Caitlyn Kiramman was the vice president of the Student Council at Piltover Academy. She strutted down the long, grand hallways, her uniform pristine and perfectly tailored to fit her like a glove. Every stitch, every detail was flawless, a reflection of who she was.
Her sapphire earrings shimmered as the sunlight caught them, blinding anyone who dared to stare too long. Caitlyn wore a new hairstyle; it was a ponytail neatly tied with a white bow with the Kiramman crest embellished onto it, her two front strands were pulled out to frame her face.
She moved with effortless composure, and even though all eyes were on her, she always carried herself with the grace and elegance, befitting of someone of her stature.
How could she not? Her family is THE Kirammans, one of the top four financial conglomerates in Runeterra. Caitlyn herself held a staggering net worth of 200 trillion Valors, and the mere sight of her family crest was enough to make people shudder. With over 1,000 subsidiaries under the Kiramman name, their influence stretched far and wide, a legacy Caitlyn embodied with every step she took.
In keeping up with her legacy and everything that is expected of her she excelled in a diverse array of fields—including traditional performing arts, martial arts, many languages of the world, and, naturally, marksmanship. Since the tender age of five, she has been centering and winning competitions, maintaining an unbroken streak of success, and having an average of 96.9% in all her classes that she painstakingly studies for.
That's just who Caitlyn Kiramman was.
Standing alongside her, in stark contrast yet her equal was a spiky pink-haired girl with an unkempt uniform and a graffiti-tagged bag over her shoulders with a monkey symbol keychain dangling on it
Though she might appear to be a delinquent at first glance, she was the President of the Student Council at Piltover Academy.
Vi's first day at the academy was anything but conventional it was something the academy had never seen before, something most people have never seen before in their life.
The rumor goes that on the first day of school, Vi found herself in an altercation and knocked a senior twice her size out cold with not much effort for his unsavory remark.
What was the remark? Nobody knows to this day it was rumored the senior's parents' paid hash money and Vi couldn't care less to make a spectacle about the situation at least more than it already was, she never spoke about it even if she was asked on multiple occasions to give her comment by her peers and the academy news reporters.
After a few weeks at the academy Vi tried to make the best out of her situation being one of the only kids from Zaun and standing out like a sore pink thumb, she transformed her pent-up anger into energy that pushed her into every recreational sport the academy had to offer—from soccer to boxing, even swimming, to basketball proving to everyone that she wasn't to be messed with.
However, Vi dominating all the sports she was in alone did not earn her the presidency. She also dominated in academics, scoring first place in all her exams even beating the undefeated Caitlyn Kiramman much to her disdain.
Vi was extremely talented unlike Caitlyn who would spend hours studying nonstop Vi could quickly scan over the work and understand it- that's how she achieved an all-paid scholarship to the best school Piltover had.
The dedication in everything she did, her leadership skills, her non-biased attitude, and a charismatic personality that had half the girls at the academy swooning after her had helped her to be selected as Student Council president, despite her being relatively new Vi dominated all the competition.
That's just who Vi was
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One year—one long, painstaking boring year—Caitlyn waited for Vi to confess to her.
Every night before falling asleep, she would imagine them in different romantic scenarios at the beach, in her mother's violet-filled garden even at the aquarium but mostly in the student council room where they spent most of their time together.
It would happen after a long day, when everyone had left, leaving just the two of them alone as the sun set over the academy. Caitlyn would stand on the balcony connected to the Student Council room, the orange-golden light casting on her, her hair loose and slightly blowing in the wind making her look angelic.
Vi would be seated in her usual spot, watching her with all the awe and love that those grey eyes could hold. And then, at last, she would rise from her chair adjusting her tie, she would step forward making her way towards the balcony, and take Caitlyn’s hand in her own. With a steady breath, she would drop to one knee, finally mustering the courage to confess her undying love and ask Caitlyn on a date.
But alas, Caitlyn’s dreams had slowly turned into nothing more than a coping mechanism—a way to keep herself sane as each day went by without even a hint of a confession. She feared the worst and that she might have to shoot her lover with something far more lethal than Cupid’s arrows to get the happy ending she already knew was written in the stars.
The truth was, Caitlyn just wanted to hold Vi’s hand shamelessly around the academy as Vi walked her to class carrying all her books, Caitlyn would reward her girlfriend's hard work with a kiss- even though PDA was banned and could end with them both in detention but she didn't care.
Half the school already assumed they were together, but Caitlyn had never bothered to correct that particular rumor.
Why would she? She intended to make them a reality and soon.
But patience had never been Caitlyn’s strong suit, and waiting any longer or building up the courage herself was simply not an option. Valentine’s Day was around the corner, and if it was the last thing she did, she was going to get that pink-haired delinquent-turned-student-council-president to confess her feelings.
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one year—one long, painstaking years—Vi waited for Caitlyn to confess to her.
Don't get Vi wrong—she wasn't shy about her feelings or lacked confidence, the stack of love letters in her locker was any indication she wasn't a complete orge.
But something was different about her when it came to Caitlyn.
Vi hated change.
Yet for Caitlyn, would change a million times over and over if it meant being the right woman for her.
Caitlyn had helped her in more ways than Vi ever thought possible. She would never openly admit it, but it was because of Caitlyn’s generosity and kindness that she stuck around at Piltover Academy.
Caitlyn was everything Vi wanted in a woman—selfless beyond measure, determined in everything she did, whether it was helping her peers or studying for a test in hopes of finally beating Vi (not that she ever could). She was one of the kindest people Vi had ever known, and it wasn’t just for show. She didn’t perform acts of generosity just to land herself on the front page of the Piltover Magazine for a good deed—Caitlyn Kiramman was kind simply because she wanted to be, not because she needed to save face like the rest of the people at the academy.
And, of course , she was the most beautiful girl Vi had ever laid eyes on.
She could easily just ask Caitlyn on a date—she was at least 70% sure the feelings were mutual. Caitlyn’s face heating up whenever they brushed against each other and getting flustered whenever Vi flirted with her was a pretty good indication.
But Vi knew, deep down, that she loved Caitlyn more. And honestly? She was content with that.
Still, the fear of rejection lingered.
What would a Kiramman want with a kid from the Lanes?
And if things ever got serious? If Caitlyn ever decided that Vi was worth the risk? That would mean meeting Vi’s dysfunctional excuse of a family. The thought alone made Vi’s stomach twist.
The idea of Caitlyn—prim, proper, and effortlessly composed—standing in the chaos of Vi’s past felt like oil mixing with water.
Just thinking about it gave Vi a headache.
So instead of outright confessing, Vi chose a different approach. She dropped hints, made flirty comments, teased Caitlyn just enough to rile her up, all in the hopes that Caitlyn would be the one to confess first. At least that way, Vi would know for sure—Caitlyn Kiramman wanted her for her .
But this plan was taking longer than Vi cared to admit.
Her dad always told her to be patient, but Vi was still working on that.
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, she was certain she could speed up the process. By the time she was done, Caitlyn would be a flustered, red-faced, rambling lovesick mess.
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It was time for Caitlyn to put her plan into action.
She sat on one of the couches in the student council room, having finished all her tasks, flipping through a teen magazine. Of course, her mother had no idea. Cassandra Kiramman would only allow her daughter to stay out after school if it was for competitions, publicity, or anything that would elevate the Kiramman name. Staying late just to read magazines certainly wasn’t part of the agreement. But who could blame Caitlyn for telling a small white lie? She had a scheme in motion, after all.
Leaning back against the plush cushions, she casually made quips, hoping to draw Vi’s attention. It wasn’t difficult—Vi was easily distracted from the mountain of paperwork she was supposed to be approving.
“Whatcha reading, Cait?” Vi asked, glancing up from her desk.
The casual nickname made Caitlyn blush slightly. No one ever gave her nicknames—except for Jayce, but Sprout wasn’t exactly cute and Jayce wasn't exactly Vi.
“Oh, just the new weekly teen magazine.”
“Oh yeah?” Vi raised an eyebrow. Caitlyn never showed much interest in ‘age-appropriate’ things so seeing her indulge in something so simple, so normal, made Vi’s heart warm.
“Indeed” Caitlyn said, turning the page “Oh look! They even have a little game inside....Would you like to play it with me Violet ?"
Vi became a simple woman when it came to Caitlyn—her beautiful eyes , her gentle voice, that cute gap-toothed smile and, most importantly, the ultimate weapon: calling her by her full name, a privilege not everyone possessed.
“Y-Yeah, s-sure thing,” Vi stammered, pushing herself up from her chair and making her way over to the couch. She sat beside Caitlyn, leaving just enough space between them so that if anyone barged in, nothing would seem suspicious. But at the same time, she was close enough to make Caitlyn’s heart race.
Still, Caitlyn had to keep her composure. She had a mission.
“It’s called 21 Questions ” she said innocently.
Oh, shit.
Vi should have asked what the game was before agreeing. But there was no way she could back out now—not without looking like a coward.
“I’m familiar with it....” Vi said warily, narrowing her eyes. “But it’s not really a game.”
“So… you don’t want to play?” Caitlyn pouted, lowering her gaze to her magazine.
“No!” Vi blurted out—maybe a little too loudly. The last thing she wanted was to hurt Caitlyn’s feelings. She probably didn’t know many games, given how sheltered she had been, and honestly, still was.
“I’ll play what’s the first question?”
Caitlyn’s pout vanished instantly, replaced by a victorious smirk. Once again, Vi had fallen for those damn eyes.
“Yay!” Caitlyn beamed. “Okay, first question… What’s your ideal romantic partner ”
“WHAT?!” Vi nearly choked on air, her face turning pinker than her hair. Without thinking, she snatched the magazine from Caitlyn’s hands and scanned the top of the page.
21 Questions to Get to Know Your Partner.
“Is there a problem?” Caitlyn asked, tilting her head ever so slightly—looking entirely too cute for someone being this devious.
Vi felt a full-blown lesbian panic rising.
“Caitlyn… this is a questionnaire for partners ” Vi tried to explain as calmly as she could.
“But aren’t we partners?” Caitlyn countered effortlessly, but that statement alone almost knocked all the wind from Vi's chest “We’re an elite duo— Piltover’s Finest , you've even called us partners in crime I don't see the problem”
Vi let out a long, heavy sigh.
She wasn’t sure if Caitlyn was playing dumb or if she was genuinely oblivious to the other implications of the questionnaire.
Either way, Vi was trapped.
Caitlyn, completely unfazed, gently took the magazine back and looked at her.
“So… are you going to answer or not?”
Vi swallowed. There was no backing out now.
“Fine. I, um—” Vi felt her face heating up even more and Caitlyn definitely noticed. It was rare for her to be the composed one while Vi was left flustered and stumbling over her words, but honestly? Caitlyn could get used to it.
“Cat got your tongue?” she teased, tilting her head more
“You have no idea” Vi muttered, avoiding eye contact., she knew she was stalling, trying to come up with an answer as general as possible—one that wouldn’t outright describe Caitlyn.
Finally, after a long pause, Vi managed to mumble
“… sweet?”
“Is that a question ?” Caitlyn smirked.
“No—no,” Vi quickly corrected herself.
“I like a girl... I like a girl who’s sweet…” Sweet like you
“That’s all?” Caitlyn asked, tilting her head slightly.
“Is there anything more important in a person than kindness?”
Caitlyn hummed in response, lifting her pen and jotting something down.
“Alright,” she said smoothly, flipping to the next page. “Next question.”
Wait. What? Isn’t it my turn?! Vi thought, staring at Caitlyn in disbelief.
“What’s your love language?” Caitlyn continued, completely ignoring Vi’s confusion.
“Huh? What’s that?” Vi asked, brows furrowing.
“Love language—it’s how you prefer or receive love” Caitlyn explained.
“Still lost here. Wanna give me an example?” Vi asked she knew Caitlyn didn’t fully understand how this game was supposed to work. They were supposed to take turns answering questions, or at the very least, both answer them.
But Caitlyn wasn’t budging, so Vi figured she might as well get some clarity in return.
“For example, love languages include Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Physical Touch, Acts of Service, and Receiving Gifts. ”
“Okay, got it… hmm” Vi paused, thinking. “I guess it depends on the person.”
“You don't seem to grasp fully....what if” Caitlyn started, and Vi could swear she saw the gears turning in the vice president’s head. “You had a girl you liked… as sweet as you say you prefer … how would you—" she paused
"What love language would you express to her .....and what love language would you wish to receive from her ?" from me
Caitlyn’s voice dropped to a whisper as she leaned forward slightly. Vi found herself leaning in too, caught up in the moment.
“Oh yeah?” Vi smirked, trying to play it cool.
Caitlyn simply hummed in response, her eyes locked onto Vi’s.
“Well” Vi exhaled, her voice taking on a teasing edge, “I guess if I had a girl that is sweet on me… she’d already know exactly what I like.”
“That doesn’t answer my question” Caitlyn pressed, narrowing her eyes.
“And why are you so persistent about this, Kiramman ?” Vi shot back.
The way she said Caitlyn’s last name sent a ripple of tension between them. They were too close now, and Caitlyn suddenly feared Vi might hear how fast her heart was beating.
“It’s part of the game” Caitlyn finally said, leaning back, putting distance between them once again.
For just a split second, Vi thought she saw something flicker across Caitlyn’s face—was it disappointment?
“Like I said” Vi continued, pretending not to notice, “it depends on the person. If I love someone for everything they do for me—from buying me a gift to just spending time with me—I’d appreciate it.”
Caitlyn still didn’t seem satisfied with that answer, but she knew when to let a battle go.
"You sound lovesick. Miss Fortune finally snag you up? " Caitlyn pouted, her gaze fixed on the magazine in her hands.
Vi chuckled, reaching out to gently tilt Caitlyn’s face toward her, forcing their eyes to meet once again.
A smirk tugged at Vi’s lips as she took in Caitlyn’s moody expression—adorable, really. It was no secret that Caitlyn harbored a certain animosity toward the Bilgewater tycoon’s successor.
"As if" Vi scoffed, shaking her head with a quiet laugh.
Then, her grip on Caitlyn’s chin softened, her thumb brushing against her skin for just a second longer than necessary before removing it.
"But enough about her," Vi continued, voice lower now, teasing. "It’s me and you here."
Me and you.
Caitlyn’s plan was working!
Everything was going exactly as she had planned—just a few more questions until the grand finale.
She had ] commissioned one of the design students to create a custom magazine filled with very specific questions—questions Caitlyn needed to ask Vi. Things like her ideal partner, dream romantic date, dream gifts , favorite jewelry items, and more. And then, the final question:
"Do you have romantic feelings for your partner?"
Vi would have no way to dodge it. No way to run. She’d have to confess, and then—
"You know what? Let’s change things up" Vi said suddenly, snatching the magazine from Caitlyn’s hands.
Caitlyn’s heart nearly stopped.
Vi looked at the questions, humming thoughtfully, before smirking. “Ooo, this is a good one. What’s a pet name you’d like to be called?”
And just like that, the tables had turned.
Caitlyn’s confident composure cracked as she stiffened, her face heating up. "T-That’s not how this works! I ask you the questions!"
"But where’s the fun in that?" Vi teased, raising an eyebrow. "C’mon, answer kitty cait- oh I bet you liked that ? or was it too playful is baby girl better?"
Caitlyn could feel the redness creeping up her neck. The plan was going so smoothly, and then Vi had to throw a curveball!
"I—I don’t like pet names!" an outright lie "They’re not befitting of my stature."
"Oh, stature, huh?" Vi drawled, raising the magazine above Caitlyn’s reach. "Oh, I know something you’d like."
Caitlyn lunged for it. "Oh, you do ? Please, enlighten me."
Vi only grinned, keeping the magazine just out of reach as Caitlyn tried to grab it. Neither of them noticed how close they were getting, bodies leaning into each other as the struggle continued. Their faces were mere centimeters apart.
"I think you’d like to be called something cute, " Vi teased, her voice dropping ever so slightly.
"Vi, give me my magazine! " Caitlyn huffed, reaching again.
Vi, humoring her, finally gave up—but not before playfully bonking Caitlyn on the head with the magazine.
Caitlyn froze in pure shock.
Vi burst into laughter. The look on Caitlyn’s face was priceless, and so was the position they had ended up in—Vi teetering on the edge of the couch, barely holding her balance, and Caitlyn practically on top of her. One of Caitlyn’s knees was planted on Vi’s thigh as she tried to gain height, one hand reaching for the magazine—while the other...
Oh.
Oh.
The horror on her face made Vi laugh even harder before she finally tossed the magazine onto the table. Without even thinking, she effortlessly lifted Caitlyn off her lap and set her properly back onto the couch like it was nothing.
"You okay, Princess ?" Vi smirked. "You look kinda red. Lemme get you some water."
Princess.
The moment the word left Vi’s lips, she was done for.
She barely even noticed Vi getting up to fetch the water—her brain was still buffering.
Vi was back before Caitlyn even realized, a fresh glass of water in hand. She placed it gently between Caitlyn’s hands, and Caitlyn took a few meek sips to calm herself before setting the glass back on the table.
Before either of them could speak, Caitlyn’s phone alarm suddenly went off.
"I have to—"
"Before you—"
They both stopped, speaking at the same time. Caitlyn mentally kicked herself for interrupting Vi.
Vi just chuckled. "We should get you downstairs. Don’t wanna keep your chauffeur waiting."
"He can wait" Caitlyn replied, tilting her head. "What was it you wanted to say?"
Vi hesitated for a second before shaking her head. "It’s fine. Don’t worry about it, Cait."
She stood up, grabbed Caitlyn’s bag, and swung it over her shoulder with ease. "I’ll put your magazine with the rest of your stuff. Y’know, the stuff you can’t take home without your mom blowing a gasket."
That made Caitlyn give a small smile .
When Vi first found out how strict Cassandra Kiramman was, she made a special place in the student council room for all of Caitlyn’s little hyper fixations —from teen romance novels to aircraft manuals. It was their secret spot.
They walked side by side down toward the gates, and—right on cue—Caitlyn’s car was already waiting. Vi strolled up to the door and opened it for her without a second thought.
"Need a ride home?" Caitlyn asked.
"Don’t worry about it, all my stuff is still upstairs, and I need to stop at a few places anyway."
Caitlyn climbed into the car, and Vi handed her bag over. Just as she was about to close the door, Caitlyn paused and stopped the motion.
"Vi… what was it you wanted to say?"
Vi hesitated again.
"Don’t say it’s fine ," Caitlyn warned.
Vi let out a breath, then smirked.
"I hope you’re free on Valentine’s Day, Princess ."
Caitlyn’s heart stopped.
And then, before she could even react, Vi shut the door with a playful wink, walking away like she hadn’t just turned Caitlyn’s entire world upside down.
Today's battle results
Vi wins
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It was the day before Valentine’s, and calling Piltover Academy chaotic would be an understatement.
Much to her dismay, Vi had been forced to wake up early on a Sunday morning —all so she could head to the academy alongside the other club and class presidents to authorize and finalize everything for the next day.
So how, exactly, had she ended up in a makeup chair ?
"Stay still—I’m doing your eyeliner, and you don’t want me to mess it up. Unless, of course, you’re going for the raccoon look," Sarah teased.
Vi mentally rolled her eyes. If she actually did roll them, Sarah would probably stab her with the eyeliner.
They were going for a punk aesthetic, which meant Vi was decked out in fishnet mesh over her legs and torso. She wore a crop top featuring a broken heart design—one that conveniently showed off her abs, exactly as Miss Fortune had planned. Completing the look were a pair of shorts and an array of spiky jewelry that wasn’t really Vi’s style, but she wore it anyway. Fighting Sarah over fashion choices again wasn’t worth the effort.
"Okay, done!" Sarah practically shoved a mirror in Vi’s face. "What do you think?"
Vi examined herself. The makeup was definitely different —red and dark brown eyeshadow blended together with sharp eyeliner, and a broken heart stenciled on her cheek as the final touch. Vi wouldn’t lie—the colors actually did compliment her vibrant hair, something not easily achieved.
"Not bad" Vi admitted.
"I know , right?" Sarah grinned, clearly pleased with her work. "Okay, now all we need to do is get you to Fiora to take the photos so we can promote our stall—with the President’s face as our advertisement, I’m sure all your groupies will come running."
Vi smirked. "oh yeah groupies?"
Sarah gave her a knowing look "Dont act smug you know you are the hottest person in this fancy shithole" not even trying to hide her amusement Vi laughed.
"I’ll be here the whole time—I am your biggest fan, after all."
Vi felt a pang of guilt. She had tried— and failed —to replace the Caitlyn-shaped hole in her heart with someone else. Thankfully, her thing with Sarah had never gone beyond a few flirty conversations, but that was all in the past. The problem was, Sarah didn’t see it that way .
"You got Valentine’s Day plans?" Sarah asked casually.
"As a matter of fact i do, I’ll be ranking all the stalls with Cait for the grand prize."
Sarah hummed in response. After a moment, she stepped back, her gaze locking onto Vi’s. There was something unreadable in her expression.
"You’re still running around with that uptight vice president?"
Vi grinned. "Cait’s still got a sweet tooth for bad girls."
Sarah scoffed. "So when are you finally gonna tie the knot? Everyone already thinks you two are an item. It’d save half the girls here the embarrassment of trying to steal you from someone who isn’t even yours."
"You meant save you the embarrassment?" Vi shot back without much hesitation even she knew it was uncalled.
Sarah didn’t answer. Instead, she spun on her heel and started walking toward the photoshoot.
"You coming or not?" she called over her shoulder.
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"Aww, Miss Kiramman, you look gorgeous " Maddie Nolan cooed.
Caitlyn stood up from her seat and walked to the mirror, she stared into it barely recognizing herself.
She certainly looked different.
Her long midnight-blue hair was nowhere to be seen, hidden beneath a soft strawberry-blonde wig topped with a purple beret. She wore a cute purple skirt paired with a cropped pink jersey and a statement heartthrob jacket. Hearts were scattered all over her outfit—even on her platform boots that elevated her height. Her makeup was minimal, just a touch of blush and highlight, but it was enough to complete the look.
All this effort—for a photoshoot.
"You did a good job, Miss Nolan" Caitlyn admitted, tilting her head slightly as she admired the transformation. She had to admit, she looked cute. She wondered what sort of torture Sarah had Vi under—after all, she had practically snatched Vi away the moment she saw her. At least Maddie had been kind enough to ask permission.
"Well, it's easy when the model is as beautiful as you" Maddie murmured, her voice just above a whisper as a blush crept onto her cheeks.
Caitlyn pitied the girl—it was obvious she harbored feelings for her. But Caitlyn’s heart had already been captured by Vi.
"Thank you, that's awfully kind of you to say," Caitlyn replied, forcing a polite smile as she looked down at Maddie, even without the boots Caitlyn was still significantly taller than the ginger.
If Maddie noticed how strained her smile was, she didn’t show it. Instead, she beamed, fluttering her lashes as she took Caitlyn’s hands in hers. The boldness of the gesture shocked Caitlyn.
"I know tomorrow is going to be a whirlwind, but once everything is over, I... I know this place—"
"I cant!" Caitlyn quickly blurted out "I'm sorry, I can't—I don't—" she said while quickly pulling her hands away.
"Oh! I'm sorry," Maddie looked mortified. "I shouldn’t have assumed you were into—"
"No!" Caitlyn practically shouted , wincing at how loud she was. "No, no—I am into girls. Only girls," she corrected herself.
"Then what's the problem?"
"I-I have my eyes on someone else."
"Does she have eyes for you?"
"I... think so?" Caitlyn admitted. She didn’t know why she was being so honest. Maybe she just needed to talk to someone about her pent-up feelings for Vi someone who wasn't the voices in her head or her dairy.
"Well, then, she’s an idiot if she doesn’t want you."
Caitlyn chuckled. "Trust me, I’ve been just as much of an idiot as her."
"Hey, none of that," Maddie playfully scolded. "we gotta get to Fiora for the photoshoot before Sarah crashes a ship into the academy hall."
.
"Wow." That was all Vi could muster when she saw Caitlyn walking down the hallway.
She looked stunning—different, but stunning. This was the first time Vi had ever seen Caitlyn out of her uniform, and somehow, everything about her outfit was just working for Vi. Though, if she were being honest, she wished Maddie had ditched the wig and let Caitlyn’s natural midnight-blue hair flow freely.
"Okay, now that everyone's here!" Fiora clapped her hands together to grab everyone's attention. "Vi, I need you leaning up against the lockers. Caitlyn, you're going to walk through the crowd. We'll take a couple of shots and see how they look—oh, and here are some props!"
Before either of them could protest, the supporting students practically shoved the accessories into their hands. Vi found herself holding gauntlets and a bottle, while Caitlyn was weighed down with a suitcase and a stack of books.
They positioned themselves as Fiora instructed. Vi leaned back against the lockers, one leg propped up for balance, giving off that effortless punk-rock energy. Caitlyn— Princess Kiramman —glided through the crowd with grace that only she could pull off.
Vi swallowed hard. She hated the way Caitlyn made her feel—like some scrappy street rat out of place in her presence. She hated how no matter how many people were watching, Caitlyn’s gaze alone sent butterflies fluttering wildly in her stomach but that gaze was cold and so was Vi's.
They were both thinking about how deeply in love they were with each other—and how terribly wrong everything could go.
The weight of unspoken words hung between them, heavier than the props in their hands. Vi could feel her pulse quicken as Caitlyn eyes poured into hers, and Caitlyn, despite her well-practiced composure, felt her carefully built walls crumble just a little under Vi’s gaze.
"Yes, that's the look!" Fiora shouted excitedly.
Both girls turned their heads toward her in surprise.
That was the look?
"YES! I see the vision now!" Fiora gestured animatedly. "I need you both to give each other a scornful look—but with hidden affection. You catch my drift?"
"Actually, I don’t—" Caitlyn started, only for Fiora to cut her off.
"Alright, from the top!"
Sarah let out a soft chuckle and leaned in slightly. "Come on, Cait. You do know how to scowl , don’t you?"
That lit a fire in Caitlyn.
"Yes! That’s the look, Kiramman!" Fiora beamed. "See? You’re a natural! Now, just turn that same expression toward Vi."
And at this moment, Caitlyn found that it wasn’t difficult at all to challenge that expression.
.
Caitlyn had been giving Vi the cold shoulder ever since the photoshoot. She barely spoke to her, wouldn’t meet her eyes, and had even called her chauffeur earlier than expected to go home. Worst of all, she hadn’t let Vi help carry her things—something she usually allowed without question. Instead, she had a junior escort her to the car, completely shutting Vi out.
Vi wanted to vomit from the stress.
Had Caitlyn found someone new?
Someone better?
Someone she actually wanted to be with?
To say Vi was spiraling was an understatement. Every worst-case scenario played on a loop in her mind, each one worse than the last.
She had to bite the bullet and make a move on Caitlyn—before it was too late.
Today's battle results
inconclusive
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It was late at night, and the only company Caitlyn had was the moon and the cold wind blowing softly through her silky hair. She wandered the academy grounds, searching for any trace of the Day of Love, but everything had already been packed away—erased, as if it had never happened.
"Well, look who we have here" a voice echoed in Caitlyn’s ear.
She whipped around instinctively, her heart leaping into her throat.
Vi stood there, looking so effortlessly handsome that Caitlyn's knees nearly buckled.
She wore a tailored black suit, the fabric hugging her frame perfectly, with a deep red button-up underneath—though the top three buttons were undone, revealing just enough to make Caitlyn's face heat up. Her hair was neater than usual, though two stubborn strands still poked out in defiance, something Caitlyn found endearing. The side of her head was shaved a little more than before, her freckles stood out more, giving her a warmth that made Caitlyn’s stomach twist. But what truly held her gaze were Vi’s lips—full, inviting, and painted in a smirk that made her weak.
She wanted to kiss them. She wanted to turn them an even deeper shade of red.
Before she could let her mind wander any further, Vi’s voice snapped her back to reality.
"I thought you weren’t going to make it."
Caitlyn hesitated. Her mother had forbidden her from attending the academy’s Valentine’s festival, calling it foolish and unbefitting of a Kiramman. When Vi found out from Professor Talis, her heart had sunk. She knew how much Caitlyn wanted to experience something like this—how much she longed for the ordinary joys that her status often denied her.
"I’m a misfit too, I suppose?" Caitlyn murmured.
Vi raised a brow, amused. "You might be the only girl I know who calls herself a misfit after sneaking out of her parents' mansion."
"You know other girls?" Caitlyn teased, tilting her head.
That earned her a soft chuckle. "None that captivate me like you."
Butterflies erupted in Caitlyn’s stomach. She was no stranger to Vi’s flirtation, but this felt different. This wasn’t just a game of cat and mouse anymore. This was real.
"I had a feeling you’d show up," Vi admitted.
"Is that why you’re here?" Caitlyn asked, glancing around at the empty courtyard. They were the only ones left.
"Made a deal with the professor to sneak out of the hostel and wait for you."
"And you knew you’d find me here?"
"Of course," Vi said with a knowing grin. "I know you well enough… I just didn’t think you’d wear something this cute."
Caitlyn’s face burned as she instinctively buried it in her hands, shivering slightly against the wind. She had chosen a thin, flowing white dress for the night, and if Vi wasn’t in her right mind, she might have thought this was another one of her dreams—one of those hazy, wishful things she always woke from too soon.
Without hesitation, Vi shrugged off her jacket and draped it over Caitlyn’s shoulders, the warmth instantly enveloping her. Before Caitlyn could react, Vi leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.
Caitlyn took a deep breath softly tensing up.
This was the closest they had ever been. And Vi—Vi had just kissed her.
"Vi, I have—"
"Wait" Vi interrupted, her voice low and soothing. "Not yet. I want to show you something."
"But, Vi, I really—"
"I promise," Vi said, taking Caitlyn’s hand and lacing their fingers together. "You can tell me whatever you want… just after I’m done with you."
And who was Caitlyn to disagree when Vi took Caitlyns hand into her own and started to walk to the rooftop
What Caitlyn was met with was something not even her dreams could have prepared her for.
Vi had created a stargazing space just for them. Blankets and cushions were scattered across the ground, making it look impossibly cozy. And amidst it all was what seemed like an endless supply of Caitlyn’s favorite candies.
How did Vi—?
"You gonna take a seat next to me, princess?"
Vi was already settled in, leaning back comfortably as she patted the space beside her. Caitlyn hesitated only for a moment before bending down to sit next to her, heart pounding in her chest.
"Oh, Vi…" was all Caitlyn could muster before her vision blurred with tears.
Nestled in the pile of cushions, waiting just for her, were two stuffed bunnies—one blueberry blue and the other strawberry pink.
Vi stiffened when she saw the tears, quickly reaching out to wipe them away with the pads of her thumbs. "Hey, none of that now," she huffed, though her touch was nothing but gentle. But it was no use; Caitlyn’s tears just kept falling as she clutched the stuffed animals close to her chest.
Vi let out a small, nervous breath and placed her fingers under Caitlyn’s chin, tilting her head up so their eyes met.
"I know today meant a lot to you," Vi admitted, her voice soft, careful. "And I—I didn’t want you to miss out on everything. So, I brought the best parts here for you."
Vi knew she was rambling, but how could she not? She had spent all day trying to come up with the perfect way to confess to Caitlyn—trying to make it smooth, memorable, romantic. But now Caitlyn was full-blown sobbing, and Vi wasn’t sure if that was a good or bad thing.
She had even begged Fiora to let her borrow her Polaroid camera to capture the moment. But now? Pictures were the last thing on either of their minds.
"Caitlyn, what I’m trying to say is—mmh—"
Vi’s words were cut off by the softest touch.
Lips.
Before she even realized what was happening, Caitlyn was kissing her. And just as quickly as it happened, it was over.
"I love you," Caitlyn whispered.
Vi barely had time to process it before Caitlyn continued, her voice fragile but unwavering.
"I’ve loved you for so long," she confessed, fresh tears slipping down her cheeks. "Nobody understands me the way you do. I’ve been pretending my whole life—pretending to be someone I’m not, someone I was told I had to be. But with you… with you, I can just be Caitlyn. No extra titles, no expectations. Just me."
Vi tightened her grip on Caitlyn’s hands, grounding her as her confession spilled out in waves.
"I love who I am when I’m with you," Caitlyn continued. "I know I can get jealous and controlling, but it’s only because it drives me crazy that I’m not yours. And because of how much time we’ve wasted—"
More tears fell, and Vi could see the fear in her eyes. The fear of rejection.
Vi squeezed her hands tighter. "Oh, Caitlyn," she murmured, voice thick with emotion. "I love you so much more than you’ll ever realize. And I’ll spend every single day making sure you know just how much you mean to me."
There it was.
The words Caitlyn had dreamt of hearing for the longest time. And yet, it still felt bittersweet.
"Vi, we can’t have a normal relationship," Caitlyn said quietly, eyes darting away. "You know my family—"
"You haven’t even met mine," Vi teased, but there was no humor in her tone. "We’re going to make this work, Cait. We’ve spent too much time dancing around each other to give up now. And you’ve poured out too many tears to throw away that sappy love confession."
Caitlyn let out a watery giggle, and for the first time that night, Vi saw her smile—the real one, the one with her little gap tooth on display.
It made Vi’s heart ache in the best way.
"Oh, and thanks for hijacking my confession," Vi huffed. "I had a whole speech planned, you know."
Caitlyn tilted her head. "Oh yeah? Care to tell me more about that little speech?"
Vi grinned, her fingers reaching up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind Caitlyn’s ear. "Another time," she murmured. "Right now, I just want to hold and kiss the girl I’ve been pining over since the second I saw her pretty little smile."
And this time, Caitlyn didn’t hold back.
Today's battle results
Caitlyn 1