Caitlyn’s Apartment
The buzzing streets of Piltover slowly faded as Vi walked into the upper district. She carried a small paper box in her arms. Inside the box was a collection of Caitlyn’s favorite baked goods from a small bakery near the docks where Vi first met Caitlyn. The box, while containing only baked goods, was the least Vi could do. Caitlyn had put up with so much recently, especially with Jinx’s antics, and Vi just wanted to show her appreciation and support.
Caitlyn’s apartment building was nothing short of impressive. It was constructed from polished stone, had smooth architecture, and a receptionist who raised an eyebrow at Vi when she stepped forward.
“Here to see a Caitlyn Kiramman,” Vi said, leaning casually on the front desk, “suite (can’t think of accurate apartment number).”
The receptionist hesitated before nodding, clearly he was not familiar with Caitlyn’s guests looking so…..rough around the edges. “Top floor. Left elevator.”
Vi smiled then went to the elevator.
Caitlyn Kiramman was the daughter of two aristocratic Piltoverians (idk what they’re called). Her mother, Cassandra Kiramman, was a councilor. House Kiramman has a long line of success which caused some distraught when the only heir of the Kiramman family decided to become a…. hostess.
Despite their conflict of interest, Cassandra Kiramman decided to allow her daughter to work for one of her favorite chefs at his restaurant, the Undercity. Not wanting their daughter to live off a hostess salary (despite Caitlyn being handsomely paid…it is thee Undercity after all), her parents bought her a penthouse and still provide their her with financial support.
Caitlyn opened her door to a polite knock and Vi found herself dazed at the sight of her. Caitlyn, who was usually so put together in her hostess attire, stood in her doorway in casual clothes. An oversized sweater, leggings, and cozy socks. Her hair, usually done up and tight for her job, was tied back in a lose low hanging way, with two strands laying down framing her face. The stress which usually marked her face during the week seemed softer now, though not entirely gone.
“Vi?” Caitlyn blinked, surprise but not unhappy with the visit, “what are you doing here?”
“I brought you something,” Vi said holding up the box “I thought you deserved a thank you for not, you know, banning Jinx after the Councilor visit.”
Caitlyn laughed and stepped aside to allow Vi inside “come on, that wasn’t even the worst thing she’s done. But I appreciate the gesture. What is it?”
“Pastries,” Vi said as she stepped into the prestigious apartment. The place was massive with a huge open floor concept. Elegant furniture, bookcases that lined the walls, some house plants, a few antique gizmos scattered the tidy main room. But the real impressive part of Caitlyn’s apartment was the beautiful view of Piltovers city skyline. “You know Cupcake, your apartment could have about ten of my apartments inside it.”
Caitlyn smirked, “I’m telling you. You’re more than willing to move in. Can I get you anything. Tea? Coffee?”
“Tea's good,” vi said, “and not until I know Jinx is fine on her own. We barely make rent with both our salaries.” Vi sat down on the edge of a large couch.
The two sat on the couch for a few hours, the thing of now cold tea between them with a plate of half-eaten pastries waiting to produce more crumbs. Caitlyn talked about the upcoming gala, the stress of ensuring everything will go smoothly, and the added pressure of planning the competition against Silco's crew. Vi listened more than she spoke, which was normally vice versa for the two of them, but something about Caitlyn’s voice made her want to stay quiet and let her unload.
“Well, you’re handling this all like a champ,” Vi reassured leaning back further in the coach, “Seriously, you’re keeping that whole place a float.”
Caitlyn cheeks flushed slightly, “I wouldn’t say that. Everyone’s pulling their weight, except Jinx.”
Vi snorted, “yea she’s a handful, but I’ll talked to her. Keep her out of trouble until the galas over. Promise.”
Caitlyn smiled at that, which in turn made Vis chest tighten. “Thank you Vi, really.”
Vi waved it off, though a big grin on her face betrayed her. “No big deal. Just making sure you’re not falling apart on us.”
Caitlyn titled her head and smiled “I know you care more about that restaurant than you let on.”
“Maybe. Or maybe I just care about their hostess,” Vi said with a shrug, but the flicker of warmth in her face said otherwise.
As Vi stood up to leave, Caitlyn followed her to her door.
“Vi,” Caitlyn began, “thank you. For the pastries and for checking in.”
“Anytime,” Vi responded, leaning against the door frame for a bit. “Just promise me you won’t let the whole gala thing going on stress you out too much. Got it?”
“Promise.” Caitlyn responded with a smile.
Caitlyn watched Vi walk down the hall to the elevator before shutting her door. As the door clicked shut, Caitlyn turned and leaned against it, staring at the teacups and pastries on the sofa table, a smile lingered on her lips.
Meanwhile, Vi walked out of the building with a light step. She already was thinking of the next pastries to bring with her next time…