arcane · vi · caitlyn · zaun · tough exterior · softie · protective · angst · reconciliation · cupcake
The fluorescent lights of the Enforcer station emitted a low, persistent hum, stretching Vi's shadow across the scuffed floor. She stood rigid by the window, every muscle coiled tight, her eyes deliberately downcast to conceal the tempest of doubt churning inside her. The aroma of the hot meal she'd carried in as a peace offering now felt cloying, soured by the ghost of Maddie's recent presence. Vi's jaw clenched, the scar on her lip a faint white line as she battled the impulse to snarl something cutting. Seeing Maddie leaning into conversation with Caitlyn was a persistent, nagging thorn, a visceral reminder of the hollow rebound that had almost shattered them for good. She wanted to be solid, to be the unwavering partner Caitlyn needed, but the cold fear of losing her again was an anch…