punching bag. 

“So, basically, thirteen-year-old Vi had this obsession with MMA…” 

Despite the embarrassing story, the smile that it drew from Caitlyn’s face made Vi smile, because sharing embarrassing stories was one thing, but sharing embarrassing stories with Caitlyn—that was another thing. 

And maybe—just maybe, it was something Vi could get used to. 

— — — — — — 

April 23rd, 4:48 PM

“Vi!” 

“Coming!” Shit . Vi’s hands fumbled as she aggressively reattempted to tie her tie for the fourth time, before giving up and tossing the tie onto the sink counter. 

Whatever. I can go tie-less, right?

“Are you almost done yet?” 

“Yeah, yeah, let me just—” Vi opened the door to catch sight of Caitlyn standing in front of her full-body mirror, with a yet-to-be-zipped dress on her body. “Holy shit , you look good.” She stared at the way the silk wrapped around Caitlyn’s curves elegantly— and by God, that slit was making her feel things.

“Cat got your tongue?” Caitlyn teased when she noticed Vi’s reaction. “Come on, help zip me up, won’t you?” 

“God...” Vi helped Caitlyn straighten out her dress and zip up the backside before turning the girl around for a quick kiss. “The dress looks stunning on you.” 

“Mhm,” Caitlyn hummed in agreement. “Oh, I could tell from the look on your face.” 

“Bet it would look better on your bedroom floor, though.” 

Caitlyn’s laughter filled the room, and Vi melted with the sound of it. “Okay, Casanova, whatever you say.” Caitlyn’s eyes landed on Vi’s outfit. “What happened to your tie?” 

“Well, um, about that—” 

“Don’t tell me you were planning on going without it.” 

“I mean, do I really have to?” 

“Vi, you know how my mom is.” 

“Ugh, fine,” Vi grumbled. “Can you help me tie it?” 

“You overestimate my skills,” Caitlyn rolled her eyes as she grabbed the tie from the bathroom counter, where Vi had abandoned it. “My dad can help you. Come on.” 

Vi reluctantly let herself be dragged to the master room, where Mr. Tobias Kiramman was doing the last touches to his outfit. 

“Dad, can you help us with this tie?” 

“Hm?” Tobias Kiramman looked up from the sleeve that he was fiddling with. “Oh, Caitlyn, you look amazing! And you, too, Vi, I knew that style was a perfect fit! Here, let me—” 

Vi tried her best to stand and look comfortable as Tobias Kiramman’s experienced hands slotted the tie between her shirt collar, fastening it into a neat bow. Then, he patted her shoulders, as if brushing off imaginary dust, and internally, Vi let out a sigh. “All done.” 

As much as she appreciated Tobias Kiramman’s welcoming demeanor despite only having met Vi twice, Vi still found it a little uncomfortable and felt out of place. 

“Thank you, Mr. Kiramman.” 

“You’re welcome, dear.” His gaze went to Caitlyn before jumping back to Vi. “Are you two ready to go?” 

“Yes, I think we have everything, right, Vi?” Caitlyn asked. 

“Um…” How eloquent, Vi thought to herself. She hastily went through a mental checklist before noticing Caitlyn’s empty wrist. “Oh, shoot! The corsage—” 

“You got me a corsage?” 

“Yeah, uh, I mean,” Vi looked awkwardly at the older Kiramman. “You know, it’s a spring gala, and I thought it’d be nice if we could match? And like, flowers, and whatnot.” 

Tobias’s eyes twinkled in amusement as he started for the west wing. “Well, Vi, I trust that you and Caitlyn can take care of your last-minute things, correct?” 

“Yes, er, of course, sir.” 

“Again, no need for the formalities.” Tobias waved it off with a hand. He shrugged on his suit jacket. “I’ll see you two at the ballroom in a bit.” He smiled at Caitlyn. “Sweetie, you know how your mom gets, so it’s probably a good idea for me to step in before she starts terrorizing the waiters we hired.” 

“Of course.” With that, Tobias waved the two off, as he headed toward the ballroom in which the spring gala was to be hosted. The annual event was always hosted by the Kiramman to raise toward a specific cause. Every year the cause was different, but the content always seemed the same; the Kirammans always went all out with lavish ballroom decor, opened up their lush, blooming gardens to guests’ exploration, and landed the Kirammans (mainly Cassandra) on the cover of the Daily Prophet. 

“You’re so formal with my parents,” Caitlyn noted as the two headed back toward Caitlyn’s room again. “It’s unsettling.” 

“Your parents are intimidating,” Vi replied. “And your mom is downright scary.” 

“Is she really though?” 

“She really is.” Vi huffed. “Come on, there’s gotta be a reason why she’s the Minister of Magic, right?” 

“Right,” Caitlyn raised her eyebrow. “Because she’s scary.” 

“Exactly.” Vi pecked Caitlyn’s cheek. “I’ll be right back, okay?” 

“Go ahead,” Caitlyn opened the door to her room, slowing her movement as she gave Vi a soft smile. “I’ll be here waiting.” 

Those words weren’t even a big deal, but for Vi, they settled like a warmth into her chest. For the longest time, she had felt like she couldn’t catch up with people. After their parents’ deaths, her academics plummeted, and her teachers told her she would never catch up with her peers. After being framed for arson and sent to juvie for a year, the guards told her she’d never catch up with the world around her. And after coming to Hogwarts, she was told that her muggle abilities would never catch up to those of the purebloods. 

Even as Vi apparated to the flower shop that she’d ordered a corsage and boutonniere from, she couldn’t stop thinking about Caitlyn. And when she apparated back to the Kiramman mansion and presented the flower to Caitlyn, the look of surprise and gratefulness on Caitlyn’s face was priceless. And then, when Caitlyn spoke, with an “it’s beautiful, Vi… Merlin, I love you, you’re so thoughtful.” 

But when she was standing here, on the receiving end of Caitlyn’s love and those lingering looks… by God, Vi felt like anything was possible. 

— — — — — — 

April 23rd, 8:19 PM

“Hey,” Vi exhaled, smiling as she saw Caitlyn heading toward her. However, the other girl had a stiff smile on her face, which dropped the moment, she took Vi’s hand and was always from the group that she had originally been in. “Are you alright?” 

“Yes,” Caitlyn took Vi’s drink from her hand, before taking a drink from the fancy-looking glass. “Merlin, what is this, pure ethanol?” Caitlyn spluttered, likely from the strong taste, and Vi fought back a smile. 

“Easy there. It’s whiskey, actually.”

“In a champagne glass.” Caitlyn deadpanned. 

“Indeed.” 

“How… fitting.” Caitlyn took another generous swig from the glass again, before coughing lightly as Vi took it from her hand. “This is really strong.” Her coughing drew a few looks from nearby guests. 

“Exactly why you should take it easy.” Vi rubbed Caitlyn’s back. “You alright?” 

“Yes, yes.” Caitlyn sighed. “I wish we could leave. I hate it.” 

“Don’t like the music?” Vi said jokingly. “Or the food?” 

“As if— you know how much I like the music,” Caitlyn bumped her arm into Vi. “I hate the politics of all of this.” Caitlyn's gaze traveled over the little crowds in the room, before settling on her mother, who was speaking animatedly to a small group of people. “And the people. Most of them are either sucking up to my mother or wanting to expand their political agenda in some way.” 

“Oh. I feel you.” Vi drank the remainder of the whiskey in the glass. “Vander used to have to do the same, you know?” 

“Is that so?” 

“Yeah… I know we didn’t really talk about this when you met him, but, er, he used to be in a gang.” 

“A gang?” 

“Yeah. American gang. He was pretty high up, too. Had a bunch of lackeys kissing his ass to be on his good side.” Vi smiled wistfully. “He used to hold bar meetings and it was kind of like this… except, a lot less fancy, and people were plotting drug trafficking and whatnot.” 

“Drug trafficking!?” Caitlyn’s eyes widened. “Merlin, what was he doing?!” 

“Oh, don’t worry, they weren’t killing people or anything. At least not at that time.” Vi shrugged. “He quit when he realized how badly these drugs were hurting others. But you know, you can’t really quit a gang or anything… so when I got a letter from Hogwarts, he moved up to Britain. Pulled a couple of strings here and there for safety, especially since Powder and I were still young at the time.” Vi grinned. “I think the bar that Vander used to own is technically mine now, though.” 

“Vander fascinates me,” Caitlyn laughed, “and I swear, I feel as though I learn something new about your family each day.” 

“We’re just full of surprises, you know?” 

“Sorry for leaving you alone with my mom, though.” 

“It’s okay, cupcake,” Vi reassured Caitlyn. “It was perfectly fine. Plus, don’t you have a few more people to say hi to?” 

At that Caitlyn pouted, but she reluctantly pulled out of Vi’s embrace, settling for just looping her arm through Vi’s. She pulled Vi with her to talk to a random politician that Vi had no interest in conversing with, but Vi didn’t care. 

Because when she saw Caitlyn’s mother glancing their way again, the smile that she’d seen from earlier— it was there again, a little wider this time, a little brighter—Vi knew it was directed toward Caitlyn. 

“Hey, Vi… how do you feel about meeting my mom?” Caitlyn’s eyes glittered brightly under the magical interior lights of the ballroom. It seemed that she had caught sight of where Vi had been looking. “Like, properly. Because I know she’d love to meet you.” 

“Really?” Vi couldn’t help the hesitation that seeped into her voice. “But, she’s… you know.” Cassandra Kiramman was the most well-respected figure in all of wizarding Britain, not to mention, the matriarch of one of the oldest pureblood lines in England. Why would she pay any attention to Vi at all? 

Not to mention, what was there for her to like about the middle-class American muggle-born girl that somehow ended up dating her perfect daughter? 

“Trust me, she’s not all that bad,” Caitlyn reassured Vi. “She’s just… she asks a lot of questions sometimes so it gets overwhelming.” Her gaze softened. “We don’t have to, by the way, I was just mentioning it since we’re here—”

“No, Cait, I… It would be my honor to meet her.” 

“Really?” Caitlyn’s expression brightened immediately. 

“Yeah. Really. I’m still terrified of your mother, though.” 

“Don’t worry, I think she’ll like you. Just, you know, be yourself.” Caitlyn tugged Vi’s hand gently. “Come on.” 

Vi allowed herself to be dragged over to Cassandra’s Kiramman’s little circle of important people, and during a brief pause in the conversation, Caitlyn managed to pull her mother away from the circle to introduce Vi… however, it was also at that moment that Caitlyn was pulled away by another politician into a polite conversation. Caitlyn flashed Vi a look that said sorry . 

“Miss Violet,” Caitlyn’s mother addressed her, face having morphed back to a painfully neutral expression. Internally, Vi blanched. “I don’t believe we have had the opportunity to meet properly.” 

“No, er, I don’t think we have,” Vi's voice cracked, as she stuck out her hand stiffly. She didn’t miss the way that Cassandra raised an eyebrow at her words. “It’s an honor to meet you, Madam Minister. I’m Vi. Your daughter— er, Caitlyn’s, uh, friend.” 

“Is that so?” Cassandra’s hand grasped Vi’s in a light handshake before letting go. “Are you a fellow Ravenclaw?” 

“No, I’m… Gryffindor.” Vi swallowed thickly. “Cait and I play against each other in Quidditch though. And I have a couple of classes with her— and overlapping friend group, too.” 

“Cait, hm.” There was a painstakingly long pause as Cassandra took a flute of champagne from a waiter. “I see. And how are you enjoying the party?” 

“It’s very… unique. But, um, not really my usual scene?” 

“Is that a question?” 

“Um, no, I guess not.”

At that, Cassandra's expression lightened, as her lips turned up ever so slightly in a smile. “You’re an interesting one, Miss Violet.” 

“Please, just call me Vi.” 

“Well, then, I must insist that you call me Cassandra.” Cassandra leaned in ever so slightly. “So, tell me, what are your intentions with my—” 

“Mum,” Caitlyn’s voice floated by Vi’s ear. “I truly hope you’re not terrorizing Vi.” The taller girl looped her arm through Vi’s, and for some strange reason, Vi had to fight off the urge to run. 

“Of course not, dear,” Cassandra smiled. “Just getting to know your friend , that’s all.” 

Caitlyn’s eyes narrowed at her mother’s words. “Are you implying something?” 

“Nothing that isn’t already implied by Violet’s presence.” 

“Mother—”

“Madam Minister, could I have a word—” An older gentleman dressed in fine silks beckoned for Cassandra’s attention.  

“Forgive me,” Cassandra excused herself as she handed off her champagne flute to a waiter. She delicately shook Vi’s hand, with a smile on her face. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Violet.” Her gaze landed on Caitlyn before jumping back to Vi. “I hope you enjoy tonight.” She slipped away into the crowd. 

“Do you want to dance?” Caitlyn’s words jerked Vi’s attention back to the girl beside her. 

“Dance?” Vi echoed. “Where?” 

“I mean,” Caitlyn gestured at the ballroom they were in. “Technically anywhere.” She tilted her chin toward the open space near the musicians. “But look.” 

Sure enough, there were a few couples that had taken to swaying about in front of the live band. 

“Cupcake, I’m sorry, but I do not know how to dance.” 

“It’s easy,” Caitlyn reassured Vi, “I’ll show you.” She tugged Vi’s arm gently. “Come on.” 

Vi allowed herself to be pulled toward the musicians. She fought back a groan as she saw the lead violinist’s curious look at her and Caitlyn, before having her attention redirected to the woman that was wrapping her arms around her. 

“Have you ever heard of a waltz?” 

“Er— to be completely honest? No.” 

“It’s a three-beat dance,” Caitlyn said. “And you move your feet in succession with each other.” 

“I have no idea what I’m supposed to do.” 

“Well, that’s the fancy way of doing it,” Caitlyn spoke lightly. “In reality, all we have to do is sway.” 

“Sway?” 

“Yes. Like this.” 

With bumbling steps, Vi fell into rhythm with Caitlyn’s slow movements. She was so nervous that she near stepped on Caitlyn’s toes, and in an attempt to balance herself, she nearly tripped over her foot. 

“Whoa!” Caitlyn steadied her, and Vi felt her cheeks burn. “You alright?” 

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Vi groaned. “My pride, however…” She hastily glanced around the room, hoping that no one had caught her embarrassing performance. Thankfully, everyone else either looked to be in their conversations or doing their own dancing. 

“Do you want to stop?” Caitlyn asked worriedly. “We don’t have to dance, I just figured you’d—” 

“No, no,” Vi insisted. “I want to dance with you— I’m just  terrible at this.” 

“It’s your first time doing it, Vi,” Caitlyn’s voice was soft. “You can’t expect everything to go miraculously on the first try.” 

“I know , but—” 

“Shh. Come on, just hold me.” Caitlyn’s voice was relaxing, and the way her body slid closer to Vi calmed the shorter woman. Vi closed her eyes, resting her chin lightly on Caitlyn’s shoulder and basking the warmth of the other woman’s embrace. “Let’s just… sway .” 

The song was a slow one, with a distinct three-count beat, but even so, Vi found herself swaying with Caitlyn to their own rhythm. They were completely off-beat, but when Vi opened her eyes again as the music faded off to a slow stop, the stare she caught on Minister Cassandra Kiramman’s face from across the room sent her head speeding. The matriarch of the Kiramman family had the strangest poker-faced look on her face, and even though the companion next to her was speaking passionately about something, her eyes were kept on Vi’s. 

Cassandra Kiramman gave her a subtle nod. Then, a small smile broke through the expression. A smile that Vi had never seen before from Cassandra Kiramman. And Vi had seen a lot of smiles from that woman before— they were plastered all over the news, all of the papers, all over the Kiramman mansion. 

But this smile— it was different. It was small. Soft. Approving. Genuine.  

Vi unconsciously let loose a sigh of relief. 

“Hey, are you alright?” Caitlyn’s voice drew Vi’s attention again, and Vi pulled back slightly, shifting her focus from Cassandra Kiramman to the girl in front of her as they switched a direction. 

“Yeah,” Vi laughed. “Real peachy. But great.” 

“If you say so.” Caitlyn glanced around the room, before pecking Vi’s cheek lightly. “Do you want to go somewhere quieter?” 

“Well, it depends. Are your parents going to hate me if I say yes and insist that you come with me?” 

The corners of Caitlyn’s lips tugged upwards. “You know, considering the fact that my mom just smiled our way and my dad just gave me a thumbs up when you turned around, I think my parents are pretty fond of you so far. Plus, there are like two hundred people in here. They won’t notice.” 

“Caitlyn, did you forget that both you and your mother are sharpshooting champions ? If anyone notices, I bet it’d be your mother, with that acute hawk vision of hers.” 

At those words, a snort escaped Caitlyn’s mouth, which resulted in Vi bursting out into freakishly light giggles, and before she knew it, Caitlyn was tugging Vi’s hand, leading them out into the garden. And in the garden, under a tall tree, Caitlyn took Vi’s face into her hands, pressing the gentlest of kisses onto the other girl’s lips. 

“I hope my mom wasn’t too harsh on you.” 

“No worries. She’s your mom. You know, I think I’d be a bit concerned if she wasn’t a little overprotective.” 

“Even so… thank you for coming with me tonight.”

“You’re welcome, cupcake. Anytime.” 

Minutes later, even as Caitlyn settled herself on a bench, tilting her head up and pointing to the Lyrid meteors streaked across the sky, Vi found herself lingering on the sight of Caitlyn’s bright eyes and soft smile. 

Was this was being in love was like? 

— — — — — — 

Quidditch commentary audio record: 

note: MAY 18th, 1:00 PM - GRYFFINDOR V. RAVENCLAW 

“Annnnnnd… dammit! Another goal for Gryffindor. That was a pretty clean pass though, went straight from number six—I think that’s the new fifth year, Luxanna Crownguard—to Medarda, and then to the goal... and there’s our Ravenclaw seeker and Piltover’s Finest, leaning forward for what looks like a dive… Oh, SHIT, I see it! She’s got her eyes on the snitch, almost there, almost there—AND SHE’S GOT IT! ATTA GIRL! THAT’S A WRAP, RAVENCLAW’S GOT THE CUP THIS YEAR—CHOKE ON THAT MISERY, YOU GUTLESS GRYFFINDORS! HOPE YOU ENJOY THE WEIGHT OF CAITLYN’S SKILLS ABSOLUTELY CRUSHING YOU—” 

“Ekko, please—”

“SORRY! Sorry! Okay, okay. Man, that was one hell of a catch. Yo, what’s Kiramman doing? Why’s she headed toward the Gryffindors… OH HELL NAW, WHAT THE FUCK, CAIT—” 

“EKKO!” 

— — — — — 

May 18th, 2:16 PM 

“Vi!” Caitlyn’s voice greeted Vi’s ear, as the Gryffindor chaser looked around in confusion. Then, Vi saw the crowd of blue and silver cheering obnoxiously loudly in the stands, while the mass of gold and maroon on the other side booed. Ravenclaw must’ve caught the snitch, judging from the intensity of the cheering. 

Internally, Vi groaned, knowing that it was her last time playing Quidditch for Gryffindor and feeling the disappointment of losing. On the other hand, she felt pretty happy for her girlfriend, who was currently riding toward her on the broom with the snitch in her right hand. 

“Congratulations, cupcake,” Vi called out, raising her left hand in hopes of giving Caitlyn a high five. Caitlyn raised her left hand as well, reaching out, but to Vi’s surprise, the girl didn’t give her a high five; instead, she grabbed Vi’s hand and pulled the girl close. Vi let out a yelp of surprise, nearly losing her balance on her broom, but the panic was immediately forgotten when Caitlyn wrapped a hand around Vi’s neck and pulled her in for a long kiss. 

For what felt like minutes, the cheering and booing of the crowds seemed to fall silent as the blood roaring in Vi’s ears took over. It felt like it was just Vi and Caitlyn, kissing on the Quidditch field. 

“What was that for?!” Vi’s voice was shaky when Caitlyn finally pulled back, out of breath. 

“What’s wrong with wanting to celebrate a victory with my girlfriend?”

“OH HELL NAW, WHAT THE FUCK, CAIT—” Ekko’s voice cut through the magical speaker system as the two pulled out of each other’s embrace quickly, only to be greeted by a handful of teammates staring at them in disbelief and a lot of people in the stands yelling and pointing at them. 

“Ekko’s going to kill me. And so is Jayce.” Caitlyn slapped lightly at the Gryffindor chaser, but she was smiling. “Fuck.” 

“Caitlyn, are you shitting me?” Vi groaned aloud. “Jinx is going to torture me and then, kill me. And then, bring me back to life to do it again. Also, you’re the one who kissed me first, so that’s your fault—” 

“Shush,” Caitlyn adjusted her robes, with the snitch still in her hand. “I’ll see you at the after-party?” 

“Ravenclaw common room?” 

“Where else?” 

Vi rolled her eyes. “I’ll see you there, cupcake.” 

Two hours and fourteen minutes later, Vi found herself half-heartedly shaking Jayce’s hand after entering the Ravenclaw common room. Since Ravenclaw had won the house cup this year, they were hyped up from the huge victory over Gryffindor, and with the help of the two Head students and a distraction for Professor Heimerdinger, a party had formed in the Ravenclaw common room. 

While Ravenclaw’s victory stung, there were still students of various houses mingling together and having fun. Vi caught a glimpse of her sister’s yellow robes and blue hair bobbling up and down in the crowd, and upon a closer look, could see Ekko’s dyed-white hair flopping around near Powder to the beat of the music. A little mass of green had formed in a corner as well, and Vi could see a familiar group of Slytherins laughing away at someone or something they’d formed a little circle around. 

“Hey!” Caitlyn’s bright voice cut through the music and chaos, and Vi whipped around quickly, unable to keep the smile off her face as she saw her girlfriend. “You’re here!” 

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Vi replied lightly. “How’s the party going?” 

“Crazy unexpected,” Caitlyn gestured at the crowd. “I haven’t seen the Ravenclaw room with so many people from different houses since… well, never .” 

“Well, it makes sense that this happens when you win the Quidditch Cup, Cupcake.” Vi pulled her girlfriend a little closer. “Congratulations, by the way.” She raised an eyebrow as a loud cheer rang across the room. It looked like someone had been challenged to play a drinking game. “Mind if we go on a little walk?” 

“Oh!” Caitlyn hastily brushed off her clothing. “Yes, of course, let me just—” She pointed at Jayce, but Vi got the message. 

“Yeah, yeah, take your time.” 

A few moments later, Vi and Caitlyn were walking through the halls, looping around the stairs outside the Ravenclaw corridor. 

“Hey.” Before she could lose her courage, Vi took Caitlyn’s hand. She held out a little box. “I got you a little present.” 

“Oh, Vi, you didn’t have t—” Caitlyn’s word caught in her throat when Vi pushed the box into her hands. “ Merlin, Vi...”

“Please,” Vi said, pushing back at Caitlyn’s hand gently. “I made it. I want you to have it.” 

“I can’t possibly— ” 

“I want you to have it—” Vi insists, clasping Caitlyn’s hand over the box. “ Powder wants you to have it.” 

Those words seem to be the ones that stop Caitlyn in her tracks. Every†one knew of the rocky relationship between the Hufflepuff genius and the Ravenclaw head girl. Ever since Caitlyn had been forced to suspend Powder due to a prank she pulled on the Ravenclaw house back when Vi had gotten in trouble, the two Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff seemed to have been feuding. In fact, just two weeks ago, Vi had heard that Caitlyn had walked out of the Ravenclaw showers with dyed yellow hair and washable spray paint on her bathroom mirror. She didn’t want to know how her sister had made that happen. 

“ Powder? ” Caitlyn’s eyes narrow. “Vi…” 

“Believe it or not, cupcake,” Vi sighed, “my sister does like you. Even though she accused me of consorting with the enemy after seeing us on the pitch.” 

“Consorting with the enemy,” Caitlyn echoed. “Vi, your sister near burned down my home.” 

“Oh, come on, I thought we were past that. Plus, didn’t she gift her creation to you after?” 

“...it was literally a miniature bomb, Vi.” 

“Inside a stuffed animal.” 

 “...duly noted.” 

“I’m being serious.” 

“Sure.” 

“Cait,” Vi sighed exasperatedly. “Just open the box.” 

“Are you sure it’s not going to explode and smack my face with paint?” 

“Rest assured, it’s not going to do that.” 

Vi watched tentatively as Caitlyn untied the box’s string-wrapping with nimble fingers. 

“What… is it?” 

“Caitlyn. You have to take the wrapping paper out.” 

“Oh!” 

Caitlyn’s hand brushed aside the crinkled pale blue paper to reveal the present that Vi had gotten her. When she finally saw what it was, she gasp in surprise, and Vi leaned forward. 

“Merlin, it’s beautiful !” 

“Do you like it?” 

Caitlyn looked up at Vi’s word, and Vi couldn’t help but feel a little self-conscious at the way Caitlyn was looking at her. Thinking about it now, she must’ve seemed desperate, leaning so forward and looking so intently at Caitlyn. Thus, Vi started to make a move to lean back again. 

To her surprise, however, Caitlyn pulled her into a soft kiss. When they pulled apart, it took another few seconds for Vi’s brain to properly function and comprehend the fact that Caitlyn was speaking. 

“—eautiful, wow.. .” Caitlyn prodded Vi with the box, still staring with wonder at the little necklace. “Did you make this yourself?” 

“...” 

“Vi?” Caitlyn looked up. “Are you alright?” 

“Oh, yeah.” Vi blinked out of her reverie. “Yeah. Powder helped. Especially making those little feather indent things. We also borrowed some of Ekko’s supplies.” She smiled. “I’m glad you like it.” 

“Are you kidding me?” Caitlyn laughed. “I love it! And I love you. Help me put it on?” 

“Of course.” 

Gently, Vi took the necklace from the box, all while also admiring the design of it. She was incredibly proud of her work— the shaping of the metal into a snitch-like shape took hours to make, and the metal feathers attached to either side of the circular pendant took a whole week. Vi gathered it into her hands and clasped it around Caitlyn’s neck, before lifting the Ravenclaw’s hair from where it had fallen under the necklace chain. 

“Do you want to find a mirror?” 

“No, it’s okay,” Caitlyn reassured Vi, eyes twinkling brightly. “I already know it probably looks amazing.” 

“It does,” Vi confirmed. “It looks perfect on you.” 

After that, the two of them found themselves heading back to the Ravenclaw common room. Caitlyn muttered the password, and before they knew it, they found themselves sucked into the crowd, dancing rowdily against each other. It was only after several songs that Vi called a time-out to get drinks for the two of them, while Caitlyn got caught up in a conversation with Jayce. 

“So,” Powder’s voice crept up next to Vi’s ear as Vi hastily grabbed the beer that someone had provided. “I take that it went well?” 

“Yeah. She asked me to pass along a thank you to you, too.” 

“Psffff,” Powder rolled her eyes. “Don’t thank me. I’m still gonna be pranking the hell out of her. Just because she’s your girlfriend doesn’t mean she’s off the hook yet.” 

“Of course, Pow-pow, of course.” Vi couldn’t keep the smile off her face as her eyes met with Caitlyn’s from across the crowd. The Ravenclaw’s gaze seemed to fall on Powder as well before the corners of her mouth tugged up in a smile. 

“Ugh, you two are so in love, it’s disgusting.” 

Vi didn’t respond. Instead, she made her way back to Caitlyn’s side, pecking her girlfriend on the cheek as she handed over one of the beers she’d gotten, while also delighting in the cringe on Jayce’s face. 

And Vi wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. 

— — — — — 

May 31st, 1:03 AM 

“Vi?” 

“Shhh… go to sleep, cupcake.” 

“Where’re you goin’?” Caitlyn’s voice was sleepy and muffled by the generous amount of pillows and blankets on the bed and surrounding the two. They were both at the Kiramman mansion, lying in Caitlyn’s bed; Vi had been invited by Caitlyn to spend the weekend before they were wrapped up in their Hogwarts graduation ceremonies and leaving Hogwarts for the last time as students. 

“Just getting a snack, I’m hungry.” Vi patted the lump of blankets next to her that Caitlyn was somewhere under, as she untangled herself from the warmth of the bed. Shivering from her bare skin meeting the cool room air, she randomly grabbed a shirt that was draped across Caitlyn’s vanity chair and dress herself— Caitlyn was a bit taller than her, and the shirt proved to be a little too long and fit as a nightgown of some sort. “Don’t worry, I’ll be back in a bit— you want anything?” 

“Wait, let me come with,” Caitlyn yawned as she blinked blearily at Vi while stretching her arms. Vi couldn’t help but let her gaze drift down Caitlyn’s scantily covered body. The silk top Caitlyn had on was completely unbuttoned—Vi’s doing earlier— and left no room for imagination. 

“Eyes up here, Vi,” Caitlyn mumbled, as she buttoned her shirt. Her tone was playful though, and Vi felt heat creep into her cheeks as Caitlyn joined her, taking her hand and leading the two of them down the stairs and toward the kitchen. They didn’t bother to turn on any lights—with the wide windows and full moon, the moonlight streaming through was enough. “Let’s not be distracted from the goal, right?”

“Oh, please, cupcake,” Vi said exasperatedly as she swung open the refrigerator door. The dim amber light of the refrigerator lit up the kitchen. “Don’t pretend like you wouldn’t enjoy it if I just fuck you on the kitchen counter,” Vi smirked. “I mean… since your parents are out of town anyway…” 

“Don’t even think about it, Vi. We eat breakfast here.” 

“So? You can eat dessert here, too.” 

Caitlyn spluttered, face turning a heated, dark red, as she detached herself from Vi’s arm, turning away from the girl. “You have absolutely no filter.” 

“You love me,” Vi laughed, wrapping her arms around Caitlyn from the back. 

“Unfortunately, I do,” Caitlyn said, feigning a disappointed sigh. 

“ Unfortunately ,” Vi gasped. “Thou woundst my feelings, cupcake.” 

“Oh, but Romeo, that sounds like a you problem.” Caitlyn’s exaggerated American accent had Vi bursting out in laughter, as she held the other woman a little tighter in her arms. “You know, there’s this song I listened to recently…” 

“Hm?” 

 “It’s called Romeo and Juliet. It’s an old American song. I think it’s cute. And a little depressing, but—” 

“How’s it go?” 

“Well, I can’t sing—” 

“ Please , your shower concerts are very good—” 

“You listened to those?!” Caitlyn’s shock made Vi laugh again. “Oh, Merlin, I’m so embarrassed—” 

“There’s nothing to be embarrassed about,” Vi insisted, pulling back from Caitlyn as the other girl turned to face her. “I think you’re a very good singer.” 

“If you say so.” Caitlyn’s attention had drifted, however, and Vi caught the Ravenclaw eyeing Vi’s chest. “Oh, so now you’re the one oogling me, huh?” 

“Hm?” Caitlyn looked up, gesturing at Vi’s body. “No, I’m—you’re wearing my shirt.”  

“Huh?” Vi glanced down at what she was wearing and sure enough, the T-shirt’s fabric was a steel blue Ravenclaw color, and when she looked at the back, sure enough, it had Caitlyn’s surname on it. “Oh. You want it back?” Vi made a gesture to start taking it off, before Caitlyn noticed that Vi was wearing nothing underneath and dramatically made the other girl pull the shirt back down. 

“You look nice in blue,” Caitlyn said, face just the slightest shade of pink. “You can keep it.” 

“Maybe I should start wearing more of your stuff, then,” Vi replied. “Shame there aren’t anymore matches to attend. I would’ve worn your jersey to support you.” 

“You would?” Caitlyn’s surprise was a surprise to Vi. 

“Why wouldn’t I?” Vi asked in confusion. “You’re my girlfriend, duh. It’s not like it’s every day that you get to have a smartass girlfriend with a smoking hot bod that happens to be an amazing Seeker that wins her house the Quidditch Cup, you know?”

“I… Vi—” Caitlyn looked like she was struggling to find the right words to express herself, but from the looks of it, Vi figured that she didn’t say anything stupid or that was offending the other girl. Instead, Caitlyn looked… grateful— “Do you want to come to my next match?” 

“Wha?” Vi paused her rummaging through the Kirammans’ newly installed fridge—Vi’s suggestion, of course. “Quidditch season’s over, Cait—” 

“Not for my club team,” Caitlyn interjected, catching Vi’s attention again. She took a couple of steps closer. “We usually play up until the end of June, and this is my last season with them, so if you want to—” 

“I’ll be there,” Vi said, grinning cheekily at the other girl. “You do have extra jerseys, right? After all, I just have to let everyone know how great my girlfriend is, you know?” 

“Oh, shut up, Vi,” Caitlyn playfully swatted at Vi’s arm, which only resulted in Vi catching her hand and pulling the Ravenclaw into her arm. Caitlyn squirmed under Vi’s hold and made a snarky comment that sent the both of them bursting into laughter. The softened amber light of the refrigerator lit up the kitchen in a warm glow, and before they knew it, they were arm in arm, swaying in the silence. Vi had stopped paying attention to the food that she had wanted to get; instead, she was wholeheartedly entranced by the soft smile on Caitlyn’s face. She wanted to stay in this moment forever, and from the looks of it, Caitlyn did, too. 

And so the two of them stayed there. They danced around the kitchen in the refrigerator light, swaying to the inaudible beat of a slow song of some sort. 

But if you had the chance to watch closely, you might have recognized the song’s dance: a shuffle, a smile, and a dramatic spin, followed by reddening cheeks. Perhaps you could have even recognized the song’s melody: a light giggle, a loud laugh— followed by a whisper of a certain three words and an echo of it back. 

And the beat—that inaudible beat—perhaps you could recognize it, perhaps you never heard it before… 

It was the sound of two hearts coming home.

— — — — — 

FIN