V & V - Rageous Road to Fame

Difficult Discussions

Gentle movement beneath me wakes me up.

Kid Ritz shifts in his sleep, making me remember everything that happened. I look him over; he seems so peaceful. The darkness to his eyes from not sleeping adds a look to him that... I really like, albeit I shouldn't, given the circumstances.

I look at his hands, seeing the patterned bruises. I've never seen bruised knuckles up close; it's interesting.

I close my eyes to enjoy the calm. Everything feels... like it's ok. This is what I want, to be held by Kid Ritz. It's so serene... and tranquil.

Kid Ritz stirs some more, waking up.

Kid Ritz: "Hi."

Ven: "Hi."

Kid Ritz's morning voice is so low... very dreamy.

Ven: "How did you sleep? Are your hands hurting badly?"

Kid Ritz: "I slept the best I have in days. I have a little cuddle bug to thank for that."

I blush, enjoying the cute name.

Kid Ritz: "My knuckles hurt, but the pain has started to go away. I think by Saturday, they may just be tender."

Ven: "I forgot we had the show."

Kid Ritz: "I get to see you be the best of the best. Mount Rageous loves you and Velvet."

I stay quiet, looking away.

Kid Ritz: "Hey... it's going to be ok. We're going to get this finished; we won't let them win."

I nod, avoiding eye contact so I don't cry. Kid Ritz gingerly grabs his phone before laying back down next to me. He pulls me close the best he can with his hurt hands. I kiss him, hearing the soft click of the camera. 

I pull away, my heart beating quickly.

Ven: "You're a great kisser."

Kid Ritz: "I think it's all you."

I blush as I hear rustling from the corner; Jewels is awake. She looks sleepy, her big eyes blinking while she yawns.

I get up and go to open her cage. She jumps on my leg and holds on excitedly. I put her into my arms before tickling her belly. Her little Oo warms my heart; she's perfect.

We walk over to Kid Ritz, where she lightly jumps on him. She plays with his hair and hoodie string, her tail tickling his face. As Jewels plays, she looks up towards the bathroom.

Her body stiffens, her eyes wide. As I look to see what she sees, I jump. Two blue eyes from the crack of the door peer out.

Ven: "Hold Jewels."

I walk slowly towards the bathroom, my heart beating. I stare the eyes down, feeling a sense of dread as I reach the door. I bend to be at eye level and shove the door... to see no one there.

I turn on all of the lights, yet he's gone. Kid Ritz gets out of bed, bringing over Jewels.

Kid Ritz: "I didn't see him. I'm assuming you did?"

Ven: "Yeah... I did."

My heart beats fast; I need to talk to Velvet.

I turn around, looking Kid Ritz deep into his eyes.

Ven: "I... I'm going to talk to Velvet. Do you... do you mind waiting here with Jewels. I'm expecting the conversation not to go well."

Kid Ritz: "Totally. It's hard to do the right thing, but you'll feel better if you open up."