Octavia jerked backward, free hand instantly clenching the fingers still within her grasp. Heavy tears fell free from the clear, amethyst eyes, the crystalline droplets almost glowing in the dense light of the room. Smiling, the cellist chuckled before pinning the emotional spinner with a soulful gaze.

"You... you--"

"Love you? Yeah. God, I think I always have. But I'm so scared, Octavia. I don't know how to handle this level of emotion."

The raven-haired player ignored the skittering chills across her skin as she lifted her hand from Vinyl's to absently brush through the two-tone locks. Licking her lips, mulberry eyes dropped to meet startling crimson, a small smile etched across the pale lips.

"And you think this doesn't terrify me as well? I've never done anything like this before. You've brought things out in me that I could only ever dream of. And I hurt you. You don't know how horrible that still makes me feel."

"Tav--"

"No."

The cellist extracted herself from the comfort of the sofa, the weak-kneed woman staggering just a few steps away from the jockey. Ignoring the searing pain in her side, Octavia ran her free hand through the ruffled bangs, a new flurry of tears prickling the agonized orbs.

"I know you're afraid to trust me, Vinyl. I know that you're terrified I'll change and want nothing to do with you, because this is new to me and because you're a woman. I know. I can't promise that I won't hurt you again, just the same as you cannot promise me that you'd never hurt me. But what I do know, what I truly know..."

Pausing in her speech, Octavia allowed her eyes to study the ashen form of the jockey, vision catching every striking detail of the player before her. Failing to fight the wave of emotion, Octavia bit her lip as more tears dripped free of her lashes, blazing trails down the heated skin.

"What I know is that I'm willing to do anything to make this work. I can't guarantee that I won't mess it up, but I'll do everything I can to keep you. I want to fight for you, I want to love you and argue with you and have fun with you and make love to you for as long as you're willing to keep me."

Shuddering, Vinyl slipped her eyes closed and wrapped her arms around her shaking form, more tears stammering free as a small smile twisted the trembling lips. Lifting her head, the red orbs opened, shocking the cellist with their intensity. Slowly, Vinyl climbed to her feet and approached the visibly stressed player, stopping just out of arm's reach of the cellist.

"You're beautiful, Octavia."

Hiccupping a cry, Octavia clenched her fist at her side, mulberry eyes hopelessly scanning the swirling emotion in the garnet pools.

"Vinyl--"

Stepping into the player's space, Vinyl lifted her hands to cup the tear-stained cheeks, thumbs thoughtfully wiping away at the watery tracks. The glistening red eyes purposefully scanned the cautious face, an impossible smile growing on the jockey's pale visage as she watched the cellist. Swiping a thumb across the pouting lips of the woman, Vinyl swept downward, dropping a sweet kiss to the surprised mouth, lingering a long moment before pulling away to look thoughtfully at the musician.

"You scare the hell out of me."

Eyes fluttering closed, Octavia leaned slightly forward, grasping the jockey's shirt in a trembling hold.

"I'm sorry."

"I'm not."

Snapping open the violet eyes, Octavia pinned the jockey with a wide-open stare, a bout of confusion swirling the otherwise clear orbs. Further twisting her fingers into the spinner's shirt, Octavia attempted to suppress a strangled cry, her eyes falling from the jockey's intensity. Vinyl slid her arms around the cellist's hips, curling the woman safely in her arms, foreheads brushing slightly as Octavia reflexively lifted her eyes to study the spin doctor. Feeling the incredible heat of the spinner, the strings player shuddered gently. Nudging the player's forehead, Vinyl waited patiently for the mulberry eyes to meet her own.

"When I first met you, I was so taken by you that I thought my head was going to explode. Seeing you in the Harwan, my Harwan, so wounded and alone... all I wanted to do was kiss the pain away. When you play your instrument, Octavia... It stirs something in me that I thought died a really long time ago. And when we started to get to know one another, that feeling was almost constant. You do things to me that I can't even put into words."

Octavia kept the spinner's even gaze, a fluttering heat spreading across her neck as the jockey spoke. Squeezing the DJ's hip, Octavia licked her lips to speak.

"I want to be there for you, to make you always feel that way. But, you have to--"

"Trust you."

The raven-haired musician wrestled with the burning fear in her stomach, instead choosing to focus on the rippling pools of fire torching her flesh with a searing heat as the jockey casually scanned her defiance. Dropping her lips to rest beside the player's ear, Vinyl curled her arms tighter around the cellist's waist.

"I give you my heart, Octavia Melody. Please don't break it."

A thundering release stormed through the cellist as her arm sped up to wrap tightly around the spinner's neck, a strangled cry tearing from her throat as the tears crashed upon her with frightening force. Vinyl curled her arms around the cellist, cradling the player with strong arms as the fountain of tears crept dangerously down the shocked face. Tugging back from the strong embrace, Octavia angled upward, lips instantly finding the DJ's as she pulled her into a fierce caress.

Vinyl hummed low, her own tears falling in an echo of understanding with the cellist as she continued her languid exploration of the player's increasingly satisfying lips. With a small gasp, Vinyl pulled away, leaning her forehead against Octavia's as she patiently waited for the amethyst orbs to open. Eventually, the calming eyes opened, catching the jockey with a loving possession.

"Thank you... for trusting me. I promise I--"

Silencing her with a brutal kiss, Vinyl casually pulled away and grinned down at the musician.

"It's okay. I'm in this. I want to be with you, nowhere else. Okay? The past doesn't matter anymore. I don't want to dwell, I just want to be."

Curling her lip inward, Octavia nodded before reaching to her toes to pull the jockey into a tight embrace.

"I love you, Vinyl. You're everything I could ever hope for."

Smiling, the jockey scorched the cellist with a kiss before untangling from the warm comfort of the cellist's arms. A wave of exhaustion crashed into the cellist in that moment, the spiraling emotion doing nothing for the growing headache. Vinyl grasped at the loose hand and squeezed, wrapping the woman in peaceful understanding.

"Let's go lay down, I'm pretty much spent."

Nodding, Octavia followed Vinyl into the bedroom, elated when the spinner clicked the lamp on and turned down the covers. Gesturing to the cellist, Vinyl smiled and slipped out of her shirt before toeing off her socks, a small yawn pulling at the DJ's resolve. Grinning, Octavia slipped under the covers and settled, mulberry eyes carefully watching the two-tone pianist as she twisted delicate fingers through the wild hair.

With a grin, Vinyl slid in beside the cellist and pulled up the blankets, turning gently to mold her body into the cellist's damaged side. Swiping a gentle hand across the bruised area, Vinyl dropped a small kiss on the player's good shoulder.

"How're you doing? I forgot to ask."

"I'm all right. I took some pills not long before you came home, and Symphony iced my shoulder a few times in your absence."

Humming as a response, Vinyl gently stroked the damaged ribs, grinning as she felt the cellist relax into her touch.

"I'm sorry I wasn't there for you."

Turning, Octavia pinned the pianist with pulsing resolve.

"You were there for me at the hospital, Vinyl. You were there for me every time I needed you... I never thanked you for all you did for me."

Grinning, Vinyl leaned forward to peck the player's cheek before pulling away, settling peacefully on the pillow beneath her.

"Yes, you did. Every time. You're very well mannered."

Chuckling, Octavia curled her free hand under the jockey's singlet, shivering as her fingers met the radiating heat of the spinner's stomach.

"You're so warm."

Shaking with silent laughter, the musician scooted forward, melding the exposed skin of her abdomen into the cellist's chilled side.

"You're just always cold."

Smiling, Octavia tilted her head to rest safely on the jockey's shoulder, a gentle contentment settling over her. It was silent for a while, the sound of the bustling city just outside the windows wafting relentlessly through the thick panes separating them from the still-lingering day. Octavia felt her body relax, surrounded in the cocoon of heat, comforted by the proximity of the DJ. Fighting sleep, the cellist hummed before curling her fingers inside the jockey's singlet.

"Are we a thing?"

"If you think you can put up with me, then yes."

Smiling softly, Octavia closed her eyes and nuzzled the spinner's jaw.

"I want to put up with all of you forever."

"I'm a little crazy, you know."

"You're my beautiful, crazy weirdo."

Snickering, Vinyl craned her neck to place a kiss on the cellist's temple.

"You like that I'm weird."

"I like that you're weird, yes. I like your piercings."

Vinyl chuckled harder, smiling down at the cellist's relaxed face as she grinned softly.

"You told me you hated my piercings."

"That was before I found out how hot they can be."

Pleased, the spinner relaxed against the cellist, a soothing warmth cascading across her pale skin. Octavia stirred briefly, eyes flickering open as she smiled.

"I still owe you a date."

Fighting a smile, Vinyl yawned.

"Go to sleep, Tav."

A jarring pain shook the cellist awake, a throbbing pulse echoing up from her damaged side. Inhaling a sharp breath, Octavia struggled to sit up, a swirling nausea burning the back of her skull. Focusing on the bedside table, Octavia flashed a quick grin at the ever-ready pills before sliding them off the table and swallowed them, chasing with the chilled water beside them. Untangling from the sheets, Octavia escaped the supportive confines of the room, a nervousness fluttering through her body as she hovered just inside the bedroom door. Swallowing the delirious fluster, Octavia pulled open the door and walked leisurely down the hallway, pausing as she neared the living area.

Vinyl sat on the kitchen counter, cell phone tucked easily between her shoulder and ear as she watched the kettle. Octavia smiled and dared forward, footfalls falling silent as she neared the spinner. Sliding to stand beside the jean-clad thighs, Octavia grinned up at the player, a churning giddiness warping through her body as Vinyl smiled down at her.

"Yeah, no. Tav just got up, I'll call you back later."

Ending the call, Vinyl slid down from the counter and lightly kissed the cellist's cheek.

"Morning, sleepy head. I have water on for tea and anything ready for breakfast. Are you hungry?"

"Do you have any oatmeal, by chance?"

Grinning, Vinyl approached the cabinet and pulled out a drum of oats.

"I do. I also have strawberries, so why don't you go hop in the shower and I'll make breakfast. Your appointment is in about an hour or so."

Frowning, Octavia rubbed absently at a tremor in her forehead.

"What appointment?"

"Ortho. You have to get your shoulder looked at. That's today. In like, an hour and fourteen minutes."

"Oh. Right, I'd forgotten. Vinyl, I--"

The two-tone spinner grinned before placing the oats on the counter and approached the cellist.

"I can help you out of your sling, if you'd like. Or I can sponge bathe you. I could even just shower with you, ya know... save some time?"

Blushing, Octavia playfully slapped at the jockey's stomach.

"No, I don't think that's necessary. I'll... I'll try on my own."

Winking at the player, Vinyl closed the remaining distance between them, fingers rising to deftly loosen and remove the cellist's sling.

"Leave the door open, in case you need to yell for help or something, okay?"

Skirting around the strings player, Vinyl approached the overnight bag still by the door and disappeared down the hallway, reemerging just a moment later.

"I started the water for you so it'd be hot enough. Be careful, yeah? I'll help you when you're done."

Swallowing the thought of the spinner's wonderful hands, Octavia nodded her thanks and headed toward the bathroom. A puff of steam greeted her as she nudged open the door, an encompassing heat wrapping the stiff cellist in welcoming relief. Leaning against the cool tile of the wall, Octavia stood for a moment, relishing in the hot mist as it swirled around her. A soft knock caught her attention, the fuzzy outline of the jockey standing out in colorful relief of the pale steam.

"I was gonna help with the shirt."

Grinning, Octavia pushed up from the wall and approached the jockey, stopping directly in front of the softly smiling Vinyl. Curling her fingers in the hem of the offending object, eyes never wavering, Vinyl slid the shirt upward, curling over the cellist's heaving chest before sliding quickly over her head. Chilled fingers instantly lifted, a flat palm covering the still-mysterious mark of the cellist, red eyes never having wavered from the woman's face. Octavia smiled, ignoring the gasping jolt that shot through her at the jockey's touch. Locking eyes with the spinner, Octavia slid her good hand over Vinyl's, eyes dropping to slits as she looked up at the player.

"Thank you for the assistance, Vinyl."

Nodding, the spinner made no move to leave, red eyes frozen to the openness of the mulberry orbs staring desperately up at her. With a small grin, Vinyl curled her body forward, melding her hips to the cellist as her fingers dropped from the mark, crawling up the exposed skin of the cellist's back to curl sensuously around the smooth skin. Hitching a breath, Octavia lifted herself upward, fingers dancing up the bare arms of her DJ, the tight-fitting tank hugging each curve perfectly. Lips barely brushing, Octavia tangled her fingers in the wild blue hair, gently tugging the jockey to her lips.

Meeting with a low hum, Vinyl moved slowly against the cellist, hands flexing against the soft skin of the player's back as she deepened the smoldering caress, tongues meeting in a slow waltz. Gasping sharply, Octavia rolled her body forward, hips sliding roughly against the jockey's, the hard metal of her belt buckle tickling the bare flesh of her stomach. Breaking the dizzying kiss, Vinyl slid her hands slowly up the cellist's skin, fingers dancing peacefully across the cellist's ribs. Dropping a firm kiss to the raven-haired player's neck, Vinyl straightened, red eyes cloudy.

"You're absolutely stunning."

Breaths heaving, Octavia bit her lip, the heat from the steam mixing dangerously against her skin as she melted into the heartfelt words.

"You're killing me."

Smirking briefly, Vinyl slid her hands down the player's body, ignoring the quick inhale as she passed over the broken ribs, red eyes focused on glossy amethyst as her hand came to rest against the mark.

"I'm sorry. I, um. You need to shower."

"Stay with me."

Vinyl searched the mulberry orbs, ignoring the blush coloring the cheeks as she smiled.

"You know I can't. I don't want to hurt you."

"Vinyl--"

"Trust me, there's nothing I want to do more than... I can't. I could really hurt you."

Disregarding the burning fire settling in her belly, Octavia nodded, understanding.

"I know, you're right."

Offering an apologetic smile, Vinyl lifted the cellist's hand to cover the sacred mark, red eyes glowing with reverence for the woman.

"Holler if you need something, okay? I'll start on breakfast."

With a lingering look, Vinyl stepped out of the bathroom and winked before slowly turning to recede down the hall. Releasing a shuddering breath, Octavia wrung her hands before cracking the door.

"I can name a few things..."

Octavia sat anxiously in the waiting room, knee bouncing as her eyes carefully scanned the peaceful space. Vinyl held her good hand, thumb absently brushing the cellist's tense knuckles.

"Hey, Tav, relax. They're not going to murder you or anything."

"I don't like doctors."

Offering a supportive smile, Vinyl lifted the hand to place a soft kiss on the chilled back. A nurse entered a moment later, smiling at the nervous cellist.

"Miss Melody?"

Standing quickly, Octavia grimaced at the pain in her side and stabbing ache in her head. Feeling the warm support of the spinner's hand, the cellist smiled uneasily before following the nurse back toward a large room. Releasing the DJ's hand, Octavia absently sat on the exam table, legs swinging nervously as Vinyl settled against the wall to the right. Smiling calmly, the nurse nodded her head to the distracted cellist.

"The doctor will be in to see you shortly, okay?"

Nodding, Octavia continued to swing her legs, mulberry eyes staring hard out the window, dark eyes surveying the gray atmosphere with fevered gusto. Vinyl chuckled and approached the cellist, lifting a comforting hand to the slingless shoulder.

"Relax, O. Doc's a good guy."

"You know him?"

Vinyl lifted her left hand, a playful glint shaping the expressive red eyes.

"Yeah, he was my bone daddy when I broke my hand."

Bobbing her head in understanding, Octavia quickly tilted her head towards the door as an elderly gentleman entered the room, his soft white hair catching the light.

"Good afternoon, Miss Melody, pleasure to meet you. I'm Doctor Orth. And Vinyl, nice to see you again."

Offering her left hand in greeting, Octavia smiled sadly as the doctor shook it carefully.

"Pleasure, Doctor."

Orth held his hands out to the cellist, silently asking for permission to assess the injury. With the help of the DJ, Octavia shrugged out of the pea coat draped around her body and offered her immobile arm to the doctor. With a disarming smile, the man slowly undid the sling and removed it, handing it to Vinyl without a second thought. Gently moving the cellist's bow hand, the doctor shifted and moved the woman accordingly, humming to himself as he made notes on her condition. The impossibly sad eyes dropped to the permanent bump on her shoulder, a harrowing distress splashing through her as she looked at the injury.

Vinyl approached and squeezed the cellist's free hand, earning a sad smile from the cellist. Orth, after making notes in her file, stood and motioned for Vinyl to step away before easily pulling the cellist to her feet.

"Now, Miss Melody, I'd like to get a feel for the ribs. Two are damaged, correct?"

"Yes, sir. Breathing isn't as labored as suggested, though. The breaks were not severe."

Nodding, the man continued his checkup, generally pleased with the results as he wrapped up.

"Keep doing what you're doing. I see no problems with the ribcage or your shoulder, though I stress taking it easy with the shoulder. I'll send you home with exercises I'd like for you to do before setting you up with some mild rehab. You'll be fine before you know it."

"Doctor, I have a... You see, my--"

"Your cello, my dear, yes? I'd wait another week before I'd attempt. The motion may cause you unnecessary pain, but your range of motion should stabilize within the next few days. Understood?"

"Yes, sir. Thank you very much."

Passing a look of approval to the silent jockey, the man stood and exited the room. Pausing a moment, Vinyl slowly approached the cellist to stand before her, red eyes swirling with silent support for the woman.

"You okay, beautiful?"

"Yes, I'm all right. I'm glad to be on the mend, though I'd much rather play the cello now. Not that that's possible."

A bitter tear squeaked out, causing the woman to angrily wipe it away before standing, fumbling with the pea coat to cover the thin tank top she wore. Feeling the spinner's hand, Octavia stopped struggling and relaxed, falling sadly into the DJ's chest.

"I miss playing. I wish that I could."

Gently squeezing the woman, Vinyl quickly buttoned the coat and led the dejected woman out of the room before approaching the sign out desk. Once free of the building and the paperwork, Octavia made short work of the rain-soaked ground, sliding deftly into the sports car before fighting the tears that threatened to fall once more. Vinyl wordlessly slid into the driver's seat and slid the keys in the ignition, but didn't turn the car over.

"I'm sorry, Tav. I really am."

"It's not your fault, Vinyl. Can we please just go back to your place?"

"Course."

The drive home was silent, save for the rumbling of the engine and the soft patter of rain against the roof. Octavia remained still in the seat, eyes unfocused in thought. Pulling up to the tall building, Vinyl cut the engine and stepped out, quickly sliding around the car to open the door for the depressed cellist. The journey upstairs was also tempered by silence, a heart-wrenching melancholy pouring forth from the strings player as she approached the door in silence. Pushing open the door, Vinyl filtered into the apartment and turned, watching as Octavia slowly closed the door behind her.

"Hey, Tav, I have an idea."

Lifting the soulful eyes, Octavia sighed gently before smiling sadly to the jockey.

"Yes, Vinyl?"

Jerking her head, Vinyl motioned for the woman to follow as she led the way to the piano. Taking her seat behind the grand instrument, the two-tone pianist patted the padded bench beside her, a brilliant smile curling her lips as she slid her lenses off the messy bangs. Octavia walked slowly to the bench before sitting stiffly on it, hands clenched tightly in her lap as she stared at the ivory keys. Vinyl danced her fingers along Octavia's good arm, mindful of the tense throb still pulsing from the woman's center. Tugging the hands apart, Vinyl smiled easily to the woman.

"We can get your hand back from the land of the lazy, yeah? I can teach you."

Grinning despite the pounding sadness in her chest, Octavia lifted her hands to rest on the keys beside Vinyl's.

"Okay. I'm interested. What do we do?"

Vinyl snickered and cracked her knuckles, digits absently pressing the keys as she turned to regard the brightening cellist.

"Follow my lead."

Eight days had passed since her doctor visit, and twelve since the incident itself occurred. Octavia sat curled up on her couch cushions, nursing a boiling cup of tea as her eyes casually scanned the bleary, exterior world. A knock on her door gathered her attention, the clear mulberry orbs switching over to stare curiously at the door. A muffled curse gathered a laugh from the relaxed player as Symphony Strings finally managed to plow through the entryway. Upon noticing the smirking cellist, the violet-haired player scowled.

"What, do you like to be holed up in your apartment in the rain? Come on, I've come to gather you and take you back to Vinyl's. They're almost done with Fest practice, and I'm getting bored waiting for Spit to come home. So let's go eat and then get back to our women."

Gesturing to her tea cup, Octavia smiled before patting the couch beside her.

"I'm almost finished my tea, and then we can go to lunch. However, I cannot see Vinyl, not until tonight."

Shaking her head, Symphony smiled despite the cellist's attachment to tea and moved to flop down on the couch beside her. Leaning in to snuggle into the violinist's side, Octavia took a long draw from the cup.

"Hello, Symphony. I miss you, how are you doing?"

Snickering, the violet-haired woman wrapped her arm around the cellist and smiled.

"You saw me just the other day. How are you? How's the pain? How're things with V?"

Reveling in the quiet stillness of the room, Octavia briefly mulled over the line of questions.

"Pain is okay, I suppose. My ribs still hurt if I move a certain way, or if I laugh. My shoulder feels much better, not like a dead weight attached to my body."

"That's good. You know, the orchestra sends you their love."

Fighting off the wave of tears, Octavia smiled quickly before downing the rest of her tea.

"Yes, well... I'm sure I'll get back there eventually."

Sitting up, Symphony absently picked at a small pull her in jeans.

"I'm sorry, Octavia. I didn't mean to--"

"It's all right. I think of them often."

A confident knock suddenly sounded around the otherwise still apartment, drawing a frown of confusion from the cellist. Placing her empty mug on the coffee table, Octavia drew to her feet and approached the door and paused before swinging it open. Tears unwittingly sprung to her eyes as she took in the sight of the small army at her door, sparkling amethyst eyes meeting familiar amber.

"Note, Rose, everyone... what are you all doing here?"

The conductor merely smiled and chuckled, hands lifting to stuff into the pockets of his slacks.

"Good afternoon, Octavia. Might we come in?"

Gobsmacked, the player stood back and offered her apartment to her section members. Rosin smiled at Symphony as she stood beside the couch, winking soundly before focusing on the cellist.

"We're sorry to just drop by unannounced, Miss Octavia, but we've just come from practice and felt that coming to see you would be most important."

Losing her fight with the small tears that peppered her eyes, Octavia smiled reluctantly and studied the smiling faces of her section members.

"It's marvelous to see all of you, thank you."

Ivory Tone, the second oldest member of the section, stepped forward from behind Noteworthy, a familiar red book clasped gently in her hands.

"Octavia, you're the leader of our section, and we patiently await your return to the circuit. We'll continue to practice as a unit while you're still on the mend, but... You'll always be our leader. I cannot wait to take the stage with you again, Principal."

All but ignoring the tears, Octavia sniffled before snatching the woman in a hug.

"Thank you."

The emotional cellist quickly hugged the rest of her section, ignoring the burning ache in her shoulder at the movement. Noteworthy cleared his throat with a large grin, eyes raking over the elated presence of his lead cellist.

"The orchestra anxiously awaits your return, so we can perform as a full unit again. Rest well, my dear, yes?"

Nodding, the raven-haired player squeezed the book in her arms as she watched the small group quietly leave her apartment. Following to close the door, Octavia suddenly found herself in a fierce, but gentle, embrace with Rosin, the shorter girl squeezing her around the waist.

"Tell my idiot cousin to take care of you, okay?"

Pulling away, the young player flashed a brilliant smile before scurrying out the door. Turning at the sound of sniffles, Octavia smiled sweetly to the violinist.

"Don't look at me like that, it's stuffy in here."

Shaking her head, Octavia dropped her eyes downward to study the intricate pattern on the cover of her music book. Pressing her lips together, a new set of tears emerged, tempered by the sad spiral of wrinkles across her forehead.

"Now if only I had a cello."

Blinking quickly, Octavia shot a look up to Symphony as she slipped the book from her grasp before wrapping a supportive arm around her, leading her toward the door.

"We'll get there, darling. Now let's go eat."

Allowing Symphony to steer her out of the apartment, Octavia grinned, happy to follow along. The violet-haired violinist tapped the elevator button before spinning, trapping the cellist with a meaningful look.

"How are things in paradise?"

"Wonderful."

Eyeing her carefully, Symphony suppressed a smirk.

"Are you guys really okay? I mean, really? Did you talk? Are you a thing? You never give me details, and I haven't seen Vinyl in a while. You guys keep weird hours."

The doors to the elevator opened, admitting the pair to the quiet haven.

"Yes, I think we're officially a couple. I'm taking Vinyl on a date tonight."

"Oh yeah? Where to? You guys gonna get busy?"

Ignoring the lecherous smirk, Octavia nudged the violinist with her elbow before stepping out of the stopped elevator.

"Well, I... It's silly, really. I don't even think she'll like it."

"Oh, don't do that. I'll be the judge! So c'mon, tell me."

"Well, considering Vinyl and I have very different tastes... I booked us the 8 o'clock show of Rouge."

Symphony ground to a halt, a surprised smile curling her lips.

"Vinyl's been raving about Rouge for practically ever, how did you get tickets!? They sell out almost instantly. We've all tried!"

Absently kicking at a wet leaf on the sidewalk, Octavia managed a coy smile.

"My father went to University with the director."

"She's going to lose her frickin' mind."

Flushing, Octavia grinned before opening the car door and slid inside.

Vinyl paced a rut in the floor, hands mindlessly smoothing the front of her suit jacket as she moved. Lyra and Spitfire sat lazily on the couch, draped casually over one another as they played away at a mindless video game. Finally sighing, Spitfire paused the game and tossed an apologetic grin to the lyrist before climbing to her feet and approached the antsy spinner.

"Dude, Vinyl, calm the hell down. You look like you're about to combust."

Ignoring the comment, Vinyl cast an uneasy glare to the pilot.

"I'm fine, Spit. Go back to playing."

"Nah, I'd much rather watch you pace a hole in the floor. It's a date. With Octavia! Why are you so skittish?"

Stopping to stare irritatedly at the smug flyer, Vinyl angrily curled her hands on her hips.

"Because it's a date with Octavia. I know we've been practically dating for like... a week already. But this is a date. Do you know the last date I was on? Symphony!"

Failing miserably to contain her giggles, Spitfire avoided the jockey's half-hearted swat, earning her an exasperated growl. Lyra finally climbed to her feet and sauntered over to the pair, casually leaning an arm across Spitfire's shoulders.

"Okay, bonehead, calm down. You have absolutely nothing to prove here, nothing to worry about, nothing to stress about. You've already got the girl, she knows you're mental and still loves you anyway. All you're doing is going out and doing something and maybe eating food. If you're lucky, you might even get laid. So seriously, babe, relax."

"Shut your face, Heartstrings."

Slapping the still chuckling stunt pilot, Lyra detangled from the woman and approached the rarely nervous spinner.

"Vinyl, it's okay. You're not gonna mess up. Where's the confidence?"

"Uh, down the drain, considering she can turn me to mush just by blinking."

"Oh, you're so cute. Stop, it hurts!"

Shoving the lyrist into Spitfire, the embarrassed DJ continued to pace before a soft knock instantly ceased her movement. Grinning, Spitfire took a step toward the door, only to be shoved backward, a stupidly grinning Vinyl instead placing a hand on the knob. Pulling open the door, Vinyl felt her smile widen, her eyes carefully taking in the immaculately dressed Octavia.

"Hi."

"Hey."

Grinning, the glowing cellist cast a happy smile to the pair behind the DJ.

"Ladies."

Twin waves greeted her, bemused snickers escaping the two women. Vinyl waved a hand, instantly silencing the two.

"You look... gre-- You look beautiful."

"Thank you. You look fantastic. Ready?"

"You bet."

Turning a serious eye to the two remaining women, Vinyl lifted a warning finger.

"The two of you better be out of here by the time I get back, understood?"

Without waiting for confirmation, Vinyl followed the cellist out the door and down toward the waiting limo. Grinning appreciatively, Vinyl moved to open the rear door for the woman, offering her hand to the cellist.

"After you."

Nodding her thanks, Octavia slid into the backseat, carefully smoothing the charcoal dress as she settled. Vinyl slid in beside her, vibrant eyes glittering.

"Really, you look incredible."

"Speak for yourself."

Adjusting the blue bowtie, Vinyl nestled into the seating before slipping her hand in Octavia's, fingers automatically intertwining. Sliding her eyes upward, Vinyl stopped the cellist with a meaningful smile.

"So, where are we going?"

"It's a surprise."

Wrinkling her nose, Vinyl placed a quick peck on the cellist's cheek before turning her attention to the passing of the quiet city, intently wondering where the cellist was taking them. Octavia leaned back against the seating, mulberry eyes watching the DJ in delight. Squeezing the hand in her grasp, the cellist casually waited before finding herself drowning in the impressive red eyes. Thankful for the privacy divider, Octavia carefully tangled her hands in the spinner's hair before gently pressing her lips to the DJ's, drawing her in for a slow, burning kiss.

Pulling away slightly, Octavia ignored the skittering chill across her shoulders and dropped her hands to the spinner's shoulders.

"I hope you enjoy this evening."

"I already am."

Feeling the car rolling to a stop, Octavia dropped the divider in time to see Martin step out of the car and come around, opening the door for the women.

"Ladies."

Smiling at the older man, Octavia deftly exited the rear of the car, waiting patiently for Vinyl to climb out as well. Nodding appreciatively, the cellist patted the driver's shoulder.

"Thank you, Martin. We should be good for this evening. I do so appreciate your kindness."

Tipping his hat to the couple, the man smiled brightly before heading back behind the wheel. Shifting forward, Octavia stopped as she felt the DJ remain standing.

"What is it, darling?"

"You got tickets to Rouge!"

Grinning, the dark-haired player nodded affirmatively.

"I did. Curtain is soon, shall we go?"

Ignoring the people milling about the front of the theatre, Vinyl pulled the cellist into her arms and kissed her soundly.

"Mm, now we can go."

Blinking away the heady feeling, Octavia smirked as she felt Vinyl lead them inside.

Stumbling out of the theatre almost two hours later, the two were left almost doubled over in laughter. Vinyl straightened eventually, a hearty laugh still rumbling from the spinner as she hooked her arm around the cellist. Leading them in a slow walk down the street, Vinyl eventually settled, a contagious smile splitting her face. Octavia fell in step beside her, arm threading through Vinyl's as they walked.

"That was marvelous! I really didn't know what to expect, but it was rather brilliant!"

Bobbing her head in agreement, Vinyl patted the cellist's hand that rested on her forearm.

"Thanks for taking me, Tav. I had a blast. Are we getting dinner? Anywhere special?"

Hiding a sheepish grin, the cellist buried her face into the spinner's suit-clad shoulder.

"Well, I'm not very good at this sort of thing... I figured we might go to Peg's? It's right in this neighborhood, and--"

"You're a girl after my own heart."

Leaning down, Vinyl placed a small kiss on the player's cheek before untangling from the loose embrace, only to shrug out of her suit coat. Ignoring the confused plea of the strings player, Vinyl draped the warmed garment around the woman before happily threading their fingers together again.

"You know you're cold with that little tiny jacket. Fashionable, not functional."

Tossing a wry sneer to the jockey, Octavia happily snuggled into the warm jacket before exhaling happily. A short stroll, peppered by cheesy jokes and bad punch lines, found them standing before the chrome behemoth, the many flickers of neon lights illuminating them in a vibrant, glowing rainbow. Tugging on the heavy handles, Vinyl held the door for her date.

"After you, Miss Priss."

"Thank you, Pon 3."

Once seated, the pair perused the menu, a familiar nostalgia bolting through the cellist as she recalled their first meal together.

"Do you remember the first time we came here?"

Snorting, the DJ dropped the menu on the table and curled her body forward, eyes narrowing suggestively.

"Of course. You told me you never had a milkshake, and then proceeded to demolish a pizza burger."

"Vegetarian tomato-basil burger."

"If you must be snooty."

Crinkling her nose, Octavia grinned at her companion.

"I must. Thank you for your coat, I hadn't realized it was going to be this chilly."

Vinyl simply winked before leaning across the table to study Octavia's menu, foreheads touching as they looked. The familiar waitress stepped up to the table, a kind smile curling her lips.

"Hello, girls. Still need a minute?"

Without taking her eyes off Octavia, Vinyl snickered.

"You know what I like, Dottie."

Eyes rising to meet Vinyl's, Octavia grinned and handed her menu to the woman.

"Yes, I do believe you know what I like as well."

Smiling knowingly at the pair, Dottie scurried off to place the order. Vinyl continued to perch across the table, settled comfortably on crossed elbows as she studied the contented cellist. Lifting an arm, Vinyl absently curled a loose strand of black hair behind the player's ear, drawing an earnest grin from the musician.

"Have I ever told you that you're beautiful, Miss Melody?"

Blushing but keeping the steady gaze, Octavia curved her mouth into an elated smile.

"Yes, you have, actually."

"Would you be mad at me if I kissed you in the middle of this restaurant?"

"Absolutely not."

Suppressing a wide grin, Vinyl pushed forward, closing the small gap between them to place a soft, lingering kiss on the earnest lips. Breaking contact, Vinyl pulled away and grinned before settling herself on her own bench, leaving the flushed cellist smiling brilliantly across the table. Blinking open her eyes, Octavia torched the jockey with a smoldering smile.

"I love when you kiss me, Vinyl Scratch."

Disregarding the pounding heat in her cheeks, Vinyl grinned smugly.

"I'm addicted to your taste."

Battling the torrential flood of warmth, Octavia ignored the blistering comment as she heard Dot returning with their milkshakes. With promises of food on the way, the older woman slid easily away, leaving the couple in a haze of laughter and shameless comments, laced with jovial intent.

Eventually fed and stuffed, the two musicians crept from the diner and continued the late-night stroll, a heavy moon hanging low above them. Vinyl's hand remained curled in Octavia's, the latter chattering aimlessly as they continued the journey home. Snuggling into Vinyl's side, the joyous player sighed peacefully.

"My players came to visit me today."

"Did they? That was nice of them."

"Noteworthy told me that my section will maintain in my absence, and that my players eagerly await my return. They returned my music book to me... I don't think I've ever been so flattered in all my life. It's good to know my section members think so well of me."

Gently gripping the cool fingers in her grasp, Vinyl gently bumped her head to Octavia's.

"You're talented and love your music, anyone can see that. I'm glad your guys stand behind you and support you while you're getting better."

Releasing a weighty sigh, Octavia cast her eyes to the ground as they walked, carefully to skip around the small puddles littering the walk.

"Yes, but how can I practice and strengthen my arm if there is no instrument for me to play? I want so much to hate Stella Artois for doing this, but..."

"You can't."

"No, I can't."

Vinyl smiled in that moment, the light tickling the crimson irises with potent force.

"You're a good person, Tav."

Octavia simply accepted the compliment before lapsing into silence, thoughts wandering while they continued the lazy stroll. Time found them standing outside the Astoria, drawing the cellist back into the present. Vinyl again squeezed the fingers in her grasp, her vision absently wandering the structure before them.

"So is this where you kiss me good night and send me up on my way?"

"No, this is where you invite me up for tea and warm pajamas."

Laughing heartily, Vinyl led them through the familiar doors and into the elevator before pouring out and headed toward her apartment. Unlocking the heavy door, the pair slipped inside, reveling in the calming heat that festered around the apartment. Casually walking the familiar area, Octavia scanned the room, noticing things distinctly Vinyl, always touched at the wonderful simplicity. Grinning to the jockey as she approached with a warm pair of gray flannel pajamas, Octavia finally shrugged off the heavy coat.

"You're too good to me, Vinyl."

"Yeah, well, somebody's gotta do it."

Placing the pants on the back of the arm chair, Octavia carefully stepped toward Vinyl, amethyst eyes glittering in the soft light of the apartment. Lifting her arms to rest around the jockey's shoulders, Octavia hummed as she curled herself in the player's arms.

"I hope you enjoyed our date."

Vinyl sighed, arms sliding around the soft material of the cellist's dress as she hugged her close.

"I absolutely did. I also have something for you."

Surprised, Octavia pulled away from the comforting embrace.

"Do you?"

"Yep. Now sit on the couch and close your eyes, okay?"

"Vinyl, I--"

"Tav, come on. Please?"

Huffing in defeat, the cellist bowed her deference and sunk into the cushions, thankful to be off her feet. Staring openly at the spinner as she rolled up the sleeves on her black dress shirt, Octavia leaned back and crossed her legs, content to watch the jockey. Pinning the cellist with a quirked eyebrow, Vinyl lifted her hands to undo the silk tie before sliding it off and placing it in her breast pocket. Motioning for the cellist to close her eyes, Vinyl patiently waited before turning to retrieve the object of her affection, face splitting with a large grin.

Impatient, the cellist crossed her arms and strained to hear, unnerved when the silence stretched on for long minutes. Finally a sound just near her startled her, forcing her lids to flutter and open, focus instantly zeroing in on Vinyl as she sat on the coffee table before her. Grinning slyly, Vinyl shook an accusatory finger before a small laugh bubbled free from within her chest. Motioning to the polished case across her lap, Vinyl smiled ruefully at the cellist.

"This is for you."

Raven brows furrowed, a web of wrinkles marring the once-calm forehead. Lifting her hands to run over the large case, Octavia tossed a confused look at the cheshire jockey.

"Vinyl, is there a cello inside this case?"

"Well, if you'd open it, you'd know."

Ignoring the gleeful sarcasm, Octavia passed her eyes over the case again, decidedly settling upon a dark frown.

"Vinyl, cellos are increasingly expensive. I really hope you didn't... I mean, surely, you... Scratch, this would have worked itself out even--"

"Octavia, please... just open the case."

Holding the jockey's steady gaze, Octavia licked her lips and nodded, focus dropping to again run across the smooth surface of the case. Shaking fingers worked the clasp on the holder, undoing each with quiet respect. Dropping her left hand to the lip, Octavia released a breath and slowly raised the lid, a myriad of tears suddenly flowing from the mulberry eyes. A polished black cello lay within the case, the glossy finish shimmering beautifully in the light. Octavia squeezed shut her eyes and shook her head, hand blindly reaching for Vinyl's forearm as she continued to hold the lid.

"Vinyl, n-no. I can't. I can't."

Smiling softly, Vinyl slid the case from her lap and placed it on the table beside her before carefully lifting the instrument from the emerald silk it rested within so wonderfully. Drawing the large cello across her body, she dropped the endpin and propped the magnificent piece up before the cellist.

"Yes, you can. I want you to have it."

Octavia, through the downpour of tears, shook her head before covering her mouth, a deep shuddering echoing from between the closed digits.

"No, Vinyl, I-- This cello. No, Celestia, I can't."

Ignoring the pleading words, Vinyl slid her fingers to Octavia, prying the balled fist from her lap and slowly curled the fingers around the neck of the instrument. Eyes shining, Vinyl patted Octavia's hand before letting go, allowing the cellist to hold the revered instrument.

"You really can, Tav."

Dropping her other hand, Octavia carefully lifted the cello and stroked her fingers down the smooth finish, studying the well-loved instrument. Brushing a thumb over the left F hole, Octavia swallowed a new set of tears before stopping the spinner with a heartfelt look.

"Vinyl, this is... Fleur Noir. One of your mother's most prized cellos."

"I know. Which is why I want you to have it."

"Scratch..."

Vinyl shifted off the table to sit beside the cellist before wrapping a comforting arm around the emotional player.

"My mother always told me that instruments are meant to be played and adored, not enshrined and untouched. I still have her baby, her Arbre Blanc. I want you to have it because you have that same reverence for music that she did, the same pride for perfection that made her the best in the world."

Still clutching the neck of the renowned cello, Octavia turned in her seat to stare at the DJ.

"This gift... it's too precious. It's too close to your heart. I'm not worthy of this honor."

Fighting her own tears, Vinyl lifted her hand to cup the strings player's cheek.

"You are my heart. You're worthy of everything that I have and so much more, you know? You're unlike anyone I ever met, which is why I was so afraid for so long. But now? Not even a chance. Take this little token and just remember the love behind it, okay?"

Wiping at her eyes with her free hand, Octavia nodded and dropped her eyes back to the cello, a wonderful sense of pride filling the player at the powerful gift. Feeling a soft brush against her palm, Octavia slowly turned the body over in her hands, eyes instantly drawn to the smoky letters carved into the back of the neck.

Camille Violoncelle...
...Octavia Melody

Ignoring the onslaught of tears, Octavia traced the carved letters, both new and old before carefully reaching forward to stow the cello in its silk haven before securing the lid. Retracting to the couch, Octavia lifted her hands to Vinyl, fingers nimbly sliding across the pale skin of her jockey.

"Your gift... it's wonderful."

"My mom would have loved you. I'm sure she's honored that you have it now."

Octavia studied the tearful eyes of her companion for a long while before spurring her body into action, sliding over to straddle the player's lap before wrapping her legs and arms around her in a bone crushing hug. Threading her fingers through the choppy blue locks, Octavia buried her face in the spinner's neck, a surge of emotion powering through her bones. Pulling away just enough to brush her forehead against Vinyl's, Octavia ran trembling fingers down the woman's flushed skin.

"I love you more than life itself, Vinyl Scratch. Thank you for helping me soar."

Vinyl gently bit her lip, eyes watering to a placid blur.

"I love you, too, Octavia Melody. Thank you for helping me sing."

Author's Notes:

Ooookay,here it goes: This story is basically over. And by basically, I mean this is pretty much the end. I do want to post an epilogue/follow up chapter, though, but it'll probably be NSFW. That way, you guys know it's coming, and no one gets offended!

I loved this story, and I can't wait to write another. Some fun tidbits about this story, though? I wrote the entire thing while listening to Evanescence, Symphony's hair color changed halfway through, and my visual versions of Vinyl and Octavia are based on JohnJoseco's versions of them, because they are perfect.

Thanks to everyone for the support! I hope it lives up to itself for you guys... So, enjoy, and happy Saturday!