Vinyl curled her lip in variable disdain, mouth opening to lash out at the woman standing stiffly in the hallway. Octavia scrambled to her feet suddenly and lurched forward, eyes wide with fear.

"Vinyl."

The cellist's voice cut into the spinner's anger, instantly spurring the two-tone player into icy silence. Octavia stepped carefully around the jockey, careful to ignore the blazing fury in the intense red eyes. The player stopped just before the DJ, her free hand sliding backward to grasp Vinyl's hand in silent patience, willing the jockey to still the raging flurry of emotion. Clearing her throat, Octavia straightened slightly, mulberry eyes focused sharply on her mother as she continued a silent war with the incensed spinner. Finally scoffing, Virtuosa dropped her eyes to her daughter, painted mouth hideously curling.

"I'm taking you out of here, Octavia, please get your coat."

Gripping tighter to the spinner, Octavia chanced a small shake of the head, ignoring the wave of dizziness, her eyes tied rebelliously to the red-honey orbs of her mother. Feeling the noticeable, tensing shift of the spinner's forearm muscles, the raven-haired cellist casually slid her thumb down the enraged player's skin, willing the woman to calm. Again Octavia squared, a building resilience offering her the strength to respond to the harrowing figure, the swirling nausea going unnoticed.

"I will not, Virtuosa. I am safe here and I am happy here. There is nothing you can say to make me feel otherwise."

Octavia fought the reflexive wince as she watched her mother's already feral eyes darken. The golden-ruby eyes flicked back up to carefully study the trembling jockey, ignoring the venomous hatred pulsing from the sharp eyes. Snorting, the thin woman smoothed the front of her trench coat, clearly fighting the words she so desperately craved to release. Licking her lips, the poisonous woman snapped her attention back to the cellist, a dark smile twisting the full lips.

"Come now, darling. This little phase of rebellion has gone on quite long enough. Now, you will be getting your coat and following me to the Estate. We'll take care of you there. This harlot will only make things worse."

Vinyl practically snarled as she pressed closer to the woman, trying in vain to ignore the desperate hand still clinging painfully to her forearm.

"You should know a thing or two about harlots, Cash."

Octavia tossed a pleading glance to the jockey, her chest protesting at the angle before she twisted to face forward, breath escaping in a ragged burst as she jerked her head to her mother, a bolt of red-hot pain snaking through her already-frazzled brain.

"You are not welcome here. Please leave or I will let Vinyl do what she is so respectfully refraining from-- for my sake, not yours. Is that perfectly understood?"

Virtuosa narrowed her eyes at the comment, the thin, dark eyebrows rippling the tightly drawn forehead. Stepping over the threshold, the tall woman sneered at the DJ, poignantly disregarding the cellist that glared up at her. Tilting her chin to the fury-laden spinner, Virtuosa cocked a sly smile.

"You and I both know you're keeping her here because of your jealousy, Scratch. But it can't be helped that I'm still here and your mother left you--"

The well-dressed woman jerked back at the sudden fury, a small flash of fear filling the bright eyes as she looked over the DJ, teeth bared dangerously, red eyes torched with a swirling fury. The emotionally taught body stopped against the cellist's free arm and dared no further, agonizingly aware of the cellist's injuries as she snapped her hand up to stop the spinner's forward movement. A foreign growl startled the anger-induced atmosphere, the sudden arrival of the wild pilot drawing a startled gasp from the cellist.

Spitfire shoved between mother and daughter, the large hard case lifted as though it were a weapon, causing the older woman to jerk backward at the sudden intrusion. Spit grunted, honey-brown eyes blazing as she stung the woman with a spiteful glare.

"I'm not tied to Octavia the way Vinyl is, I won't fucking hesitate to tear you the hell apart."

Vinyl jerked forward, grabbing the back of the pilot's shirt as she stood menacingly, body coiled reflexively as she stared down the businesswoman. Smirking, Virtuosa stood to her full height and smiled at the pilot, a deceptively still hand lifting to run through the silken tresses as she pulled her coat tighter around her impossibly thin frame. Tossing a casual glance to the cellist, Virtuosa nodded, a deadly smile tugging at her lips.

"We'll discuss this later, darling. Count on it."

With a last flick of her eyes, Virtuosa smirked devilishly to the DJ before stalking off gracefully down the hall, the sound of her heels echoing eerily in her wake. Spitfire twitched her shoulder before turning around, eyes softening as she studied to two women. Shuffling toward the apartment, the tense pair stepped backward together, drawing a small smile from the flyer. Closing the door behind her, Spit propped up the case by the door and tossed an apologetic look to the cellist.

"Sorry, O. I kinda lose my temper pretty quickly. Are you guys okay? What happened?"

Octavia sighed, the stress in her body flowing out quickly as she leaned against the surrounding heat of the quiet spinner, a flaring weakness swirling within her chest. Vinyl lifted her hand automatically, arm curling lightly around the cellist's midsection, careful of the damaged bones as she pulled the cellist into a loose embrace. Octavia smile merely grew, her free hand sliding upward to gently clasp the spinner's forearm, eyebrows drawing in discontent.

"My mother happened. Thank you, though, for interjecting. Although I'm sure my mother fears Vinyl far more than she fears you, I'm well aware of the fact that she knows I can't control what you do, and that she may have very well been attacked."

Spitfire grinned ruefully, brown eyes dancing with humor.

"I probably would have at least hit her with your cello, even though I would have gotten in a huge amount of trouble."

Jerking a thumb over her shoulder, Spitfire smiled as she acknowledged the case.

"I'm sorry it took so long, Symph made me stop for donuts. She didn't save you any."

Octavia nodded and twisted to look at the spinner, frowning slightly as she noticed a shadow of thought clouding the burning crimson orbs. Turning back toward Spit, she grinned half-heartedly and nodded her thanks to the pilot.

"Thank you, again. It's very much appreciated."

Nodding, the captain shoved her hands in her pockets, eyes fluttering over to watch the pianist. Bobbing her head, she exhaled quickly.

"Yo, Scratch, you alive in there?"

"Yeah, we're good. Thanks, Cap."

"Don't mention it. Night, guys."

Vinyl watched in silence as Spitfire disappeared out the door, closing the heavy piece with a quiet click. Octavia detangled swiftly from the loose embrace, pivoting in place to pin the blue-haired player with an agonized stare, ignoring the crippling dizziness that threatened to buckle the shaking knees.

"Vinyl?"

The player in question simply shrugged and offered a sad smile, a limp hand springing upward to clasp Octavia's free one.

"Don't. It's all good. Are you hungry? I know hospital food is pretty crappy."

Octavia exhaled, eyes fluttering closed as she shook her head. Tossing a tentative glance at the black case, the strings player swallowed the horrible sadness threatening her current state as she followed Vinyl toward the kitchen. Taking a seat at the quaint table set near the kitchen, Octavia grinned as her eyes followed Vinyl as she paced the counters, body floating easily around the clean space. Red eyes appeared to study the cellist quietly, a tiny smile tugging at her lips.

"I'll at least make you some tea. How's your head?"

"Vinyl?"

Stopping in her movement, Vinyl looked up from the stove top.

"Yeah, Tav?"

"About my mother, I--"

Vinyl leaned against the counter, orbs fluttering closed in thought as she raised her hand to silence the guilty words that attempted to tumble from the pained cellist. For long minutes the jockey remained still, lost in a fog of disproportionate images as the biting words echoed around her mind. Breathing deeply, Vinyl slipped her eyes open before stopping the cellist with soulful despair.

"Hey, what your mom does normally doesn't reflect on you. She's not worth my time, okay? And if you really are happy here, then I hope it stays that way. Now, seriously, tea? Toast? Nausea meds?"

Smiling sadly, Octavia settled in the chair and closed her eyes, an incessant drumming picking away at her subconscious.

"Tea, please. And maybe a small piece of toast."

Vinyl continued with her preparations, humming lowly as she moved around the kitchen. Octavia grimaced as she shifted in the chair, the stiffness of the normally comfortable chairs adding a heaviness to her stress-stiffened ribcage. Grunting, the cellist hefted to her feet and staggered toward the large arm chair, smiling gratefully as she slowly deflated into the well-loved cushions. Eyes closed, the cellist's smile widened, pleased at the quiet stillness of the apartment as Vinyl ghosted around her. The warm steam of tea alerted her to the spinner's presence as she knelt beside the chair, offering a strong brew to the still-shaking cellist.

"I know you have a thing for Earl, so I hope that's okay. Cream, no sugar, right?"

Octavia peered thoughtfully at the blue-haired woman, a surprised smile turning her lips.

"Yes... how did you know?"

"I pay attention. Rye toast, no seeds, and margarine, yeah? I hope you can keep it down."

Impressed at the spinner's thoughtfulness, Octavia accepted the plate and placed it neatly on her lap, eyes crinkling as she smiled at the pianist.

"Thank you for being so good to me, Vinyl."

Offering a tiny smile, Vinyl shifted to sit on the coffee table before the injured player, eyes casually scanning the cellist as she carefully sipped the potent brew. Octavia offered an embarrassed smile as she finished only one piece of toast, peacefully offering the remaining to the DJ, smirk widening as the spinner happily accepted. Wriggling carefully, Octavia settled into the soft back of the chair, her fingers idly drumming along the sides of the mug clenched loosely in her hand. Chuckling, the cellist tipped her cup to the spinner as she devoured the food.

"You knew I'd only eat one, didn't you?"

Nodding, Vinyl swallowed her bite and smiled before placing the plate on the table beside her.

"Yeah, I figured. I'm actually a scavenger: I hover near people and scoop up the leftovers."

Humming, Octavia lifted the mug slowly, wary of her bruised side, and took a long drink from the warm liquid. Sighing, the cellist dropped the mug back to her lap, mulberry eyes shifting over toward the cello case still propped patiently against the wall. Sensing the subtle shift, Vinyl rose to her feet to collect the case and reclaimed her spot on the edge of the table, her eyes falling in quiet respect for the cellist. Eyes lifting, Vinyl offered silent support to the newly emotional cellist, hand reaching for the mug as Octavia tilted forward on the seat.

Placing the mug on the table behind her, Vinyl laid the case across her lap and undid both clasps, her hands supporting the large case as she offered it to the cellist. Octavia lifted her free hand to rest heavily on the top of the scuffed hard case, her eyes instantly watering as she envisioned the tattered body of her well-loved cello. Flicking her eyes upward, Octavia bit her lip as she focused on the calm spinner, red eyes glowing with a strong support for the player. Releasing a shuddering breath, Octavia slid her hand down to the flush seam and pushed slightly, lifting the lid.

A strangled cry escaped the cracked lips of the cellist, her hand having hefted the lid open fully, finally uncovering the splintered pieces of the hallowed instrument. Heavy tears slipped free of the amethyst eyes, the player's free hand flying up to cover her mouth as heart-wrenching sobs echoed from within the depressed woman as she wept. Vinyl clicked her tongue after looking over the tattered mess before closing the case and slipped it to the floor, the DJ urging forward as she dropped to her knees before the crying musician. Crawling between the cellist's knees, Vinyl lifted her arms to gently encase the woman in a loose embrace, her forehead lifting to gently bump Octavia's.

"I'm so sorry, Tav."

Hiccuping, Octavia wrapped her free arm around the jockey's neck as the tears continued, her head dropping to the spinner's shoulder as she silently cried into the woman's neck. Vinyl merely remained, suspended between anger and sympathy, as she held the cellist for tenuous minutes. Finally, Octavia lifted her head and sniffled, amethyst eyes burning with angry redness, a glassy quality shining from the saddened orbs.

"My poor cello..."

Vinyl nodded, eyebrows drawing tight on her forehead as she casually ran a comforting hand down the woman's thigh, eyes falling shut in defeat. Wrestling to her feet, Vinyl stood and offered a comforting hand to the distraught player.

"Come on, Octavia, you need to rest. We can worry about this later, okay?"

Eyes trained on the foreboding case, Octavia nodded before tearing her eyes from the floor, only to steady them on the calming presence of the DJ. Accepting the offered help, Octavia was lifted upward to stand before being lead toward the hallway. Tossing an unconcerned look over her shoulder, Vinyl smiled reassuringly before squeezing the hand still in her grasp.

"I have some pajamas for you to wear tonight. Symphony told me she'd drop some clothes off for you to wear tomorrow, I hope that's okay."

Defeated, the cellist nodded as she continued following the spinner through the apartment. Stopping at a closed door, Vinyl pushed open the door and flicked on the light, illuminating the large bathroom in a calming, white light.

"It's not as fancy as your bathroom, but it does its job."

Nodding, the cellist stepped inside and smiled sadly before turning to regard the patiently waiting DJ.

"There's not too much I can do on my own, not with my arm like this."

Vinyl nodded and entered the room as well, eyes casually scanning the black sling still clinging perfectly to the player.

"I can help with whatever you need, that's what I'm here for. You need toothpaste on your brush, I'm your girl. Clothes giving you a problem? I'll gladly take care of that for you."

Octavia laughed easily at the spinner, a level of nervousness leaving the cellist at the woman's support. Nodding, Octavia followed Vinyl out of the bathroom and toward the bedroom just slightly down the hall. Pushing the door open with her foot, Vinyl flicked on the light and turned to study the quietly investigating cellist.

"How's the pain level, you okay?"

"Yes, everything's a warm fuzziness. I think the exhaustion may be helping with that."

Vinyl accepted the answer and approached her closet, disappearing into the dark abyss for a moment before returning with a plain gray shirt and blue plaid pajama pants.

"It's not expensive silk like what you're probably used to, but they're comfy and warm."

Octavia smiled wonderfully and bobbed her head at the DJ's apologetic tone before accepting the clothes.

"I'm sure they're fine, Scratch. I'm going to freshen up."

Absently smiling, the cellist turned carefully and receded back toward the bathroom. Running a shaky hand through the spiky blue hair, Vinyl released a low whistle before stripping out of her clothes and disappeared into the closet for her own pajamas. Settling on a simple pair of shorts and a white tank, Vinyl slipped back out of the closet and padded around the room, absently fiddling with things while she waited. Moments later saw Octavia cautiously reenter the room, all changed save for the shirt still clinging to her torso. Smiling slightly, Octavia bunched her eyebrows in uncertainty as she pinned the spinner with a desperate sigh.

"I'm afraid I can't get out of this sling on my own."

Ignoring the lick of fire that traced her spine, Vinyl nodded and approached the flushed cellist.

"Oh, so you're kindly asking me to undress you?"

Flushing, Octavia held the playful gaze of the pianist before nodding affirmatively, a playful smile tugging gently at her lips.

"Yes. Do you think you can handle that?"

"I think I got it."

Octavia chuckled as she felt herself relax, pleased the DJ accepted the situation. Glowing amethyst eyes watched carefully as Vinyl approached her, hands lifting to loosen and undo a strap of the sling, easily sliding the black immobilizer from the cellist's body. Flashing an uneven smile, Vinyl took a tepid step back, hands lifting to curl thoughtfully on her hips.

"Need help with the shirt, too, eh?"

Biting her lip, Octavia smiled and nodded slightly.

"Yes. But, Vinyl, my--"

"Your mark. I know, I won't look."

Grinning, Octavia watched, enraptured as the jockey slid around her to settle over her shoulder, impossibly warm hands brushing the skin of her sides as the heavy material of her shirt was casually peeled away from her body. A chill skittered across her shoulders as the coolness of the air nipped at her exposed skin, a field of goosebumps prickling her skin as she stood. The spinner's hands were on her again, casually tracing the bruising she knew to be there, the inflamed touch enveloping her in a blissful heat. She heard Vinyl whisper a curse under her breath as she studied the dark blotches of skin, warm fingers idly sweeping over the damaged tissue, willing it to heal.

Finished with her appraisal of the injury, Vinyl slipped the shirt over the cellist, careful of the free-moving arm as she settled the cloth over the cellist's battered frame. Dropping a small kiss to the injured shoulder, Vinyl knelt to retrieve the sling before walking forward to stand before the cellist. Smiling sweetly, the two-tone spinner lifted her hands to the red-faced musician, both sets of eyes meeting with a bolt of electricity. Gaze never wavering, Vinyl carefully secured the injured limb before smiling satisfactorily to the cellist.

"You're all good, boss. Ready for a super early bedtime?"

Mulberry eyes flicked over to peer out the slit in the curtains, eyes focusing on the tangerine light just outside, signaling the falling of the sun. Snapping her eyes back to the casual spinner, Octavia grinned and shifted forward. Feeling increasingly bold, Octavia moved her free hand to absently run her fingers through the surprisingly soft blue locks, palm sliding across the pale skin of the spinner's neck before her fingers tangled in the short hairs at the base of the jockey's skull. Watching the red eyes flutter, Octavia absently licked her lips before stretching upward, mouth instantly finding the DJ's in a smoldering kiss.

A small moan escaped the spinner at the contact, her hands crawling up to settle hotly on the cellist's hips as she tilted her angle, lips sliding expertly against the cellist's burning mouth as the kiss deepened. Octavia hummed breathlessly, fingers pulling hard against the spinner's neck, bringing the woman almost flush against her, drawing an appreciative groan from the jockey. Spiraling, the jockey traced her tongue along the cellist's bottom lip, drawing a heady sigh from the cellist as she drew Vinyl inward, only to jerk backward with a throaty gasp, their lips breaking with a soft pop.

Vinyl snapped her eyes open in that instant, her fingers flexing automatically against the cellist's perfect hip bones. Octavia opened her dark, hooded eyes, tongue absently tracing her lips as she torched the jockey with a sultry surprise.

"Your tongue ring..."

Grinning, Vinyl bobbed her head, her hand slipping beneath the softness of the cellist's shirt, fingers nimbly stroking the skin over the unknown mark, eyes dropping to study the cellist's perfect lips. With an almost feral tug, Octavia crashed their lips back together, her tongue reaching desperately for the heart-stopping ecstasy of the spinner's tongue ring, groaning deeply at the impassioned contact. Pressing forward, the raven-haired player buried her fingers in the soft blue hair, impossibly drawn into the spinner as their embrace grew more frenzied, the spinner's hand sliding further up the warm softness of the cellist's stomach.

Hitching a breath, Vinyl tugged backward, severing the molten kiss before dropping her forehead to the cellist's.

"We... we have to stop."

Groaning, Octavia absently massaged the spinner's scalp, breaths escaping in ragged bursts against the jockey's incredible mouth.

"I can't. Vinyl..."

Shaking her head, Vinyl dropped a quick kiss to the bruised lips before stepping back from the cellist.

"Tav, you just got out of the hospital. Your ribs are broken, and you've got a friggin' concussion. It's not the smartest thing to do. And besides, I..."

Torrid amethyst met apologetic crimson, the former softening as the cellist nodded her head.

"Yes, you're... You're right. I am feeling rather light-headed at the moment."

"Oh, that's just from my awesomeness. You'll return to normal function shortly."

Smiling despite herself, Octavia chuckled, suddenly aware of the glaring deflation of her energy. Fighting a yawn, the cellist swayed as she took a step toward the DJ.

"You win this round, Pon-3, but I do not give up easily."

Snickering, Vinyl dropped a quick peck on the woman's cheek before turning toward the large bed and folded down the heavy covers. Octavia smiled instantly upon seeing the blue silk sheets, her mulberry eyes climbing to focus intently on the spinner.

"Silk sheets, Miss Tough Guy?"

Offering a sly smile, Vinyl lifted an eyebrow suggestively.

"I like to sleep naked, and silk feels simply amazing against bare skin."

Ignoring the comment, Octavia grinned before sliding into the large bed, sighing peacefully as she settled. Peeking at the DJ, the strings player grinned mischievously.

"If you'd like to sleep how you would normally, I wouldn't complain."

Laughing out loud, Vinyl clicked on the lamp before turning to turn off the overhead, stopping for a moment to pin the cellist with a sultry gaze. Vinyl slid her hands up her shirt to reveal the backward quaver before curling her hands up to expose the toned flesh over her stomach, the metal of her navel piercing glistening in the low light. Smiling up at the player through the messy bangs, the blue-haired spinner flashed a victorious grin to the blushing cellist.

"If you saw me naked, it would kill you."

Ignoring the searing heat curling in her belly, Octavia smiled and nodded her defeat. Fighting a yawn, the cellist closed her eyes and settled against the fluffy pillows, a pleased sigh escaping the full lips. For a moment there was nothing but silence before the DJ finally slid into the bed beside her companion, softly brushing against the woman. Octavia cracked open one eye to study the jockey as she lay propped up on her side, red eyes unfocused with thought. Shuffling over, Octavia snuggled into the spinner's shoulder as her body began to relax fully, the painkillers coursing powerfully through her body.

Vinyl glanced down at the dark head tucked under her chin before offering an unbalanced smile, a menagerie of thoughts skittering through her mind at breakneck speed. Still, the jockey settled down, ignoring the falling rays of the sun as she fit her body to the raven-haired player's curves, their bodies meshing perfectly under the cool silk. Vinyl molded an arm low across the cellist's waist, hand curling into the wonderful dip of the player's hip.

"Is this okay?"

The cellist hummed before wrapping her hand around the jockey's upper arm, nuzzling into the player's jaw.

"Perfect."

Vinyl smiled slightly before settling, eyes trained hard out the window as she lost herself in her thoughts, breaking them momentarily as the cellist's even breathing in sleep washed through her.

A shaft of dull, gray light peeked in from the slightly opened blinds, easily stirring the woman from slumber. A muffled grumble fled from the cellist's parted lips as consciousness descended upon her, sending her synapses into painful awareness of the pulsing aches of her beaten form. Struggling to slip free of the heavy warmth that was tucked possessively around her, Octavia released a low whine before finally cresting the blankets, bright eyes blinking rapidly in the unnerving light. Scanning her surroundings, the disoriented player suddenly recognized the familiar room, a comforting fire exploding through her as she recalled falling asleep the night prior, wrapped safely in the arms of her DJ.

The mulberry gaze finally landed on the side table, an appreciative smile stretching the sleep-chapped lips. Absently kicking at the silk that still clung to her, Octavia fought against the blazing pain in her side as she struggled to sit, hand absently reaching outward for the pills that rested mere inches from the pale digits. Finally throwing her legs over the side of the large bed, Octavia reached for the offered medication and deftly swallowed, hand blindly reaching for the sweating glass before she tossed down a chilled swig of water. Scrunching her face at the feel of the large pills, the raven-haired player placed the still cold water back on the coaster before urging herself to stand, a startling headache slamming her right between the eyes.

With a whimper, the cellist urged her tired frame into moving, pausing in a celebratory moment as her legs responded. Approaching the cracked door, Octavia slipped her fingers in the crack and slid open the door before padding lightly down the hall, a sweet aroma greeting her as she continued down the walk. Breaking into the living area, the sleep-swept cellist grinned foolishly as she watched the DJ waltz confidently around the kitchen, a small earbud tucked effortless into the semi-hidden ears. Turning, Vinyl noticed the woman and beckoned her forward, a small grin twisting her lips.

"Morning, sleepy head. Would you like a waffle?"

Fighting a yawn, Octavia shuffled forward and smirked, nodding her head at the question. Taking a seat at the table, the cellist sighed happily as she watched the DJ cook. Muffled voices suddenly caught her attention as the door was swung open, haphazardly slamming against the jamb at the sudden force. Spitfire, Lyra and Symphony all tumbled inside, a mixture of laughs echoing from the women. Octavia chuckled softly before grinning at the newcomers. Symphony noticed the sleep-tousled cellist and snickered, automatically approaching the seated player.

"Good morning, light of my life!"

Smirking, Octavia curled her good arm around the violinist as she hugged her belly, an amused laugh bubbling free.

"Good morning. What are you all doing here?"

Spitfire pulled out the seat beside the cellist and plopped down, her elbows lifting to rest on the edge of the table.

"Vinyl told me she was making waffles, so here I am. Symphony kinda just follows along, and we met Lyra in the hallway on the way up."

Mulberry eyes jumped up to land on the smiling lyrist as she leaned casually against the still cooking spinner, golden orbs glowing. Instinctively, the cellist curled her mouth into a thankful smile, passing a silent communication to the mint-haired player that cocked her head in understanding. Symphony sat in the remaining chair beside Octavia and gently rubbed the player's knee, eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"How are you feeling today? Any better?"

"The headaches come and go, along with the nausea. The pain in my shoulder is just a dull roar at this point."

Lyra, who had plucked free a banana from the bowl on the counter, slipped into the seat beside Spitfire, teeth bared in a suspicious smile. Octavia tilted her head at the mint-haired player, perturbed at the strange look. Taking a bite of the fruit, Lyra winked at the cellist.

"I like your bedhead, Melody. You sleep okay?"

Passing an elated smile to the distracted spinner, Octavia turned to refocus on the lyrist before nodding happily.

"Yes, actually. I was surprised to not have any nightmares, but... I actually got the best sleep I've had in quite some time."

The musician seemed to accept the response and lapsed into thoughtful silence, golden orbs flicking back to watch the spinner. Pleased, Vinyl straightened and lifted two plates, focus lifting to pin the women with a thoughtful glare.

"You motherfuckers can at least grab some plates, you know?"

Giggling, Symphony shot upward, grabbing two of the plates. Vinyl adjusted, tucking one on her arm, before grabbing the remaining and headed toward the table. Passing out the appropriate plates, the DJ claimed the seat between Lyra and Symphony, pleased at the wonderful aroma. The group ate in companionable silence, often punctuated by a hearty groan of approval from the pilot as she scarfed down the sugary delight. Symphony kicked the flyer, drawing an annoyed grunt from the woman as she ate.

Octavia hid her smile well, beyond touched that Vinyl had already cut her breakfast before sitting down herself, realizing the intense thoughtfulness the otherwise reserved jockey was displaying. Chewing thoughtfully, the still tired cellist casually scanned the familiar faces of the women at the table, pausing to thoughtfully contemplate Lyra and her change in attitude. Broken from her reverie, Octavia slid her eyes up to focus on Spitfire as she finally cleared her plate and sat back against the chair.

"That was delicious, homo. Can you cook for me every day? Symphony burns toast."

Earning another blow to the shin, Spitfire winced before shooting a challenging smile to her lover. Symphony sneered at the captain before turning her eyes back to Octavia.

"These three knuckleheads have some Fall Fest stuff to do today, so I've put myself in charge of annoying the crap out of you for the day."

Lifting a confused look to the jockey, Octavia frowned before blinking quickly, drawing a sorrowful smile from the spinner.

"Sorry, Tav. I was going to tell you, but then they broke down my door and intruded. And Symph, give her a break, she just rolled out of bed before you guys got here."

Grinning sheepishly, the violinist patted the cellist's free hand before squeezing gently.

"Sorry, love. I hope you don't mind?"

Octavia smiled and shook her head before dropping her fork onto the surprisingly empty plate. Vinyl and Spitfire were on their feet the next instant, collecting the plates and silverware before heading back towards the kitchen. Octavia squeezed Symphony's hand before turning a thoughtful confusion to the lyrist.

"Lyra?"

"Yeah, what's up?"

Pausing to collect her thoughts, Octavia chanced a quick look to the spinner as she washed the dishes, periodically handing a wet dish to the pilot for drying. Turning back to the patiently waiting golden orbs, Octavia dropped her voice and leaned slightly forward.

"I don't understand your change of heart."

Grinning brightly, the lyrist reclined in her chair, hands lifting to cross behind her head.

"I have more important things to worry about than being in a fight with my best friend's interest. You know you screwed up, you know you're sorry, and we'll all get over it eventually."

Shockingly floored by the simple words, the player bit back the sudden rush of tears, lip pinched between two rows of pearly teeth. Vinyl, after having finished the dishes, turned around, frowning upon noticing the shift in the woman. Skirting around the counter, Vinyl approached the cellist to kneel by her side.

"Hey, you okay?"

"Yes, yes... I'm fine, thank you. Are you getting ready to go?"

"Yeah, I'm sorry. I didn't remember to tell you. We won't be gone long."

Patting the jockey's hand, Octavia leaned downward to place a soft kiss on the spinner's cheek.

"Be careful. I'll see you when you get home."

Unbalanced, Vinyl nodded and stood, motioning for the two women to follow. Tossing a final wave to the pair, the three musicians filtered out the door before closing it with a resounding slam. Humming, Symphony pushed back from the table and held her hand out to the cellist, teal eyes aglow with a humored appreciation.

"Come on, Brunhilda, I'll make us some tea."

Feeling self-conscious, the cellist ran her free hand through the twisted locks and grimaced, cheeks coloring in a faint red.

"I didn't realize I looked such a mess."

"Yeah, well, that means you got some great sleep. Besides, I grabbed your brush. It's in the bag by the door, along with some clothes. I figured you might want to shower or something."

Octavia mulled it over briefly, frowning after only a moment.

"I don't think I could manage that, not with one good arm."

Symphony smiled kindly before heading into the kitchen to start the water for their tea. After placing two mugs on the counter with the appropriate bags, she approached the couch and sunk into the cushions beside the cellist.

"You could have Vinyl help you, you know."

A faint blush crossed the cheeks of the dark-haired player, though a smile etched across the flushed face.

"I don't think we're quite there yet."

"Suit yourself! I can always help, too, you know."

"Thank you, Symphony."

Sensing a slight shift, Symphony excused herself to ready the tea before returning quietly with two cups of the still steeping drink. Curling her legs beneath her, Symphony cradled her mug with both hands, casually blowing across the top as she studied her friend.

"What's on your mind, huh?"

Eyes still glassy with thought, Octavia smiled briefly after a second.

"What kind of lover is Vinyl?"

Freezing, Symphony flicked her eyes up to the open curiosity dancing in the mulberry orbs, an incredulous smile stretching across her face.

"You're really asking me that?"

"Yes."

Chuckling, Symphony continued to take a drink from her mug before dropping it back down to rest on a bent knee.

"Isn't the fun of a new relationship finding out on your own?"

"We're not really... in a relationship."

Frowning, Symphony stretched to place her cup on the table before righting herself to study the cellist.

"You guys still haven't really talked, have you?"

"No, not really. And with this whole thing, I think it might still be a little while. Vinyl seemed to be much more receptive yesterday, but I'm not really sure what she's been thinking. She was even different this morning."

"You guys need to have your heart to heart, at least to know where both of you stand."

Octavia sighed as deeply as she dared, the ominous reminder of her broken ribs tickling the back of her mind. Still, she ignored the previous tracks of thought to remind her companion of her original curiosity.

"We will. But seriously now, Vinyl... Is she as intense as I've been imagining?"

Symphony hid a mischievous smile behind her hand as she peered over at the intent player, drawing a deep chuckle from the violinist.

"Octavia Melody, are you telling me you're having less than perfect thoughts about our DJ?"

"Absolutely."

Symphony bit back a glorious laugh, teal eyes falling shut as a silent chortle rattled her fit frame.

"Suffering from torrid, lustful sex dreams, are we?"

Ignoring the colorful blush, Octavia nodded meekly, amethyst orbs shimmering.

"Yes. We kissed last night, differently than before. I felt something within me come to life, almost. Like a hungry fire fighting to escape a raging downpour."

"That's called your libido, honey. You've never experienced the plentiful wonder of crazy-hot sex, but you certainly will at some point."

Fingers tracing the rim of her mug, Octavia dropped her eyes downward to study the amber liquid before lifting them to cool the violinist with a pointed stare.

"You're correct. The thought had barely occurred to me; my entire focus had always been on my music and perfecting myself. But with Vinyl... that seems to be all I can think about."

"You're attracted to Vinyl, who is notoriously good at throwing around her incredible sensuality. It also doesn't help things that she's smokin' hot."

Octavia nodded willfully, a silly smile stretching her lips.

"It's very true. She's unmistakable. I never knew what I was getting myself into. So really, what kind of lover is she?"

"I refuse to indulge your fantasies."

Symphony drowned her playful smile with a sip of tea, pleased at the intense wonder emanating from the cellist at her deflection. Regrouping, Octavia leaned against the soft cushions of the couch before flippantly waving her free hand.

"You'd be more than willing to talk about what kind of lover Spitfire is."

"I'm dating Spitfire. And yes, I love talking about it."

"What about past experiences?"

Locking eyes with the deceptively innocent cellist, Symphony shook her head, bemusedly impressed.

"She'll absolutely break you."

Spitfire jokingly shoved the spinner through the doors of the Harwan, an slighted smile shaping her lips. Lyra shuffled out behind the pair, red-faced from the icy wind. The mint-haired lyrist wrapped a strong arm around the spinner and squeezed tightly.

"C'mon, V, you need to get your ass in gear. I will never be on Team Tav, but I will always be the loudest supporter of Team Scratch. And right now, Team Scratch is spinning her wheels in a ditch. Talk to me."

Irritated, Vinyl shook the arm from her shoulders and pivoted on her toes to trap the lyrist with a surprisingly irritated glare.

"Heartstrings, don't. It's hard enough having her in my house, in my bed, wearing my shit without you asking me how I feel about it. I wanted to get the three of us together to help me calm the hell down, and you are not helping."

Lyra curled her lip at the angry tone, golden eyes igniting.

"Well, freakin' excuse me for trying to help get your head out of your ass. You're letting this shit get to your head instead of facing it head on and overcoming it. What are you really afraid of? I know it's more than just giving in to the fact that Octavia can still hurt you. So tell me, Scratch, what's rattling your cage?"

"Right now? You are."

Spitfire carefully slid between the two heated women, hands lifting to either shoulder of the women. Forcing them apart, Spit tossed an exasperated gaze between the players.

"All right, knock it the hell off. Scratch, sit the hell down. Heartstrings, take a walk."

Slapping the hand off her shoulder, Lyra growled at the pilot.

"Don't. Vinyl, spit it the frig out."

Shrugging off the hand, Vinyl waved her hand in irritation, dismissing the lyrist.

"Let it go, Heartstrings."

Shoving passed the pilot, Lyra snagged the hem of the jockey's sleeve and tugged her, spinning her to face forward.

"Stop being such a bitch, Vinyl. Talk to me. Speak up!"

"Heartstrings..."

"No, don't try and get me to back off. Spit it the hell out!"

"Lyra!"

Vinyl broke free from the mint-haired player and growled, attempting to turn away, only to be grabbed by the collar. Hands flying up to grip tightly to the thin wrists, Vinyl snarled.

"I'm not--"

"Vinyl--"

"Stop. I'm not. I-- Lyra."

The fight swiftly left the DJ, leaving her standing limply in the lyrist's still irritated grasp. Head dropping downward, Vinyl released the breath she had been holding and slid her hands from the the lyrist's wrist.

"I'm not friggin' good enough for her, Lyr. Lying in bed next to her... All I did was think. And the only thing I could think of what that I'm not what the hell she needs or deserves. Octavia's this gorgeous Goddess with the perfect skin and perfect eyes and these goddamn stellar curves, and I'm just--"

"The love of her goddamn life."

Tempting a small glance, Vinyl lifted her eyes to study the impassioned orbs of her closest friend. Spitfire approached the women and peered thoughtfully over the lyrist's shoulder.

"Scratch, you've got no idea how freaking important you are to Octavia. I get that you're freaking out about all of this, and you're trying super friggin' hard to not get hurt, but is it really worth all of this extra pain? Seriously?"

Sliding from the slack grip of the mint-haired strings player, Vinyl shook her head, hands lifting to tangle in her hair.

"I slept in the same bed with her last night! I could have actually slept with her, she wanted it, wanted me, regardless of her injuries, and I freaked. I literally nearly fled the goddamn room. All I could tolerate was holding her until she slept, and then I just up and bolted."

Lyra offered a calm smile before approaching the upset spinner.

"Vinyl, I'm going to tell you something really strange. The night after everything went down, we had a sort of intervention at Bon's shop. Octavia apologized to all of us and promised to make shit right by you... I had freaked out, but I agreed to not interfere. I didn't think I'd have to interfere with you."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"Because I was furious at Octavia. But I can really friggin' see that she means all of what she says to you and all of what she does. You're the one that's freaking out. Do you really want this to work, or do you want to just have a casual fuck buddy after that arm of hers heals?"

Vinyl shuddered and wrapped her arms around herself, an errant tear squeezing free from the thick lashes.

"I want her. All of her, forever. I just don't think I have it in me to not worry about the future."

Spitfire, who had been in been uncharacteristically silent, stepped forward to nod in agreement.

"Vinyl, you just have to jump in with both feet, okay?"

Straightening, the jockey released a shuddering breath.

"I ignored her call."

Baffled, Lyra lifted her hand to grasp the spinner's forearm.

"What?"

"She called me. When Stella attacked her, she called, and I-I-- I ignored the call. I let it ring. She needed me and I let her down."

Spitfire squeezed her eyes closed before approaching the spinner from the side, arms snaking around the jockey's waist.

"Scratch, it's okay. You--"

"No, Spit. It's not okay. How can I finally commit to this if I can't even be there for her as her friend?"

Lyra stepped up to the spinner, hands lifting to clasp the pale face.

"You need to talk to her, okay, V? Okay? Clear the air, start over, try again. You two deserve better than what you have."

Shaking her head, Vinyl receded toward the car.

"Take me home, Heartstrings. I want to see Octavia."

The rumble of the sports car generally died out, leaving the duo in heavy silence. Vinyl climbed out of the car and slammed the door, slowly trekking toward the doors of the Astoria. Spitfire slipped in behind her, following quietly. Vinyl undid her keys as she approached the elevator, eyes closed in thought as she leaned against the door, slowly ascending upward to her floor. Pouring out of the elevator, Vinyl shuffled down the hallway before leaning against her door, sighing heavily before pushing it open.

The laughter of both women echoed peacefully from the couch, a mindless TV show blaring on the large flat screen. Octavia turned her head, face lighting with a brilliant smile as she focused on the two women as they entered. Immediately sensing the jockey's turn of mood, Octavia struggled to her feet to stand stiffly beside the couch. Lifting her head, Symphony clicked off the TV and stood as well, teal eyes brimming with powerful support. From behind Vinyl's shoulder, Spitfire jerked her head, signaling to the violinist for a quick departure.

Symphony bobbed her head and collected her coat from the sofa before skirting around the cellist, fingers gently brushing the black sling before joining Spitfire by the door. Jingling the small set of keys, Spitfire tossed the keys on the couch beside the two women.

"I'm leaving the car, of course. We'll see you later. Good night, Melody."

Offering a lingering, supportive look to the cellist, Symphony curled into Spitfire's side as they quietly left the apartment. Octavia stood before the serious disc jockey, mulberry eyes flustered with strong worry.

"Vinyl?"

Twitching at the mention of her name, Vinyl released a quick breath before locking eyes with the cellist, the red orbs brimming with raw emotion.

"We have to talk, Octavia."

Swallowing the forceful fear, Octavia nodded and slowly sunk into the couch. Vinyl approached, only to falter and stop beside the sofa, eyes falling to stare blankly at the floor. Sensing the discomfort, Octavia reached her free hand up to the jockey, tugging on her hand before pulling the woman to sit beside her. Grasping the fidgeting hands, Octavia stilled the fraying emotions, thumb brushing across the tense knuckles of the pianist.

"Vinyl?"

Lifting her eyes, Vinyl locked painfully onto the expressive violet eyes.

"I'm sorry I never answered your call. I'm sorry that when you needed me the most, I ignored you. I'm sorry that you've been so fucking gung-ho on trying this out, but I've been a damn stupid coward and hiding from you. Last night, I freaked out after you kissed me. I could barely stay with you, and when you fell asleep? I ran. I'm sorry."

Octavia ignored the tears that threatened to spill, instead focusing on the hand within her grasp.

"Vinyl... I called you before Stella Artois attacked me. And I know you were trying to distance yourself from me, but I couldn't help myself. I miss you when you leave the room, and I find myself smiling whenever I even hear you. I've tried to give you all the time I could, but I can't help this feeling... I love you, and I want everything that comes with that. The good, the bad, the ugly, the beautiful... I'm sorry if I was pressing you, but I'm willing to wait for however long you need."

Vinyl bit her lip, her eyes misting as she squeezed the cellist's hand.

"I'm so incredibly sick of running, Octavia."

Losing the battle against the raging emotion thundering through her body, Octavia swallowed a sob as she leaned closer to the blue-haired spinner.

"Then stop."

Catching the husking whisper, Vinyl chuckled, the dam of tears finally breaking.

"I fucking love you, Octavia Melody."

Author's Notes:

Oh my god, today has been so busy. I'm so sorry if there are numerous mistakes! I'll try to fix them as I find them, or as you point out. Forgive the lateness and try to enjoy! I'm sorry it's slow... HAPPY SATURDAY!