V & V - Rageous Rageon Rise

Not Closed Enough

Veneer POV:

Kid Ritz: "Got everything?"

I look around the bedroom and nod before hurrying after him. He takes Jewels and her carrier for me as I grab Jewels from her tree. I wave bye to Floyd before we go downstairs.

I couldn't be more excited to have our own studio! Acquiring our show's rights, names, and space has been a long process, but now that we finally have it, I feel ready!

We hurry to the valet and ring up Ritz's car. He gets the carrier in the back; then we're off to the studio. As we drive, Ritz turns up the music. I move Jewels' little hands in time to the music, making Ritz laugh.

Jewels lets me dance with her until we arrive at our new studio. On the outside of the building, a sleek V&R sign in green and purple letters shows us it's our studio. Ritz parks and smiles at me before getting out.

We get Jewels' carrier, then hold hands as we walk to our doors.

I smile at Kid Ritz, and he smiles back.

We open the doors together and walk through to a darkly lit room. We walk in a little further until we see the set in all of its glittering glory.

I hold Jewels close and stifle tears as Ritz smiles. He sets the carrier down, then pulls Jewels, and me close for a hug. I can't help but cry, feeling incredibly emotional over seeing what's finally ours. 

Kid Ritz: "Don't cry, cariño."

Ven: "I'm sorry! I... I..."

I cry laugh into my shirt, grateful as Ritz wipes my tears for me.

Ven: "Can we walk over?"

He nods and walks with me to the kitchen set. I gently let Jewels onto the counter and watch with a smile as she hops curiously across.

I turn to Ritz and feel even more tears form. He opens his arms and pulls me close for a tight hug.

Ven: "I'm sorry... for crying."

Kid Ritz: "Don't be sorry. I... was just worried you were upset."

Ven: "I'm not upset at all! I am so overwhelmed with happiness, Kid Ritz!"

I pull back and look at him, my eyes searching his.

Ven: "I know I don't need to remind you of this, but."

My voice weakens as I think back to how I was.

Ven: "I truly thought my life was going to end once I got so addicted. I didn't see a way out, I didn't see a future for myself, and I didn't see myself getting to... be with you. I am so grateful we've made it this far."

I choke out the last of my words, Kid Ritz pulling me close and holding my head gently with his hand as I cry.

I hear him stifle a cry and pull back to see him crying as well.

Kid Ritz: "I never wanted to tell you just how worried I was for you. I didn't want to overwhelm or worry you more, but I really was scared to death. I felt like I was failing you as not only your best friend but also your boyfriend. I am so, SO incredibly proud and relieved you are here with me."

He tries to stop crying as I wipe his tears. We hold each other as we calm down, the both of us taking a minute or two to collect ourselves.

Ven: "I love you."

Kid Ritz: "I love you, Veneer."

He takes my hand and kisses the back of it, making me smile as he rubs his thumb over my knuckles. We continue to hold hands as we look around the studio. After we take a mini tour, Carlos and Midori arrive.