What freedom feels like

“Caitlyn Anastasia Evelyne Kiramman.”

The voice came through the phone’s speaker, crisp and clipped, echoing around the hush of the dining room. Mel’s image filled the screen, her expression carefully balancing stern disapproval and genuine concern.

“You’d better have a very good reason for going MIA on me,” she continued a wry arch to her brow. “Because I can’t handle your parents’ meltdown all by myself, you know.”

Her tone had a sharp edge, but beneath it lay an unmistakable undercurrent of warmth—as if her every word was also a silent check for Caitlyn’s well-being. Caitlyn swallowed, acutely aware of all eyes on her, the tension at the table thick enough to taste.

Mel exhaled, steeling herself before launching into a brisk summary. “So, following yesterday’s… discussion, we initially leaned toward a blanket denial of the footage. But I’ve had time to reflect on what you said—particularly about how past scandals were handled and how that left you feeling sidelined.”

She paused, her gaze drifting to Caitlyn with a noticeable twinge of sympathy. “I remember how overshadowed your own needs were back then. I don’t want to repeat that.”

Taking another measured breath, Mel straightened, pressing on. “After combing through the trending hashtags and sentiment data overnight, it might actually serve you better to confirm that the video is real. We’d direct public sympathy toward what really happened, instead of letting people run wild with guesswork.”

Her voice softened, eyes flicking back to Caitlyn’s uncertain expression. “Your parents, of course, want denial. But you deserve a chance to speak your truth in a way that benefits you, not just the palace. And the sentiment suggests authenticity could resonate more with people—they want to support you, if they sense honesty.”

She caught Caitlyn’s eye again, letting a brief moment of compassion shine through. “It’s your decision, Caitlyn. You’ve been caught in the middle too many times. If you decide to go forward with the truth, we’ll handle it together—on your terms. If not… we’ll find another strategy.”

Caitlyn parted her lips to speak, but Mel lifted a hand, eyes flicking back to her screen. “Just think about it. Are you prepared to acknowledge it’s you in the footage—and maybe even clarify who you were with? Or do we stick to a neutral statement that condemns harassment but stops short of confirming anything?”

Caitlyn parted her lips to speak, the beginnings of resolve sparking in her eyes. “I’m tired of hiding Mel. I—I do want to say something,” she began softly.

Mel inclined her head, but before Caitlyn could finish, she tapped a few keys on her laptop, her tone turning cautious. “Just keep in mind, there’s also the issue of #GuarddogTag. Once people confirm it’s you in the footage, they’ll inevitably zoom in on the pink-haired friend who stepped in—your friend.”

Caitlyn’s grip on her phone tightened. Out of frame, Vi sat close enough for their thighs to touch, a silent pillar of support. The mention of her pink hair made Caitlyn’s stomach twist. She nodded once, breathing through the nerves.

“And while the public might love her heroics, some might focus on the fact that she fought those men. Legally or not, it’s still violence, and it could draw unwanted attention her way.”

At those words, Vi inhaled sharply from just off-camera, her expression a mixture of determination and anxiety. “If that’s what it takes for Caitlyn to speak her truth, I can handle any blowback,” she said, voice fierce despite the tremor underlining it. “I’m not letting her shoulder all of this alone.”

Caitlyn spun, hand rising to cradle Vi’s cheek, her heart lurching at the thought of Vi being scapegoated. “No, you shouldn’t have to—”

Vi cut her off gently, lifting her hand to Caitlyn’s, caressing it softly, as though to say she’d already made up her mind. “I’m prepared to deal with whatever comes next if it means you get your justice.”

A brief hush settled as Mel watched their exchange, lips pressing together in thought. She could sense the devotion between them—knew it would be a factor in whatever statement they crafted next. The tension in the air felt electric, like everything balanced on Caitlyn’s next breath.

For a moment, Mel’s eyes flicked to the side, catching sight of Vi’s face as she leaned into Caitlyn’s touch. The intimacy of the gesture was impossible to miss. Mel’s posture softened noticeably, and a small, knowing smirk curved her lips. “So this is the pink-haired friend I’ve heard so much about,” she remarked, a subtle warmth lacing her words.

Caitlyn groaned in embarrassment, hastily pulling her hand back. “Mel, please—don’t tell my parents.”

Mel gave a gentle laugh. “I won’t. But now I have an even clearer sense of the situation. Let me make a few calls, iron out some details. Give me two minutes.”

“Alright,” Caitlyn murmured, swallowing her nerves. “We’ll be here.”

Mel disconnected, and the screen went dark. Powder, Mylo, and Claggor eyed Vi and Caitlyn with open curiosity, while Vander and Grayson lingered at the edge of the room, equally absorbed by the unfolding drama.

A flush crept up Vi’s neck, and she ducked her head. “Sorry,” she muttered to Caitlyn. “I didn’t mean to jump on camera like that—”

Caitlyn silenced Vi with a tender kiss, leaning in close and brushing her thumb over Vi’s cheek. The sudden show of affection caught Vi slightly off guard—she’d never been one for public displays of affection, at least not while sober. A rush of warmth bloomed in her chest, all the more surprising because Caitlyn was so at ease doing this in front of her family.

“You’re in this now,” Caitlyn murmured softly, “and I’m standing by you—just like you did for me.”

Vi’s pulse hammered, still reeling from the unexpected kiss. But the devotion in Caitlyn’s eyes melted any discomfort she felt, and she allowed herself a small, breathless smile.

Before Vi could reply, Caitlyn’s phone buzzed again. The screen lit up with Mel calling once more, pulling the entire household into silence. Caitlyn inhaled, bracing herself for whatever awaited, then tapped to answer.

This time, Vi didn’t bother slipping out of sight. Instead, she slid over, draping an arm around Caitlyn as though it were the most natural thing in the world. When Mel’s face filled the screen, her stern expression momentarily softened—relief flickering in her eyes at the sight of Caitlyn looking so at ease, snug against Vi’s side. A hint of affection tugged at her features, and Caitlyn couldn’t help but breathe a little easier in response.

“All right,” Mel began, her tone brisk but undeniably warm. “I’m going to release a vague statement today about this entire situation, just enough to maintain a narrative. But in a few days, we’ll need something more substantial—a statement from you that addresses the assault, the footage, everything.”

Caitlyn nodded, her throat tight. “I understand.”

Mel offered a tight smile. “I’ve also been given the green light to fly to Arizona.”

Caitlyn’s eyebrows shot up. “Wait—what? Why?”

Mel tapped a pen against her notepad, running a quick glance at her computer screen. “Because I need to handle the PR strategy in person, and your cousin Jayce is coming too. He’ll soak up some of the spotlight—take heat off you and your pink-haired friend there.” Mel’s gaze shifted to Vi as she said it, and her head tilted inquisitively. “Speaking of which, do I get a name?”

Vi darted an uncertain glance at Caitlyn but cleared her throat. “Uh, Vi. I’m just… Vi.”

Mel inclined her head, satisfied. “Well, Vi, pleased to finally meet you—even if it’s just through a screen.” Her gaze shifted back to Caitlyn, a hint of reassurance in her expression. “We’ll be in Arizona by late tomorrow night. Between the two of us, we can handle any immediate press conferences or interview requests—maybe set you up with a major American outlet to steer the narrative in your favour. Does that sound reasonable, Caitlyn?”

Stunned, Caitlyn’s eyes widened. She swallowed and let out a small, breathy, “Thank you,” her tone low but earnest. It was all she could manage in the moment; the rest of her gratitude shone in her gaze.

Mel’s expression softened at Caitlyn’s low, earnest tone. “I’m just doing my job, making sure you’re safe and heard,” she said, then hesitated. A flicker of regret flickered across her features. “I know I haven’t always been on your side during the… other scandals. I realise now how much you were overshadowed.” She paused, meeting Caitlyn’s gaze. “I want to fix that, to make it up to you, starting now.”

She cleared her throat, shifting back into her professional demeanour. “Speaking of safety—your parents are eager for an update on how you’re holding up. Would you be okay with adding them to this call? They’re on standby.”

A flicker of panic darted across Caitlyn’s face. Her gaze snapped to Vi. What would her parents say upon seeing Vi? But then Caitlyn exhaled and settled her shoulders. “Uh, Sure,” she agreed quietly. “Just—Vi…” She trailed off pointedly.

Vi got the message loud and clear. She gave Caitlyn’s hand a gentle squeeze, then slipped her arm from around her waist. With a quiet scrape of the chair’s legs, Vi shuffled backward, just out of the camera’s view, yet close enough that Caitlyn could still sense her reassuring presence.

“Perfect,” Mel said. “Give me just a moment to patch them in.”

Mel tapped her screen, and a second later, the call expanded to include Caitlyn’s parents.

“Caitlyn, my dear,” came Tobias’s voice, resonating through the speaker with palpable relief. “Are you alright?”

She mustered a small, apologetic smile. “I’m fine, Dad, really,” she said quietly. “Sorry for… everything.” She wasn’t sure how else to sum it up, her heart thudding as she waited for whatever came next.

Cassandra’s lips pressed into a thin line. “I hope you have a good explanation for all this,” she said, her tone clipped but with a faint undercurrent of relief. “At least you’re safe.”

Mel cleared her throat, stepping back into view. “I wanted to update you both personally. I’ll be flying to Arizona tomorrow to manage this situation from the ground. Our goal is a more controlled narrative, not all these wild speculations.”

Cassandra inclined her head. “I’m grateful. Someone needs to keep an eye on Caitlyn to ensure no further mishaps.”

Mel offered a polite nod, scanning her notes. “We need another angle to divert the media from hounding Caitlyn. There’s already buzz about the pink-haired girl in the video—someone who fought off the attackers.”

Cassandra’s features tensed at the mention. “Yes, I’ve seen references to this so-called pink-haired ‘guard dog.’” She paused, then added with a sceptical arch to her brow, “Who is this girl, exactly?”

Caitlyn opened her mouth to respond, but Vi—hovering just out of frame—let out a scoff at the title “guard dog,” not quite managing to stifle her displeasure. Caitlyn shot Vi a pointed look, trying to hush her without speaking.

Cassandra’s eyes narrowed. “Is she there right now?” she pressed, her attention clearly shifting to the space where Vi lurked. “I’d like a bit more clarity on who’s been so intimately involved in this scandal.”

Caitlyn faltered, exchanging an uneasy glance with Vi, who shrugged apologetically. Their silent exchange spoke volumes, but it left Cassandra brimming with more questions than answers.

Cassandra’s focus stayed locked on the place where Caitlyn had cast a furtive glance, pressing her further. “Caitlyn, who is that girl? I’d like a name at least.”

Tobias chimed in gently, trying to defuse the tension. “Might just be a friend helping Caitlyn in a tough situation, My love. Let’s not assume the worst.”

Cassandra released a tight sigh. “Mm. Perhaps. Though I’d feel more at ease knowing every detail about someone so intimately involved in a scandal that’s exploded on social media.”

Mel nodded in acknowledgment. “I understand your concern, ma’am. We’ll address the pink-haired individual carefully. But as it stands, the public doesn’t have her identity—only speculation.”

Cassandra pursed her lips, a flicker of curiosity sparking in her eyes. “For Caitlyn’s sake, I hope it remains that way.”

Cassandra narrowed her eyes but didn’t let up. She scanned the video call’s background, noticing the distinctly different surroundings. “If you’re not at the Kiramman estate,” she said slowly, “where are you right now?”

Caitlyn swallowed hard, darting a quick look at Mel. She recognized the flicker of disapproval on her mother’s face, but forced herself to remain calm. “I—I’m somewhere safe,” she managed, trying not to lock eyes with Vi offscreen. “That’s all that matters right now, isn’t it?”

At that cue, Grayson emerged from the kitchen, giving a small wave. “Captain Ahmadova, Grayson Ahmadova,” she introduced herself, wearing casual clothes instead of her uniform. “Apologies for the informal attire—I wanted to keep this discreet. But rest assured, Caitlyn is safe with us.”

Cassandra’s brows lifted. “Thank you for finding her. Will you escort her back to the estate now?”

Grayson nodded in acknowledgement. “Yes, ma’am. Whenever she’s ready.”

Caitlyn’s shoulders slumped a little, guilt flashing in her eyes. “I’m sorry,” she said quietly, looking between her parents and Mel. “I didn’t mean to vanish or worry everyone. I was just… overwhelmed.”

Tobias gave a rueful half-smile. “You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed, sweetheart,” he said softly. Cassandra’s tense posture loosened, and she let out a breath.

“We’re just relieved you’re unharmed,” Cassandra added, her voice calmer now.

Mel glanced at Caitlyn, businesslike again. “I’ll end this call so Captain Ahmadova can bring you home, and Jayce and I will see you soon. We can finalise the statements and sort out the press then. Sound good?”

“Yes,” Caitlyn said, exhaling. “Thank you.” Everyone said their goodbyes and the screen cut off.

Silence lingered for a moment before Caitlyn let out a shaky sigh and slumped into Vi’s open embrace as if Vi had predicted exactly what she needed. “I feel like I can finally breathe,” she murmured, burying her face in Vi’s shoulder. After a heartbeat, she pulled back, a small grin lighting her features. “And Jayce coming here… He’ll get along with everyone, I bet.” She let out a soft laugh at the thought of Jayce setting foot in Arizona again—there was something almost absurd about it, yet underneath that was a quiet thrill. “Honestly, I’m a little excited for him to meet you,” she admitted, tipping her head back to look at Vi. “You’ll finally get to know someone from my side of the family.”

Vi grinned, a spark of genuine excitement lighting her eyes. “Honestly, I can’t wait to meet some of your family,” she admitted softly, giving Caitlyn’s hand a quick squeeze. But before they could delve further, Grayson cleared her throat, reminding them of her presence. “Alright, Young Kiramman,” she said gently, “ready to head back to your estate?”

Caitlyn hesitated, eyes darting to Vi and then to Vander, Powder, Mylo, and Claggor. “Could I stay… just a little longer?” she asked, gaze almost pleading.

Grayson opened her mouth for an automatic refusal, but the collective puppy-dog stares from the siblings—and especially from Vi—made her pause. A faint smile curved her lips. “I suppose I’m not one to go against a Princess’s wishes,” she conceded, mock-reluctant. “I’ll come back later today to pick you up.”

Caitlyn lit up, a grateful grin replacing her worry. She quickly wrapped Grayson in a spontaneous hug, catching the sheriff off guard. Stiffening at first, Grayson slowly returned the embrace, clearing her throat again as she pulled away.

“Alright, I’ll leave you to it,” Grayson said, tipping an imaginary hat. “See you in a few hours.”