Virtuosa Cash made a quick sweep of the apartment, lips twisting in thought as she passed over the neat dwelling, inky black eyebrows rising thoughtfully. The red-gold eyes suddenly shifted back to the unsettled Octavia, the fiery orbs raking uncomfortably down the bedraggled cellist. Smiling humorlessly, the tall woman shifted the weight of her bag and softly cleared her throat, those same fiery eyes narrowing at her daughter.

"Your father is very unhappy, Octavia."

Sighing deeply, Octavia moved passed her mother to enter the kitchen, attempting to keep her quivering hands busy. Plucking the kettle off the stove, she quickly refilled it and placed it on the burner before turning the flame. Approaching a cabinet, she quickly withdrew two mugs and set them down on the counter before moving to remove the tea bags and place them into the cups. Hands on the counter, Octavia inhaled slowly and exhaled sharply before turning back toward the icy figure.

"And why is daddy upset?"

Taking a few steps closer, the imposing creature shifted her bag onto the counter before sauntering up to the woman, left hand moving to absently push the messy bangs back from the cellist's stress-lined face.

"Oh, my darling Octavia. You know why your father would be so upset. All that trouble, and you leave the concertmaster for some--"

"Don't say it."

Turning her attention back to the almost-boiling kettle, Octavia moved her hand to turn off the gas, fingers trembling as she quickly flicked off the knob. Grabbing the rubber handle, she lifted the kettle to swiftly fill the cups, hand shaking as she replaced the teapot. Lifting both cups, she offered a mug to her mother and carefully walked to sit stiffly on the couch, face approaching a panicked neutral. Virtuosa leaned casually against the entryway of the kitchen, her molten eyes watching her daughter with the utmost intrigue, attempting to dissect the current state in which she sat. Smiling briefly, the former singer glanced down at her mug as she bobbed the tea bag up and down, carefully mulling over her words.

"Mother... why did you come here?"

Honey-red met stirring mulberry, the latter quick to drop from the intensity of the gaze. Eyes darkening, Virtuosa approached the couch and dropped gently onto the cushion; Octavia squirmed imperceptibly, jaw clenching as their eyes met once more.

"Vinyl Scratch is not who you think she is, dear. Trust me."

"And how do you know that? Are you running people that I spend time with?"

Eyes hooded, Virtuosa smiled before taking a sip of her tea. Octavia sprung up suddenly, nervous energy disallowing her the normal curtness in which she commonly used when dealing with the threatening woman. Her mother watched her pace, a bored expression washing over her face. Annoyed, she quickly placed her tea cup on a coaster and stood, high-heeled feet moving easily to stand in the way of Octavia's frenetic pacing.

"Dear, please just relax. I'm only here because Sapphire called me last night and told me about your little tiff with Stella and Concerto... Saying you've slept with a woman you hardly know anything of, and denying a fine man the chance to sweep you off your feet. I'm only worried about your--"

Eyes flashing, Octavia snapped her focus up to land outrageously on the woman.

"Don't begin this nonsense with me, mother. I didn't refuse any man the chance to sweep me off my feet. Concerto called me not three hours before the starting time and cancelled on me, citing some ridiculous illness. I was left without a date, and Vinyl happily filled that role. You're not worried about me at all, you're worried about what would happen to your reputation should I mysteriously turn into a lesbian."

Face morphing from placid to deadly, Virtuosa stepped forward to look down onto the cellist, her red-gold eyes almost like dancing flames as she scorched the younger woman with a venomous glare.

"Watch your tone with me, Octavia. I'm not your father. And do not think for a moment that you have any power over me in such a way. You cannot be more of a disappointment if you tried. Your father is merely concerned that you're falling into the ranks with a profound liar, and, quite frankly, a noted criminal. She didn't even finish her schooling!"

Orbs fluttering, Octavia took an uneasy step backward, eyebrows drawing her forehead into a web of confused wrinkles. Virtuosa, sensing the immediate shift in demeanor, smoothly closed the space between them again, both hands moving up to cup the strings player's conflicting face. Smiling darkly down at her daughter, Virtuosa purred slightly, words rolling casually off her sharp tongue.

"Dear, I know it's hard for you to accept that your father and I care about your well-being, but I really am here to caution you about who you bide your time with. The motley bunch of musicians you seem to be drawn the most toward is virtually acceptable... but I cannot sit idly by and allow you to fall into a trap with that monster. She's not who she appears to be."

Shaking her head, Octavia backed up once more, effectively breaking her mother's hold. Lifting her hands to run nervously through her sleep-twisted hair, she attempted to calm her nerves, refusing to give into the questions that suddenly swirled uncomfortably in her mind.

"Mother, you need better things to fill out your day--"

"And you need better people to fill out yours."

Backing up, Virtuosa turned and moved to grab her bag off the counter. Rifling through it, she took out a plain manila folder and opened it before sliding out a magazine. Tossing the book onto the coffee table, Virtuosa stood smug, fiery eyes dark. Octavia swallowed uncomfortably and shuffled forward to peek at the book. Tears unwittingly springing to her eyes, she quickly scooped up the offending print and looked, horrified, at the cover.

'Melody caught with a woman!'

The photo was the very moment they had been outside the massive venue when Octavia had placed a grateful kiss on the jockey's cheek. Blinking through her tears, Octavia flipped open the book to the flagged pages, eyes scanning the few pictures of the two of them together: arms threaded together outside; both sitting comfortably with one another at their table; and a few others that Octavia lost focus on. Sensing the drastic shift, Virtuosa moved to stand just before her daughter, hand moving to slip the tabloid out from the player's grasp. The tears the cellist tried so hard to contain suddenly rolled down the stony face, matching streaks marring the pale skin.

Virtuosa lifted her hands to wipe at the tears, the motion jerking Octavia back into the present, agonized amethyst eyes lifting to stare helplessly at her mother. Smiling reflexively, the older woman suddenly receded and approached her bag once more, sliding in the tabloid but removing a small packet of papers. Approaching the emotionally tormented player, Virtuosa smiled ruefully down at her daughter.

"Your father paid off the man with this article, hence his displeasure with you; scum like this expects big money for their stories. We will not be made to pay for your shenanigans in the future, Octavia. But this time, we took pity on you and stopped the story from running."

Handing the packet of papers to the cellist, Virtuosa's smile widened even further. Looking down at the papers, Octavia sniffled absently, glassy violet eyes staring unseeing at the report. Moving forward, Virtuosa removed the report from her hands and flipped through the pages before plucking free the one she sought. Turning the page toward the cellist, she bit back a smile at seeing the blow hit hard on Octavia.

The cellist stared, aghast, at the obvious mug shot of the DJ, mulberry eyes looking disbelievingly at the cuts and bruises on the DJ's slack, emotionless face. Absently lifting her hand to receive the picture from her mother, Octavia scanned the shot, an uneasiness building in her stomach at the sight. Virtuosa lifted her bag to her shoulder before casually tossing the manila folder onto the coffee table. Walking to stand beside the cellist, she smiled down at the photograph and then to Octavia, molten eyes dancing.

"According to the report, she was both high and intoxicated when she attacked a woman on the streets. A group of men noticed the scuffle and attempted to break them up, but whatever she was on... those men never stood a chance. Your precious Vinyl was charged with aggravated assault, drug possession, assaulting an officer, and for carrying a concealed weapon. All over the woman calling her a lez."

The photo slipped, unnoticed, for the cellist's grasp, haunted eyes moving to lock onto her mother's. Smiling kindly, Virtuosa patted the cellist's shoulder before approaching the door to leave. Pausing at the threshold, the raven-haired woman cast a tempered look back at the cellist.

"You're a grown woman, Octavia, free to do as you please. But Vinyl really isn't a nice person... Don't let her put her spell over you, you're so much better than this. Good day, my sweet, mommy loves you."

The door clicked shut just before Octavia burst into fitful sobs.

Vinyl yawned loudly and stretched before rolling easily from her bed. The sun peaked playfully through the heavy curtains in her room, the warm shafts of early fall sunlight warming the DJ as she walked toward her kitchen. Pausing to throw open the drapes, Vinyl casually slid open the window and breathed deeply. Smiling, she turned her attention back toward the kitchen and slipped inside, hand absently turning on the tea pot as she entered. Rummaging through her cabinets, she plucked out a bag of poppy seed bagels, the simple sight causing her to smile brightly. Pulling one free and stowing the rest, Vinyl made quick work of cutting the bagel and placed it in the toaster. Running her hands through the wild bed hair, Vinyl slipped free from the kitchen and approached the coffee table.

Picking up her phone, she casually flipped through the contacts, mind wandering on who she could spend part of her day with. Deciding on the cellist, she sent a quick morning text to the woman before tucking the phone in the waist band of her pajamas. The spewing steam caught her attention and she fumbled with the teabag container, finally dropping it into her cup and poured the water. A knock at her door forced her focus to slip, causing her to spill the burning liquid. Jerking away, she cursed before replacing the kettle and approached the door.

"Yeah, I'm friggin' coming..."

Opening the door, she smiled at the two women on the other side and dutifully stepped aside, allowing the couple into her place. Bonbon, from behind Lyra, popped her head around her lover and smiled brilliantly at the DJ.

"Good morning, V. I'd like to inquire about your girlfriend-sitting service?"

Vinyl shifted her focus to the cheesy smile plastered across the lyrist's face, bag nestled tightly in her grasp. Turning thoughtfully toward Bonbon, Vinyl dramatically tapped her chin, humming loudly.

"Ohhh, I don't know. It's gonna cost you."

Smiling wickedly, Bonbon tossed a white paper bag to the DJ. Catching the bag, the excited DJ laughed loudly before drawing forward to place a sloppy kiss on the candy maker's cheek. With her free hand, Vinyl playfully shoved Lyra further into her apartment before bowing gratefully to the colorful confectioner.

"Your offering of caramel squares is graciously accepted. I'll have your girlfriend bathed and dressed for you after the close of business this evening."

Chuckling at the DJ, Bonbon ruffled the wild, blue-striped hair before approaching the lyrist. Whispering to the strings player, Bonbon quickly placed a firm kiss on her lover's pouting lips before turning. Smacking the jockey's ass on the way out, B turned and winked playfully before closing the door behind her. Spinning, Vinyl nodded to her longtime friend before making her way back into the kitchen. Following suit, Lyra hopped up on the counter and plucked an apple out of the bowl before taking a hearty bite. Flicking her focus to the DJ, Lyra smiled, legs kicking gently as she sat.

"So tell me, V... You have fun last night?"

"You already know the answer to that."

Finished with spreading the cream cheese, Vinyl offered the bagel to the lyrist, pleased when she took it without a second thought. Moving to grab another bagel, Vinyl placed it into the toaster and moved to turn the kettle back on. Eyes dancing with merriment, Lyra took a large bite out of the bagel before regarding the jockey.

"Anything happen with you and Octavia last night?"

"Nope. I sent her and Symphony's drunk asses home and then came back here."

"Drunk asses, huh? Ever the vigilant friend, V."

Nodding, the DJ poured another cup for Lyra before spreading the cream cheese on her bagel. Hopping up to sit next to the lyrist, they both sat in companionable silence for a while, each lost in thought. Eventually, Lyra grunted as she swallowed her last bite of bagel.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you... Sapphire threatened Brass and Nandermane last night, said to make sure you and Octavia watch your backs."

Snorting, Vinyl wiped her hand across her mouth before putting down her plate and lifted her mug to take a sip of the tea.

"When aren't Shores and Artois being complete and total assholes?"

"Sapphire never used to be like that, you know that. It's when Artois came into shit that she changed. Oh man, remember the crush she had on you in school? She followed you everywhere."

"Yeah, don't remind me."

Plucking free the phone from her waistband, Vinyl smiled at the screen, an amused chuckle echoing from deep within her.

"I texted Octavia, and still haven't heard back. She and Symphony must still be sleeping off their hangovers."

Snatching the DJ's phone, Lyra thumbed through the contacts before landing on the familiar face and then dialed the call.

The phone on the bedside table began to ring once more, causing the cocooned violinist to finally unfurl from the blankets. Groaning loudly, she absently reached for the offending device before blindly answering the call.

"Somebody better be dead, I swear to Celestia."

"Well good morning, Sunshine."

Confused at the voice on the other end, Symphony looked down at her phone, further afflicted when she saw that it was indeed Vinyl that had called her.

"Lyra?"

"How's the hangover?"

"Hangover-y. What do you want?"

"Come hang out with me, Scratch, and, later, the guys. Vinyl's holding a band practice today. It should be fun!"

Groaning, Symphony sat up and groaned, annoyed at the sunlight pouring in through the curtains. Looking around, her sleep-fuzzed brain finally noticed she was not in her own bedroom. Images from the night before filtered across her subconscious, finally clicking in her head.

"I'm not even home. I'll maybe call you back later."

Without a thought, she hung up the phone and managed to force her way from under the blankets to eventually stand. Absently brushing her fingers through her hair, Symphony approached the barely-opened door before kicking it open and approached the living area. Finally cresting the hallway, Symphony focused uneasily on the cellist that sat on her couch, legs curled under her, eyes staring blankly at the wall before her. Frowning, Symphony walked to stand beside the cellist.

"Hey, Octavia?"

There was no answer. The tear-stained face made no move to respond, the glassy, unfocused eyes unwavering. The teacup clasped tightly in her hands was still full, though untouched. Reaching out a tentative hand, Symphony gently touched the cellist's shoulder. With an exaggerated slowness, Octavia managed to drag her eyes up to focus coolly on the violinist, stony face unmoving as she stared.

"Please get out."

Frowning, Symphony bent down to better hear the soft, raspy voice, lavender eyebrows drawn high on her forehead.

"What was that, O--"

"I said get out."

Jerking back, Symphony frowned down at the cellist, distraught. An irritated air swept across Octavia in that moment, the glassy amethyst eyes suddenly darkening as they zeroed in on the violinist. Noticing the instant shift, Symphony held her hands up and smiled uneasily before eventually retreating back into the bedroom. A few moments later, she reemerged with her things and made her way toward the door. Stopping, she turned a concerned look to the obviously upset musician. Focusing on the swirling mulberry orbs, Symphony smiled sadly at her friend.

"What is it, Octavia? Please tell me."

Eyes fluttering briefly at the sentiment, Octavia bit back the tears she felt forming again before shaking her head at the violinist.

"Please just go, Symphony. I'll see you at practice."

Frowning, Symphony nodded and carefully turned the knob. Casting a lasting, distressed look at the raven-haired musician, the violinist smiled sadly and carefully closed the door behind her. Once outside, though, she turned suddenly, almost bursting back through the door to better understand the cellist's volatile emotions. She stopped, however, and sadly slid her grip from the door and headed down the hallway.

Not long after, and the violinist was pushing her way through the unlocked door and stopped suddenly, focused on the pair as they sat, exchanging notes in uncharacteristic silence. Red eyes turning, Vinyl smiled at the violinist before noticing the evident sadness echoing from the teal eyes. Standing, the jockey approached the violinist, hands lifting to gently grasp the musician's upper arms.

"Hey, Symph, what's wrong?"

Smiling through her discomfort, she shook her head and casually slid back from the DJ's grasp. Grinning at the equally confused lyrist, Symphony nodded before easily passing the jockey.

"I need a shower."

Disappearing down the hallway, Symphony left the two musicians confused in her wake. Turning to look at Lyra, Vinyl half-shrugged her shoulder before approaching her spot on the floor in front of the lyrist; a while later, Symphony reemerged, showered and dressed. Lyra smiled up at the lavender-haired strings player, golden eyes twinkling in delight.

"I see you still borrow V's clothes, eh?"

Smiling, she sat down on the floor beside both of the other women. Vinyl, unconvinced at Symphony's mood, turned a questioning glance to the woman.

"I thought you had an Orchestra thing today?"

"I do."

Narrowing her eyes in thought, Vinyl tilted her head at her friend.

"Okay, so then why aren't you with Octavia?"

"She asked me to leave. She was rather upset, but offered no explanation when I asked. She just told me to get out."

Vinyl and Lyra both frowned, suddenly unnerved at the news. Vinyl gathered her phone and flipped through the contacts before landing on Octavia's number, her thumb pushing the dial button reflexively as she lifted to her ear. After only two rings, the call suddenly went to voicemail. Frowning, Vinyl dialed again, only to be greeted by the automated voice once more. Exhaling quickly, she focused her attention on both women before half-heartedly tossing her phone on the floor.

"She ignored my call, and then shut her phone off."

Passing her attention from Vinyl, Symphony absently looked down, fingers pulling at a string at the hem of her pilfered shirt. Sighing, she ran a hand through her damp hair before grabbing at the notes the two women had splayed between them. Symphony focused on the words, a small smile spreading across her face.

"Are these songs?"

Snatching at the paper, Vinyl smiled sweetly.

"Yeah. Wanted to get back into it, you know."

Symphony smiled and swatted at the jockey. Turning her attention toward the lyrist as she cleared her throat, the violinist leaned her chin onto the DJ's shoulder before regarding the mint-haired player.

"Yes, Lyr?"

"When do you have practice?"

"I have to leave in a few if I want to get back in time to pick up my violin and make it to the hall... Why?"

Vinyl turned her head toward the violinist as she remained perched on her shoulder, red eyes glimmering.

"Check up on Octavia for me. I hope it's nothing I did."

Symphony slid her hands through the soft, two-tone hair and smiled kindly to the unsure jockey.

"Oh, love, I doubt it's you. She had a blast last night."

Smiling sadly, Vinyl nodded before her eyes dropped down to the violinist's outfit.

"You steal my underwear, too?"

Grinning maliciously, Symphony jerked forward to place a kiss on the jockey's temple before springing to her feet. Playful teal locked onto mirthful red, a lascivious smile splitting the violinist's face.

"Not that it's any of your business, but I'm not wearing any."

Both the seated players burst out laughing at the comment, tempered by Vinyl's eyes as she marveled up at Symphony, red eyes twinkling.

"Oh, damn, you can keep those pants!"

Grinning softly, Symphony pinned the expectant DJ with a sultry gaze.

"What's wrong, Scratch? You used to like when I got into your pants."

Lyra snorted as she barked out a laugh, instantly humored at Vinyl's face. Not to be outdone, the jockey stood and slid up to the violinist, red eyes slitting seductively.

"I always was so good at getting you out of your pants and into mine, wasn't I, Strings?"

Flushing at the comment, Symphony playfully poked the jockey's chest.

"Okay, you win."

Smiling smugly, she tossed a look back to the rapt lyrist, goofy smile planted firmly on her face. Turning back to the violinist, she bobbed her head at her old friend.

"You should get going. And keep an eye on Octavia for me, okay? You got me all worried now... Let me know what's up."

Eyes crinkling in delight, Symphony nodded respectfully. Sliding around the jockey, Symphony absently ruffled the mint-striped hair before disappearing out the door. The two remaining shared a humored look, the lyrist being the first to speak.

"You are totally hooked, V."

Symphony approached the massive concert hall and slid in through the large doors. She smiled at her section as she approached before planting her violin safely on her seat. Turning, her teal eyes scanned the large swarm of musicians before eventually finding the stoic cellist. Pushing passed a group of players, she approached the woman.

Octavia looked up, eyes looking tiredly at the violinist as she planted herself before her. Eyes softening, Symphony knelt down before Octavia, a small smile attempting to twist her lips.

"Octavia, what's wrong?"

Searching the teal eyes before her, Octavia slowly shook her head, the amethyst eyes glowing with a deep discomfort. A cutting voice suddenly sliced through to the women, causing Symphony to growl before she returned to her feet. Stella sauntered up to both women, icy blue eyes alight with a sadistic humor.

"Good morning, ladies. Did you enjoy yourselves last night?"

Symphony moved into the cellist's space, her teal eyes glowing with an unbridled fury.

"Back the fuck off, Artois. I'm not in the mood for your shit this early in the morning."

Scowling at the violinist, she casually pushed her aside and focused her sights on Octavia.

"What about you, Melody? You and your girlfriend have a--"

"Vinyl Scratch is not my girlfriend. Nor will she ever be."

Snorting, Artois closed the distance between them to sneer spitefully down at the principal cellist.

"Oh, come off it now. I saw the two of you together. Did you guys leave the hall and head back to her place for some incredible--"

Hauling to her feet, Octavia was quickly toe to toe with the stingy redhead.

"I did not sleep with Vinyl. She was the best of a bad situation. I'm sure you know what situation, Artois, considering you plucked Concerto right out from under me. And I wonder why... Was it because you put out on a first date?"

Snarling at the cellist, Artois snapped at the raven-haired player.

"Do you really want to play these games, Octavia? You know as well as I do that you never stood a snowball's chance in Hell with Concerto. You do, however, have all the chances in the world with Vinyl. She's been known to charm the pants off pretty girls like you."

Symphony moved forward, her teal eyes flashing dangerously. Both cellists, however, leveled her with a tumultuous gaze, causing her to remain still, though she gritted her teeth at the display. A group of their fellow players seemed to gather around the women, a palpable wonder growing in the room. Octavia painfully clenched her teeth, her normally placid eyes almost black with anger.

"Get it through your thick skull that nothing is going on with Vinyl and I. She's merely an acquaintance that I had lying around to fill a void-- that is all. You think I have time in my life for someone so obviously uncultured? She was fun for a while, a certain breath of fresh air that I needed to enhance my own playing abilities. Nothing more."

Symphony suddenly frowned at the words, a deep pang echoing through her chest. She passed her focus back and forth between the two women, suddenly at a loss for words. Stella smirked at the cellist before laughing merrily.

"Nobody will judge you for sleeping with that dyke, Octavia. Admit it... You'd throw your career away for a good roll in the hay with that DJ."

Inching closer to the cellist, Octavia glared down at her, face set as she spoke dangerously low.

"The only thing I'd throw away for Vinyl Scratch is my patience. I don't have time in my life for a clingy DJ with mommy issues."

Stella searched the serious face of the cellist before smiling briefly. She shook her head the raven-haired woman before conceding.

"Okay, Melody."

Turning her head, Stella grinned wickedly at the shocked violinist as she stood before flowing passed Octavia and taking her seat. Symphony passed her eyes to Octavia, teal eyes burning with tears she desperately tried to control. Octavia held her gaze for a moment, the mulberry eyes swirling with untethered emotion. Swallowing her own tears, Octavia straightened and gently cleared her throat, lashes fluttering.

"I believe you should return to your section, Symphony. Noteworthy will be here shortly for us to begin."

Shaking her head at the cellist, Symphony turned to walk back to her section; Octavia collapsed in her own chair, eyes squeezing shut against the painful echo in her head. Stella smirked maliciously, blue eyes dancing with demonic glee.
Noteworthy entered the room just a few minutes passed the painful exchange, his face glowing with an innate happiness.

Approaching the stand, he smiled up at his many players.

"Did everyone enjoy the event last night?"

A slew of voices answered all at once, causing him to laugh gleefully. Concerto slipped in behind him before moving to take his place on stage. He cleared his throat and prepped the orchestra for a few moments before nodding his head to the director. Noteworthy grinned and rolled up his sleeves before raising his arms.

The practice continued smoothly, the many instruments melting together into one, perfect piece, the music bouncing through the room with flawless grace. Noteworthy eventually stepped down and wrapped up the practice, his voice flowing gracefully over the musicians.

"Wonderful performance, everyone. Don't forget, we leave here in a week's time, I hope you're all ready for this. Until then, I'll be seeing everybody Wednesday morning for a final practice before we hit the road. Enjoy the rest of your days, everyone."

The ample theatre was suddenly alight with the sounds of many voices talking and many chairs being moved at once. The sounds of cases being opened and closed echoed around the massive hall, drawing a familiar nostalgia to the large group of musicians. People gathered together with their respective friends as everyone filed out to leave. Octavia packed up her own instrument and made a quick bolt for the door. Symphony was just behind, her smaller instrument allowing the grace of a faster exit. Catching the cellist outside, Symphony grabbed the crook of her elbow and spun her to face forward.

"What the hell was that in there?"

"Symphony, I can explain--"

"Explain the fact you just demeaned your entire relationship--"

"Friendship."

"--friendship with Vinyl to placate Stella Artois? Stella! The same woman that gives you flack for wearing the wrong shade of gray?"

"I didn't placate, I merely just--"

"Lied! You downright lied. Did something happen last night? Are you and Vinyl okay? Talk to me, Octavia, because I'm beyond confused right now."

Octavia sighed and placed the bottom of her cello case on the ground before casually leaning against it. She turned tormented eyes to the violinist before offering a small smile to the troubled strings player.

"I don't want to be conceived as something I'm not, Symphony. I'm not in a relationship with Vinyl, I didn't sleep with Vinyl... And it bothers me when someone like her gets the wrong idea."

"What the hell does it matter what Stella thinks? I can't even believe you said half of that about Vinyl... Do you have any idea how much that would hurt her if she found out? I don't mind you saying you're not friggin' dating her, but you made it sound like you used Vinyl for inspiration and that you're not actually friends."

"Symphony..."

The violinist shook her head, the incessant pulse of emotion still throbbing in her head. Her teal eyes focused sadly on the cellist, beyond proper thought.

"Vinyl cares about you. Do you really think she's an acquaintance? Somebody to fill a void? Mommy issues? Really??"

"That was a bit... No, I don't. She's... Well, she's Vinyl."

"What the hell does that mean?"

Octavia pressed her fingers to the bridge of her nose, feeling the onsets of a migraine swirling in the recesses of her brain. She smiled at the violinist and casually moved to clasp one of her hands tightly in her grasp.

"Vinyl and I are fine. I just... I didn't want Stella thinking she can get to me because of Vinyl. That's all. We're still friends, Symphony."

Eyeing her warily, Symphony exhaled deeply and squeezed the cellist's hand before letting go. Taking a step back, Symphony hailed a cab and cast a sad glance toward her companion.

"I really hope you mean that, Octavia. Because it'd be cruel of you not to. I'm heading there now, would you like to come with me? Lyra's there."

Quickly shaking her head, she flashed an uneasy smile to the violinist.

"I would, but I've got something to do with my mother. I'm sorry."

Pausing beside the cab that pulled up, Symphony looked hard at the cellist.

"Why were you so upset this morning?"

"I'd gotten some rather trying news from my mother. She stopped by briefly while you slept."

"What news?"

"It's personal. I'll meet up with you later?"

Smiling sadly, she half-shrugged.

"See you later, then."

Octavia watched the violinist slide into the backseat of the cab before it pulled into traffic. The cellist sighed deeply as she waited patiently, eyes finally landing on the black limo as it slid up to the curb. Instantly recognizing her father's driver, she forced a smile to the older man as he skillfully picked up the cello and stowed it in the trunk. Opening the door for the musician, the gray-haired man smiled and bowed softly to the woman. Flashing an uneasy grin, she dutifully slid into the backseat and waited as the long vehicle began its journey.

Symphony crashed through the door, muttering angrily under her breath. She turned an irritated look to the two women that sat staring at her, amused smirks on both their faces. Grumbling, Symphony breezed past the two players before opening the fridge. Pouring a small glass of water, she quickly downed it and exhaled before pinning the jockey with a poignant stare.

"Scratch, did something happen last night?"

"...happen? Happen how?"

"With you and Octavia."

Shaking her head, she stood and approached the skittish violinist.

"No. Why? Did she say something happened?"

"No. She adamantly denied anything happening. But she was behaving really frickin' strangely at practice. I just didn't know if you guys had words or something."

Frowning at the confession, Vinyl gently denied.

"No, nothing. We were at the hall, then you guys were at the club, and I sent the two of you back to Octavia's. That was it. You were with us both last night... Did she seem off to you?"

Symphony fervently denied the question, the incensed motion causing Lyra to stand and join the other two women.

"Did she say something bad about Vinyl?"

There was a long pause before Symphony flashed a small smile, gently dispelling the tension hanging between them with a short shake of the head.

"Of course not. She had a blast last night. Maybe it was something her mother told her. Apparently, she'd gotten stirring news this morning and didn't tell me about that either."

Lyra bobbed her head in understanding, golden eyes flicking over to focus on the frowning jockey, free hand moving up to gently shake the DJ's arm. Grinning reflexively, she turned her head toward Symphony, half-catching a fleeting look as it left the violinist's face just as quickly as it had come. Lyra clapped her hands and shook both women, attempting to lighten the mood.

"We should totally go get some food. Peg's sound good? Awesome. I'll go call a cab."

Lyra bent to pick up her bag before swinging it over her shoulder and quickly left the apartment. Symphony smiled up at Vinyl before skirting around the DJ, only to be stopped by a hand on her upper arm. Sighing, she turned toward the other woman, eyes softening at the sadness currently dominating the jockey's face.

"Symph..."

Patting the hand that held her, Symphony creased her eyebrows before offering a sad grin to the expectant DJ.

"It's nothing, V. Don't worry."

Unconvinced, she released the violinist and watched as she too left the apartment. Sliding her phone in her pocket, Vinyl stooped to pick up her glasses for the first time this morning before placing them over her eyes with practiced precision. She bit her lip as she gathered her keys before leaving, locking the door before as she started after the two players.

Octavia walked uneasily down the long, marbled hallway, the shiny, black tiles causing her unbalanced stress. She straightened the dark blouse that she wore, beyond nervous at being in the building. The black heels she wore echoed faintly as she walked, her raven hair shimmering beautifully in the lights as she continued down the strip. She focused on the heavy door at the end of the hall, an unsettled flutter stirring in her gut. Finally reaching the door, she exhaled before turning the knob and stepped inside.

A woman greeted her instantly, bright silver eyes sparkling at seeing the young woman.

"Hello, Octavia. Have a seat, your dad will be with you in a minute."

Nodding quickly, she slid into one of the plush seats against the wall of the massive reception area. A large window sat directly in front of her, the view of the city remarkable. She focused hard out the massive window, eyes staring intently at the vision of the castle in the distance. Hearing a door open, Octavia passed her eyes to the suited man that filed out of her father's office, followed by the CEO himself. Both men shared a laugh as the visitor left quietly, leaving Octavia to sit shyly against the wall. Viktor Melody moved to stand before his daughter, violet eyes shining. Kneeling, he hooked his forefinger under her chin and lifted her face upward.

Their eyes met and the tears Octavia had been fighting all day suddenly spilled forward. The tall man clicked his tongue as he pulled the cellist to her feet and tucked her carefully in his arms. Lifting a hand to soothingly run down the silky black hair, he turned his attention to the woman behind the desk. Nodding in understanding, she smiled and ushered them away. Tilting his head down, he pulled the cellist away to absently wipe at her tears.

"Come on, darling, into my office."

Sniffling, she walked the short way into the massive office and collapsed on the couch lining the far wall. She wiped angrily at her tears, hands moving to tug up her purse. Already prepared, Viktor offered the distressed player the tissues before taking a seat beside his daughter. Tears eventually stopping, violet met violet, the cellist hiccupping as the sobs stopped.

"I'm so sorry, daddy."

Shaking his head, he scooped her forward to pull her against his side. Placing a small kiss to the top of her head, he smiled soothingly.

"There's nothing to be sorry for, angel."

"That story... I-I didn't even--"

"Nonsense. I'm having the magazine shut down for libel and invasion of privacy."

"Daddy, you can't. It was an event, there was press everywhere."

Grumbling, he nodded. The tall man moved his eyes back to Octavia, a glowing understand spilling forth from the violet orbs.

"Octavia, it doesn't matter what the article said. I stopped the running of that story because who you are in private is your own business. Your personal life is nobody's concern but yours. Life changes, and people with it. It doesn't matter to me who you settle down with, as long as you're happy. Understand?"

Her tears renewed in earnest, though she ignored them.

"Daddy, I'm not dating Vinyl."

He smiled at her, a small laugh escaping him.

"It wouldn't matter if you were, angel. She's a good kid."

Octavia frowned, turning her eyes toward the man in confusion.

"Mother seems to think she's a demon. She showed me things..."

"Your mother thinks everybody's a demon, even me."

"Do you know Vinyl, daddy?"

The man smiled and stood to approach his desk, fingers digging through a drawer for a well-hidden candy bar. Octavia laughed joyously at her father, beyond touched at his thoughtfulness as he reclaimed his seat, hand stretching to offer half the treat to his daughter. Happily accepting, she took a bite of the confection and sighed deeply. Turning back toward the young woman, he grinned cryptically.

"I've never formally met her, but I've seen her floating around from time to time. I'm good friends with her father."

Surprised, Octavia lifted her eyebrows before shaking her head in wonder.

"I didn't know that."

Snickering, the CEO leaned back against the couch and grinned mischievously at the cellist.

"I'm just full of surprises."

"Mother told me you were furious with me..."

The brunette shook his head before patting the musician's knee.

"I wasn't mad at you, angel. I was angry at the sleaze who wanted to run personal things about my little girl."

"...promise?"

Her voice broke, the tears again returning with vigor. He chuckled before wrapping her up in his arms once again.

"I promise, angel."

Stella stepped briskly down the street, her high heels clicking loudly as she walked down the smooth pavement. Her blue eyes landed thoughtfully on the cafe as she neared, her lips twisting into an unnerving grin. Seeing the two she had plans to meet, she approached the table and gracefully took her seat. Sapphire smiled at the cellist, the singer's golden eyes twinkling with mischief. Both of the musical girls turned expectant eyes to the dark woman that sat with them, her molten red-gold eyes glowing in the sunlight. Placing down her teacup, Virtuosa smiled at the two women.

"Splendid job, ladies."

Author's Notes:

Sorry, this is a bit late. I started five hours behind schedule. Anyway, this is a necessary evil, this chapter... Parts of it I like, parts of it not so much. Things need to happen, though. As always, forgive the space issues and errors. I'll get there. Happy Saturday (night)!