V & V - Rageous Rageon Redemption.

Hot Tub

Fred POV:

Rollie has a massive chef's pantry, which, much to our delight, is filled with non-perishables. Most of what we need, however, is fruit. We'll have to get creative for Jewels, but I'm sure we can figure something out. Rollie and I leave the pantry feeling a lot better. Finally, some stress is off my shoulders.

Rollie: "Are you still up for the hot tub?"

Fred: "Yes, if you're willing."

Rollie: "I am. If things worsen, I am worried the water or electricity will be shut off in the city, so I want to take advantage of the resources we have now. I'll go ask Kid Ritz if he wants to join us."

He leaves me in the kitchen, giving me a moment alone. I hurry to my bedroom and hide my last bottle and my yo-yos in the closet. I need to save it for an emergency; an emotional crutch. I sigh, staring at the brown glass as Rollie knocks on my door. I close the closet quickly before telling him he can come in.

Rollie: "Kid Ritz is down, so that's fun. You can borrow from these suits, and I'll turn on the water. I know it's not technically legal, per se, for us to drink, but I think we can make an exception. Only if you're up for it, you can have something, but I know I need a glass."

Fred: "I'd love a drink, and I appreciate the suit."

Rollie: "Anytime. Come out to the conversation pit when you're ready, okay?"

He gives me a small smile before closing the door quietly. Just that small interaction gave me butterflies. I get changed and relax as I turn on the TV for background noise. I go to the floor-length window before peering out into the city.

The sky is dark and red, swirling clouds hanging low overhead. I can only imagine Dom has something to do with the weather, but man, is it negative energy just looking at the city? I look a little longer before deciding to head to the conversation pit. I leave the bedroom and find Kid Ritz exiting his room.

Kid Ritz: "Like the shorts."

Fred: "I could say the same to you."

We smirk at each other as we enter the conversation pit to a fire on in the fireplace. Rollie is in the kitchen, presumably getting drinks, as the lights on out back illuminate a beautiful hot tub.

Rollie: "You two can get in; I'll be right there."

He calls to us, giving me and Kid Ritz and me the go ahead to head outside. As we walk to the hot tub, I notice the chilly air despite the look of the sky. To get warm, we climb into the hot water, and I smile as the bubbles of the jets tickle my skin.

We sink into the hot water... and are quiet for a bit until Kid Ritz speaks up.

Kid Ritz: "Veneer would love this."

I open my eyes, seeing his still closed. Poor dude; his boyfriend is never off his mind, is he. I can't blame him; if Rol- my boyfriend, were missing in such a dangerous time, I'd be constantly worried. Hell, who am I kidding; I'm always worried about... you know who, now. Oh, but I should say something.

Fred: "We're going to find him, okay? Starting tomorrow, Rollie and I will go on a supply run and keep an eye out for the twins. You and I will go out if we don't find them after that, alright?"

Kid Ritz meets my eyes with a contemplative look before nodding.

Kid Ritz: "Okay. Thank you."

I hope, for his sake, that we will locate his boyfriend. Kid Ritz does not deserve the heartbreak of losing Veneer.

Kid Ritz POV: