Home Artists Posts Import Register

Content

Reminder that there won't be a new chapter next week because I'm taking a short pause before embarking on the next story!  I feel like I'm going to need to take a deep breath before launching into a 48 chapter story...

***

When Blake embarked upon a career as an author, she expected to spend the majority of her time at home, in her most comfortable clothes, typing away at the computer while sipping a cup of tea.  Every once in a while she would venture out into the world for signings or meetings with her publisher, but those events would concentrate around release dates for her novels.  Only then would she have to dig deep into her closet for a decent outfit.

That vision of the future disappeared the moment she met Yang in that bathroom stall and agreed to go on a date.  One date turned into two.  Two dates turned into three.  Three dates turned into spending nearly all their time together, then living together, and - in ironic contrast to Blake’s envisioned future - receiving countless invitations to the most exclusive events Vale had to offer.

An entire wall of her closet was devoted to dresses, which she reused when possible but more often than not ended up with new attire matching the occasion.  And matching Yang, who looked so ravishing in her sleek black dress that Blake kept daydreaming about peeling it off of her.

“What do you think?”  Yang held up two pairs of black heels - both covered in straps and endlessly sexy.  “Tall or extra tall?”

“Tall,” Blake replied, gently resting her hand on Yang’s abdomen and spreading her fingers wide to savor the smooth fabric.  “You’re still recovering.  The last thing we need is you hurting yourself trying to wear skyscrapers on your feet.”

“I guess you’re right…”  Yang considered the extra tall heels for another second before slipping on the slightly shorter pair.  Bending over didn’t cause even a flinch of pain anymore - a tremendous relief but also a vaguely disappointing milestone.  Blake had enjoyed taking care of Yang during the recovery process, especially when it came to dressing…and bathing…even eating had become a more hands-on experience.

As if Yang just intercepted Blake’s thoughts, she walked over and set her hands on Blake’s waist.  “You look incredible,” she said before pressing kisses to Blake’s cheek, her fingers lightly grasping Blake’s sides.  The instant those kisses began trailing lower, Blake’s blood rushed to her cheeks and her breathing stalled in anticipation.  Unfortunately, only one soft kiss landed on her neck before Yang pulled away and asked, “Ready to go?”

Blake sighed at the fire that would burn all night before being satisfied but glanced at her reflection in the closet mirror.  With Yang’s input, she had chosen a strapless lilac dress that nearly matched the color of Yang’s eyes.  Her gold earrings and necklace reminded her of Yang’s long, golden hair, and black heels finished off the ensemble.

“You don’t have to go, you know,” Yang added, resting her chin on Blake’s shoulder and meeting her gaze in the mirror.  “I’ll take one for the team.”

“But she’s our friend, and we should support her like she does for us.”  That response made all the sense in the world to Blake.  When Yang smiled adoringly at her, however, she tilted her head and asked, “What?”

“You just called her ‘our’ friend.”

“Oh.  Well, isn’t she?”

“She is!”  Yang kissed Blake’s cheek before pulling away with that same adoring smile.  “I just love it when you say things like that.  It makes me feel like...all of this is ours.”  When Yang motioned to the walls of their closet, Blake scooted closer.

“Well...isn’t it?”

“Do you want it to be?”

The way Yang asked the question, and the eager way she waited for an answer, was the only reason Blake paused.  Yang had been making suggestions like this more often recently, and Blake had no idea how to make it clearer that yes, she wanted anything and everything of theirs to be together forever.

“Of course I do,” she replied while tucking a strand of Yang’s golden hair behind her ear.  “I can’t imagine my life without you.”

“Which means you can’t imagine sitting at home while I’m forced to socialize all night, right?”  Yang’s eyes sparkled as she waited for Blake’s response - a playful sigh that made her laugh and tug Blake into the living room.  “It won’t be that bad - promise,” she added, grabbing a black handbag from the table before waiting for Blake to do the same.  “And if it is, I’ll owe you so much.”

“I like the sound of that…” Blake mused while checking the contents of her bag.  After confirming that she had everything, she accepted Yang’s hand as they left the apartment.  The door closed softly on that alternate reality she’d imagined for herself - the one where she stayed in and wrote about the heart-pounding romance she’d been blessed with in real life.

She wouldn't get any writing done tonight - something her publisher might nag her about later - but she was bound to have a great time as long as Yang was involved.  Besides, after spending the last few weeks fretting every time Yang moved a muscle, going out might be a nice change of pace.  And that dress certainly helped erase Blake’s hesitation.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better,” she said, kissing Yang’s cheek as the elevator ferried them downstairs.

“Healed pretty quick, right?  Now I need to get back into shape...I feel so sluggish and bleh.”

The comment invited Blake to let her gaze rove over Yang’s body, revealed oh-so-deliciously by the tight dress.  She understood that Yang might feel sluggish after several weeks without her usual workouts, but she certainly didn’t look any less slim and fit than on the day they met.

“I’m more than willing to help you exercise...” Blake offered as the elevator released them into the lobby, earning another laugh as they headed outside.

“Tonight then?”  Yang waited for Blake’s willing nod before adding, “Good.  Because I’m taking you out of that dress the second we get home.”

Yang’s comment ended just before they reached the exit, leaving the doorman completely unaware of the reason Blake’s cheeks reddened and the fire in her stomach flared.

A limousine waited for them outside - another stark reminder of just how different her life had become - and the chauffeur politely opened the door for them.  “Fancy,” she commented as they settled into the backseat and the vehicle pulled away from the curb.  Yang’s arm wrapped around her shoulders, silently inviting her to lean into Yang’s warm side.

“Pyrrha said there’ll be photographers so figured it’d be best to go all out.”

“Did she ever say what charity it’s for?” Blake asked, struggling to focus on anything but the way Yang’s fingers felt as they grazed over her bare shoulder.  Uncertain about how long or socially demanding the night would be, she didn’t want to get too riled up before even setting foot in the building.  Yang, on the other hand, seemed blissfully unaware of the effect she was having.

“Shoot.  I forgot to ask.”  Yang’s fingers briefly froze before resuming their slight motions.  “I only know it’s a silent auction, and there will be a ton of models…so no way there’s food.”

Imagining another fancy event with all the alcohol in the world but nothing to eat, Blake tilted her head back and sighed.

“Was that regret I just heard?” Yang asked, rustling her nose in Blake’s hair before gently kissing Blake’s ear.  “Don’t worry.  If you get hungry, I’ll have pizzas delivered right to the hotel.”

“I’m sure that won’t cause a stir…”

“I’d still do it.  Have to make sure my girl’s taken care of!”  Blake’s heart swelled at the term of endearment and overflowed with happiness when Yang kissed her cheek.  “Thanks for coming with me though.  I know you don’t exactly love these things…”

“They aren’t so bad.”  Blake shook her head but backpedaled when Yang arched one flawless brow at her.  “Ok, they aren’t my favorite things in the world, but…it’s nice sometimes.  Getting all dressed up and going out with you.  It helps that Pyrrha will be there.”

“Everything’s better when Pyrrha’s around,” Yang agreed with a happy chuckle.  “But still.  I promise I’ll make it up to you later.”

“Well, I suppose it is a bit out of my norm…” she hedged, though both of them ended up laughing at the obvious change of heart.  “I honestly don’t mind,” she added.  “But I’ll still accept the reward.”

“A reward for you and me both,” Yang mused, her gaze dropping to Blake’s lips before slowly roving over the rest of Blake’s body.  Blake’s skin tingled at the hungry gleam in Yang’s eyes, suddenly wishing that she’d dragged her feet when getting dressed so that they could have taken care of this itch prior to leaving the apartment.

“Maybe we should start getting ready an hour or two earlier,” she suggested.  Yang’s eyes darted back to hers, and laughter filled the back of the limousine moments later.

Fortunately for Blake’s waning self-control, Yang leaned against the seat and tenderly held Blake’s hand in her own.  She made small talk for the rest of the drive - pointing out various landmarks that caught her attention, talking about her work or asking about Blake’s.  The casual conversation did its job in quelling Blake’s rampant desires and distracting her from the evening to come.

The extravagant hotel located in one of Vale’s wealthiest neighborhoods brought her back to reality.  As did the line of limousines waiting to drop off their important guests at the front doors.  And the men and women with large cameras crowded around the entrance, bright lights flashing as every vehicle temporarily stopped in front of them.

As their turn to disembark neared, Blake took a calming breath and steeled herself for what came next.

“It’ll be over before you know it,” Yang assured her as the limousine stopped in front of the expectant crowd.  Their chauffeur left the driver’s seat and walked around to open the door, and Yang kissed Blake’s cheek before sliding out first.  Rapid shutter clicks and blinding flashes instantly followed, and renewed when Blake left the comfort of the limousine behind.

Yang’s hand immediately found hers, providing steady reassurance as they made their way to the door.  Yang smiled and waved to several of the photographers along the way - ones she either recognized from previous events or just pretended to know for appearance’s sake.  Blake had learned that it was easiest to look in the same direction Yang did, though making eye contact always proved impossible when everyone hid behind their cameras.

Yang was right though - the moment rarely lasted long.  Attention shifted away the instant the next limousine stopped at the top of the drive, and anticipation mounted as the crowd waited for whoever would arrive next.

Yang, meanwhile, nodded to the young man holding the door open for them.  The lobby offered some sense of normalcy compared to the frenzied scene outside, though the opulent interior far exceeded anything Blake was accustomed to.  Crystal chandeliers, gleaming marble floors, sharply dressed employees, gold accents everywhere - no expense had been spared in catering to the ultra-rich.

They hardly made it five steps into the hotel before a young man in a clean black blazer approached them.

“Miss Xiao Long,” he greeted Yang before turning to Blake.  “Miss Belladonna.  The gathering is right down that hall, on the left.”  He held one hand to his left and bowed his head as they moved that way.

“Thank you,” Yang replied, earning another slight bow before he went to direct the next guests to the right location.  “Ok, I know they only want our money,” Yang added as they crossed the lobby.  “But that was a nice touch.”

Blake glanced over her shoulder, finding the young man consulting a sheet of paper at the concierge desk during his brief wait, before focusing on the path ahead.  A large sign stood outside one of the ballroom entrances announcing the night’s event for the benefit of one of Vale’s largest charities.

“The children’s hospital!” Yang remarked upon reading the sign.  “I thought it had something to do with kids.”

“And you love kids,” Blake pointed out.

“I do…don’t you?”

Yang glanced at Blake out of the corner of her eye, so Blake squeezed her hand and said, “I do.”

“Then I think you mean ‘we’ love kids,” Yang corrected with a grin.  Blake’s heart fluttered at the response, but she had little time to dwell on it before Yang guided them into the ballroom hosting the night’s event.

Walking into the room was like walking into another world - a world filled with glamour, extravagantly dressed people, and an overwhelming aura of money, fame, or power.  Multiple chandeliers hung from the arching ceiling.  Elegant golden sconces dotted the perimeter.  A full bar, complete with an entire wall of expensive alcohol bottles behind it, entertained a crowd of guests.  Large, round tables took up the majority of the room, each covered in a pristine white tablecloth, a centerpiece of fresh flowers, and surrounded by wooden chairs.

Whereas Blake might prefer to observe such a marvelous environment from behind a shroud of anonymity, attention quickly shifted her way.  Yang’s way, specifically, though Blake earned her fair share of cursory glances as well.

It was easy to forget that outside of their apartment, Yang was Yang Xiao Long.  The movie star.  The world’s sexiest adventurer.  The gorgeous actress instantly recognizable for her radiant golden hair, vibrant lilac eyes, and effortless smile.

Even if The Dust Chronicles wasn’t one of the more popular series of their time, and even if Yang wasn’t the lead actress, she would draw gaze through natural beauty alone.  But she was Yang Xiao Long.  And Yang was a popular guest.

“Wonder where Pyrrha is…” Yang mused, willfully oblivious to the stares directed her way.  Blake scanned the large ballroom in search of eye-catching red hair but found nothing but well-dressed, beautiful strangers.

Finding Pyrrha would have to wait, however, as one of the other guests separated from her group of companions and made her way over.  Based on her tall, willowy form, slender limbs, and impeccable fashion sense, she had to be one of the models that Yang mentioned.

“Excuse me,” she began, her soft accent suggesting an upbringing outside of Vale.  “I’m Melissa.”  She extended a hand, which Yang politely shook, before smiling.  “It’s such a pleasure to meet you.  Pyrrha said you might be here, but I didn’t quite believe her.”

“You know Pyrrha?” Yang asked, beaming at the mere mention of Pyrrha’s name.

“Of course.”  Melissa nodded and another perfect smile wasn’t far behind.  “We’ve worked together on several shoots.”  Blake noticed that Melissa left out whether she and Pyrrha were friends or even on good terms - she reached out and trailed her fingers across Yang’s dress instead.  “This is an incredible fit on you,” she purred, but Blake hardly had time to narrow her eyes before Yang took a step back and chuckled.

“After the last few weeks, I’m just happy it fits at all.”

“Oh, that’s right.  You got hurt, didn’t you?  I remember reading something about that…”

“Accident on set.  Broken ribs and some serious bruises.”  Yang waved off the injuries and planted a kiss on Blake’s cheek.  “Thankfully, I have this gorgeous woman to nurse me back to health.”

This was the moment Blake enjoyed a little too much.  The moment when she transformed from ‘the girl with Yang’ to ‘the girl with Yang.’  The first label earned passing glances.  The second earned a unique blend of surprise, judgment, and jealousy.

“Blake,” she introduced herself when Melissa let the thread of conversation dangle.  Blake extended her hand, which Melissa loosely shook while flashing a less-blinding smile.

“Nice to meet you,” Melissa replied cordially before her gaze returned to Yang.  “And that is fortunate.  Though I’m sure you’d have no shortage of help if you needed it.”

“Asking my sister to help me change would be a little awkward though,” Yang replied with a laugh.  Blake smiled when Yang glanced at her but then closely watched Melissa’s reaction.  First, envy.  Finally, a muted acceptance that this interaction wouldn't end the way she’d imagined.

“That’s true…” she mused before flashing her most brilliant smile yet.  “Anyway, I just wanted to introduce myself.  We should grab lunch sometime.”

“Sure!  We’ll have to see when Pyrrha’s free so we can set something up.”

Again, that wasn’t the response Melissa expected or wanted, but she still smiled and said, “Absolutely.”  She then set both hands on Yang’s shoulders and planted air kisses on Yang’s cheeks before walking away with a coy wave.

Blake glanced after her before following Yang further into the ballroom.  The overly familiar greetings and departures should probably bother her, but she knew that they meant nothing to Yang.  If anything, Yang accepted them only to remain polite.  And Yang had apparently already forgotten the entire interaction.

“Where the heck is Pyrrha?” she repeated, this time looking for the red-haired beauty near the periphery of the room, which featured table after table of items up for auction.  Blake searched behind them, hoping maybe they missed Pyrrha in the crowds near the entrance, but narrowed her eyes when she sensed an excited stir in the air.  Moments later, she found the source and experienced her own surge of disbelief.

“Yang,” she said, gently nudging Yang’s side before nodding toward the door.  “Look who’s here.”

Yang turned around and sucked in a breath when she saw Weiss, who was impossible to miss in her dazzling silver dress, silver heels, and white hair.  Red earrings and a blood-red pendant necklace finished off the stunning look…while also perfectly matching the red dress worn by the gorgeous brunette accompanying her.

“Oh my god,” Yang gasped.  “Is that Ruby??”

Ruby tiptoed along in her red heels, but she still struck a remarkable contrast in her red gown.  A diamond necklace rested on her chest, sparkling in the light of the chandeliers in the same manner as the diamond earrings dangling from her ears.  Together, she and Weiss could have out-dressed any of Vale’s most gorgeous power couples.

The mirage faded when Ruby saw Yang and broke into a giant smile.  She waved - a big, arching wave that nearly knocked the glass out of the hand of the man standing nearby - before bounding over, nearly tripping over her feet but managing to steady herself in the nick of time.

“Yang, look at me!” she said upon careening to a stop in front of them.

“Look at you!” Yang replied, holding her arms out and gawking.  “You look - you’ve transformed!”

“I know, right?”  Ruby spun in a circle and laughed as her dress billowed out around her.  “I’ve never felt so fancy.”

“How did this even happen?  Did you get trapped in a fashion magazine?”

“Weiss helped me!”

Ruby beamed at Weiss, who’d joined them at a far more reserved pace.  As soon as everyone’s attention landed on her, however, she looked caught between wanting to beam right back at Ruby but also disappear under Yang’s overwhelming disbelief.

“I thought it’d be a nice surprise,” she finally replied.  “I’m sorry if I overstepped.”

“Are you kidding me?  This is awesome!  I’ve never seen Ruby so dressed up for anything.”

“It’s fun!”  Ruby twirled in another circle, causing her red dress to billow out around her, and giggled.  Blake smiled at the adorable display before glancing over to see Weiss’ eyes light up at Ruby’s infectious happiness.

“Oh my god.”  All eyes returned to Yang, who shot an incredulous look at Weiss before inspecting Ruby’s dress more closely.  “Is this made by who I think it is?”

“She wouldn't let me know what anything is or how much it cost,” Ruby explained, glancing at Weiss but holding still while Yang checked the tag.  “It’s expensive, isn’t it?”

After reading the tag, Yang chuckled and shook her head.

“Let’s just say…I hope you’re better at keeping dresses alive than your phone.”

“It didn’t cost a penny,” Weiss added.  “All I did was agree to wear one of their dresses to another event, which I would’ve done anyway.”

Weiss offered a reassuring smile and even went as far as to set a hand on Ruby’s arm, but she pulled away when Yang continued swirling around her sister.

“Are these real?”

Yang gently lifted one of the diamonds dangling from Ruby’s ears and turned to Weiss for an answer.  Ruby’s brow rose at the question as she also turned to Weiss, causing Weiss to clasp her hands in front of her and discard her first few responses.

“They’re part of my family’s collection,” she eventually admitted.  Absent from the admission was how expensive the earrings and accompanying necklace were.  Blake wondered if any of them understood the amount of money they were dealing with, but Yang didn’t press.  Instead, she stood back and admired Ruby’s attire one more time.

“So when Weiss invites you somewhere, you get all dolled up.  But when I invite you somewhere, you say you’d rather strap yourself to a rocket without a spacesuit.”

“Yeah, well…she’s more convincing than you.”

“How??”

Yang laughed in disbelief, but Ruby glanced at Weiss before shrugging and fidgeting with her hands.  The response caused Yang to turn to Weiss and say, “Ok, Weiss.  Spill.  How’d you convince Ruby to come with you?”

“I just…asked her?”

“There must’ve been something else.  You bribed her?  Blackmailed her?”

“I would never do that,” Weiss replied, sounding aghast at the mere suggestion.

“Then there’s something you aren’t telling me…”  Yang briefly pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes at Weiss, increasing Weiss’ discomfort, before easing into a smile.  “Don’t worry.  I’ll figure it out eventually.”

Yang’s wink gave away her levity, but Weiss quickly averted her gaze and quietly cleared her throat.  Yang’s brow furrowed at the response, but Blake squeezed her hand before she voiced any confusion out loud.

“However it happened, it’s great that you’re both here,” Blake told them.  “I thought it’d just be Yang and me fending for ourselves.”

“We’re pretty good at fending!”  Yang nudged Blake’s arm before smiling at Ruby and Weiss.  “Always nice to have company though.”

Ruby beamed at the response, but Weiss mumbled, “It’s nice to be here, too,” before glancing at the bar.  “I think I’ll get a drink now,” she added before turning to Ruby.  “Would you like something?”

“Uh, do you think I can just get a water?”

“Of course.”  A smile flickered across Weiss’ lips before she nodded to Blake and Yang and hurried toward the line waiting to place drink orders.  Unfortunately for her, the rapid exit and uncharacteristic lapse in asking what everyone else wanted only piqued Yang’s interest even more.

“I should probably go with her,” Yang mused before looking at Blake.  “Want something?”

“Water would be great, thank you.”

“Your wish is my command.”  Yang grinned and bowed before hurrying after Weiss, leaving Blake to smile at her persistence before turning to Ruby.  Ruby’s remarkable red dress and flawless jewelry stunned her yet again, as it was so far removed from Ruby’s typically ‘cute’ or ‘cozy’ attire that she could probably pass for a different person.

“You really look great, Ruby,” Blake said, but Ruby fiddled with her necklace.

“You don’t think it’s too much?”

“Have you seen where we are?”

Blake motioned to the ballroom, which sparkled in extravagance.  Ruby looked around and finally laughed.

“I guess you’re right.  They love spending money on clothes.”  Ruby glanced around the room one more time before her gaze landed on Weiss, who was now waiting with Yang in line.

Yang looked like she was handling a majority of the talking, probably trying to lighten the mood and also figure out the reason for Weiss’ sudden retreat when the subject of hiding something came up.  Blake had a pretty good idea what Weiss’ reason might be, but this moment provided an opportunity for her to probe Ruby’s feelings on the matter.

“Did you have fun shopping with Weiss?” she asked, and Ruby lit up as if this was her favorite topic in the world.

“Tons!”  Ruby added a hop with the emphatic response - a dangerous feat in high heels.  “She’s so smart and knows exactly what goes with what.  I would’ve been so lost without her.  Plus, she’s just…sweet and kind and…really sweet.”

Ruby’s gaze drifted to Weiss then, leaving Blake to temper a smile at the succinct description.

“It sounds like you two have a great time together,” she said before long.

“We do!”  This time, however, Ruby’s bright smile quickly faded into a furrowed brow.  “At least, I think we do?  She’s a little hard to read sometimes…I’m still trying to figure her out.”

“You and Yang both,” Blake admitted before noticing that Yang and Weiss were standing off to the side of the bar waiting for their orders.  Weiss was talking now though, and Yang hung onto every word.

“What’re they talking about…?” Blake mused.

“Probably work or something?” Ruby suggested with a shrug.

That was one of Blake’s theories, but it didn’t explain the way Weiss smiled and patted Yang’s arm in what looked an awful lot like reassurance.  Yang then hugged Weiss - was that gratitude? - before a bartender set several glasses in front of them.  The drinks ended the conversation and Blake’s opportunity to observe, as they picked up a glass in each hand and headed back across the room.

The duo turned heads in their impeccable outfits, looking every bit as radiant and eye-catching as one would expect from two A-list celebrities.  Several guests - including a tall, flawless young woman who must be another model - stopped Yang and Weiss to exchange warm smiles and greetings.

“Yang’s always the center of attention,” Ruby commented with a little laugh and shake of her head.  “Did you know she was voted ‘most likely to become famous’ in high school?”

“Was she really?”  When Ruby nodded, Blake turned back to Yang and received an apologetic smile for the delay.  “Well, they hit that one on the head.”

“Sure did!  Weiss, on the other hand…”

“‘Most likely to succeed?’” Blake suggested while she and Ruby watched the reserved singer offer little more than muted smiles or fleeting words to those who approached.

“That, or ‘most reluctantly successful,’” Ruby replied.  When Weiss’ gaze landed on her, she beamed and waved - a big, enthusiastic wave that looked abnormal from someone wearing a fortune’s worth of diamonds.  But Weiss smiled at the gesture, and her gaze hardly strayed from Ruby as Yang wrapped up the conversation and finally closed the distance between them.

“Water for the most stunning woman here,” Yang said, passing the glass into Blake’s hand and pressing a kiss to her cheek.  “Sorry that took so long.”

“It’s fine.  I already knew you were popular.”  Blake glanced at Ruby, who had accepted her water from Weiss and took a giant gulp.  “Apparently, you were ‘most likely to become famous,’ too.”

“Ruby told you?” Yang asked, a big smile appearing when Blake nodded.  “Pretty sure I only got that because ‘most likely to meet the love of her life by hiding in a restroom’ was too long.”

Blake chuckled at the memory before focusing more on the glass in Yang’s hand.  “What’d you get?” she asked, motioning to it.

“Strawberry sunrise.  Want to try?”

When Yang offered her glass, Blake took a sip before returning it with a hum.  “That’s good,” she added while Yang took a sip of her own.  “Maybe I’ll get one later.”

“Just one?  How about several?”

“You want to get me drunk?”  When Yang waggled her brow, Blake shook her head and added, “I guess water’s fine.”

Yang pouted at that response, so Blake softly patted her cheek before tuning in to Weiss and Ruby’s conversation.

“So…what’re we supposed to do now?” Ruby asked, swirling what remained of her water around in her glass.

“Drink, mingle, check out the things up for auction.”  Yang pointed at the rows of tables garnering more and more attention as the room filled with guests.  Ruby glanced that way and scrunched her nose before turning away and suddenly brightening.

“Pyrrha!”

The rest of them hardly turned around before Ruby rushed past them and launched herself at Pyrrha for a hug.  Pyrrha staggered backward before catching her balance and laughing as she returned the exuberant embrace.

“Is that really Ruby Rose?” she asked, setting her hands on Ruby’s shoulders and taking a good look at Ruby’s outfit.  “It looks like you…but the Ruby I know never dresses up.”

“Right??”  While Ruby blushed at Pyrrha’s compliment, Yang walked over and beamed at her.  “But you should more often.  You look like a superstar.”

“You really do,” Pyrrha agreed.

“You guys…” Ruby whined while the two beauties fretted over her dress and hair.  Only after Ruby had earned the royal treatment did Pyrrha smile at the rest of them.

“Thank you so much for coming,” she said, hugging Weiss before Yang and finally Blake.

“Thank you for inviting us,” Blake replied while Yang returned to her side and picked up her hand.

“Yeah, Pyrrha.  We’re here to support you.”

Yang grinned and winked at Blake, but Pyrrha’s brow furrowed.  When no one explained the reason for the emphasis, however, she shook her head and brushed past it.

“Sorry I’m late.  Some streets were closed for construction and -”  Pyrrha paused and waved the rest of the explanation away.  “It was an ordeal,” she concluded.

“Well your dress made it through just fine.”

Yang motioned to Pyrrha’s brilliant red dress that almost perfectly matched her hair.  Emerald earrings matched her eyes, and several understated yet classy silver bracelets clinked lightly whenever she moved her left hand.  While Weiss and Yang were also effortlessly beautiful in their finest attire, Pyrrha possessed an inherent poise and gracefulness that neither quite matched.

“It was touch and go for a minute there,” she replied with a relaxed smile before motioning to the glasses in their hands.  “It looks like you already found the bar though.  Sorry, there’s no food.”

Pyrrha’s apology seemed directed more to Ruby than anyone else, but Ruby beamed and said, “Don’t worry!  We ate dinner before getting ready, and there were cookies in the limo!”

Blake and Pyrrha’s gazes moved to Weiss in unison - both realizing how unusual it must be for Weiss to travel anywhere with cookies within arm’s reach - but Yang chuckled and patted Ruby’s shoulder.

“So you’re good for another…hour?”

“Hour and a half, maybe,” Ruby agreed before giggling to herself, earning Weiss’ smile while Blake and Pyrrha shared a knowing look.

“Is there anything we can help you with?” Blake asked Pyrrha while those two shared a moment.

“Just enjoy yourselves.  Your presence is more than enough.”

“Makes you look good, right?” Yang jumped in.

“It certainly doesn’t make me look bad,” Pyrrha replied with a light laugh.  “You should see some of the items up for auction though.  They’re…quite something.”

Blake’s intrigue rose at the remark, but Weiss beat her to any action by turning to Ruby and asking, “Want to take a look?”

“Of course!”

Without a second thought, Ruby grabbed Weiss’ hand and led her across the room.  Blake’s brow rose at the offhand affection, and she confirmed that Pyrrha noticed it too before both of them checked Yang’s reaction.  Yang tilted her head and watched the pair go, but her attention caught on something else in no time.

“Oh, hey, Jaune’s here!”  Yang pointed out the lanky young man to Blake - he wore a dashing black tuxedo with red accents tonight - before freezing.  “Wait.  Is Nora coming?”

“Nora had another commitment this evening,” Pyrrha replied without a drop of sarcasm, but Yang blew a breath through her lips and wiped the back of her hand across her brow.

“Don’t know if I’m mentally prepared for that,” she added before laughing.  “That reminds me though…I need to talk to Jaune about something.  I’ll be right back?”

Yang turned to Blake for confirmation that her absence was alright, but Pyrrha looped an arm through Blake’s and said, “Don’t worry.  I’ll keep Blake company.”

Blake nodded that Yang was free to go, so Yang chuckled at Pyrrha’s tease before frowning.

“Hold on a second…why are you so eager for me to leave?”  Yang narrowed her eyes at Pyrrha before turning that perceptive gaze on Blake.  “What’re you two up to…?”

“We just have some catching up to do,” Pyrrha replied, adding another nonchalant wave of her hand to dispel any suspicion.  Blake considered adding her own assurance but clammed up the moment she opened her mouth, knowing that any response might only raise Yang’s suspicion.

“Alright…”  Yang’s gaze lingered on Blake for a little longer before she smiled and backed away.  “That gives Jaune and me the chance to catch up, too.”

Blake’s eyes widened at that response, but Yang winked before crossing the room alone.

“She’s bluffing,” Pyrrha claimed, waving off the playful remark.

“Is she…?”

Blake watched Yang greet Jaune with a big smile and a hug.  After exchanging pleasantries, however, Yang leaned closer and said something that garnered Jaune’s curiosity.  Blake, meanwhile, oscillated between knowing that Yang was teasing about discussing something with Jaune and knowing that Yang could be telling the truth.  First Weiss, now Jaune?  If Yang was actually up to something, what did she need those two for?

Rather than dive into those questions, Blake shook her head and returned her attention to Pyrrha.

“Thanks again for inviting us.”

“Thanks for coming.  I’m sure you could’ve found better evening plans.”

“But it’s nice to dress up and go out sometimes,” Blake admitted as that other reality faded further away.  “Besides, I’m pretty sure Yang’s dragging you to things like this all the time.”

“Not as much anymore,” Pyrrha replied before nudging Blake’s shoulder.  “I have you to thank for that.”

Blake chuckled at the unintended benefit from her near-constant presence with Yang and let her gaze return to the other couple currently occupying her thoughts.  Weiss and Ruby might not be a couple on paper, but most people would be fooled by the ease with which they moved around each other and the subtle but undeniable spark between them.

Weiss showed it through attentiveness that didn’t stray to anyone outside of Ruby.  Ruby held her gaze.  Ruby held her attention.  Even as several people approached, desiring a few seconds with the renowned singer, Weiss all but shooed them away with short responses and obvious disinterest in the conversation.

“Weiss is…popular,” Blake commented as another young man attempted to capture Weiss’ attention.

“It comes with being at the top of her field,” Pyrrha replied, watching the young man give up and walk away after only a few seconds.  “Shying away from the public hasn’t helped either.”

Blake nodded at the explanation and noted its irony.  Weiss didn’t want attention but, by avoiding it, gained even more.  She only wanted one person’s attention though, which she made clear by ignoring or dismissing everyone in the vicinity whenever Ruby spoke.  The way her gaze remained on Ruby could only be described as ‘doting,’ but Ruby returned the infatuation in spades.

“Aren’t they adorable?” Pyrrha asked while she and Blake watched the interaction.

“Ridiculously cute.”  Blake smiled at Weiss and Ruby before glancing at Yang, who was still absorbed in her conversation with Jaune, before lowering her voice.  “I didn’t realize you invited them.”

“I invited Weiss, then suggested she invite Ruby.”  Pyrrha thought about that memory and smiled.  “It didn’t take much convincing.”

“Almost as if she wants to spend time with Ruby…”

“Almost,” Pyrrha agreed before the two of them shared a laugh.  “I can’t believe Ruby let Weiss dress her though.  Yang’s been trying to do that for years.”

“The things we’ll do for someone we like…”

“Absolutely.”  Pyrrha watched Weiss and Ruby for a moment longer before glancing in Yang’s direction.  Even now, Yang looked at Ruby and arched a brow at what she saw.  “Yang probably won’t stay in the dark much longer…” Pyrrha mused as Blake drew the same conclusion: Yang might be days rather than weeks away from finding out.

“Weiss should say something sooner rather than later.”

“Somehow, I doubt she’s ready to do that.”

“Then…we encourage her as much as we can.  Hopefully, the more time she spends with Ruby, the more she accepts her feelings.”

“Or maybe Ruby will spill first.”

“Maybe…”  Blake squinted her eyes and observed the pair so lost in each other that they might as well be the only ones in the room.  Ruby seemed far more likely to bring up the topic than Weiss, especially since Yang was her sister, but…  “Yang would really appreciate it if Weiss said something,” Blake concluded.

Pyrrha hummed in agreement as the two of them returned to their silent observation.  Blake’s gaze strayed to Yang before long though, finding Yang and Jaune deep in conversation with a dashing young couple.  Blake couldn't quite place them, but she did recognize the tall brunette standing nearby, nonchalantly staring while absentmindedly talking to several other models.

“Do you know Melissa?” Blake asked, nodding at the girl before turning to Pyrrha.  Pyrrha’s brow briefly frowned before realization dawned in her emerald eyes.

“I do.  She’s…”  Pyrrha scrunched up her nose before waving off whatever she meant to say.  “Do you?”

“She introduced herself when we got here.”

“Oh…”  Pyrrha’s gaze flitted across the room before returning to Blake steeped in apology.  “I’m sorry.  I should have warned you.  She has a…well, I guess you could call it a crush on Yang.  Don’t worry though - it’s more of a high school infatuation than anything.”

Blake nodded and gave Melissa one last look before writing her off as just another member of Yang’s fan club.

“I can say something to her,” Pyrrha offered, but Blake quickly shook her head.

“It’s fine.  It doesn’t bother me.  It just comes with the territory.”

“Unfortunately,” Pyrrha agreed while Yang and Jaune finally parted from the couple.  “But she loves you more than anything.”

When Yang’s gaze instantly sought out Blake’s and a smile appeared soon after, Blake felt the truth behind that statement.  She also noticed the way Jaune’s gaze found Pyrrha’s, and the way his goofy little grin made Pyrrha smile, but didn’t point out that Jaune clearly felt the same.  She watched Yang return to her instead, and took Yang’s hand the moment she was within reach.

“There are a lot of important people here,” Yang said while Jaune kissed Pyrrha’s cheek and handed her the glass he’d carried with him.  “We were just talking to the president of one of the studios - he’s a cool guy.”

“And his wife is nice,” Jaune added before nodding to Blake.  “Hey, Blake.  Glad you could make it.”

“Wouldn’t miss it.”  Hearing Yang’s scoff, Blake rolled her eyes and added, “Ok, I might have missed it, but I’m glad I’m here.”

“That’s more like it,” Yang hummed, kissing Blake’s cheek before pulling away with a grin.  “We’re glad you’re here, too.”

Blake could have melted into those delighted lilac eyes, but Pyrrha pulled her attention away by standing tall and fixing her gaze on the ballroom’s entrance.

“Speaking of important people…” she began.  “That’s the head of my agency.  I should say hello.”

“Take your time,” Jaune said, accepting her glass so that she could walk over empty-handed.  All eyes seemed to follow Pyrrha as she walked, and more than a few guests outright stared before sharing whispers with their companions.  Pyrrha looked unruffled by the scrutiny and attention though, likely just as accustomed to it as Yang seemed to be.

“So…” Blake began, coyly smiling at Yang and Jaune.  “What’d you two have to talk about?”

She expected to be met by confusion on Jaune’s part only to be taken aback when he immediately avoided her gaze and rubbed the back of his neck.  “Just, uh, work stuff.”

“You know, Nora’s antics,” Yang added when Blake turned to her for a clearer explanation.

Now, Blake knew that something was going on.  Before she could pry Jaune for details though - because he seemed likely to spill at any second - one of the nearby women, whose tall, slender figure and perfect strawberry blonde hair practically shouted her occupation, approached them.

“She looks like trouble…” Yang muttered to Blake when it became obvious she was approaching Jaune rather than the rest of them.  She made that abundantly clear by casting Yang and Blake a sideways glance, almost as if sizing up whether they would stand in her way, before beaming at Jaune.

“Hi Jaune.”  Her gaze roved up and down Jaune’s suit as she inched closer.  “Wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

“Oh, yeah, you know - Pyrrha asked me to come.  Got me the suit and everything, too.”

He held up his arms and chuckled, but she glanced in Pyrrha’s direction before moving even closer.

“This is a sexy fit on you,” she said while trailing her fingers down his sleeve.  “Oh, have you been working out?”

When the girl stopped and squeezed Jaune’s biceps, Yang visibly tensed.

“Ok, I’m about to punch this girl,” she grumbled when the girl held onto Jaune’s arm for far too long.  Before Yang followed through on that threat though, Blake squeezed her hand to prevent her from moving.

“Let him deal with it…” Blake whispered as Jaune took a hasty step backward.  He then chuckled and ran a hand through his short blonde hair, which easily fell back into place.

“I guess so.  Not more than usual though.  So - pretty much the same.  What about you?”

The model’s eyes sparkled with delight at the awkward response - which, admittedly, reminded Blake of when she and Yang started dating in terms of adorableness.  “About the same, too,” she replied before a laugh slipped through her lips.

Jaune chuckled along as if he didn’t know what else to do other than agree with someone else’s entertainment.  Then he glanced to the side and, upon finding his red-headed beauty walking back to him, brightened like the sun.

“Done already?” he asked, completely dropping the prior conversation as he kissed Pyrrha’s cheek and returned her drink to her.

“Just said hello and enhanced some pleasantries.”  Pyrrha sipped her drink before glancing at the young woman behind Jaune.  “You look pretty, Tiffany.”

“You do, too, Pyrrha.  Same as always,” Tiffany replied with a drop of resentment in her tone.  Jaune glanced between them before turning away from Tiffany - his eyes for Pyrrha only.  With her window of opportunity - if one could even call it that - officially closed, she said, “Well, it was nice seeing you, Jaune,” and walked away without waiting for a response.

“Yeah, buh-bye,” Yang muttered while Blake tried to shush her.  Fortunately, Tiffany breezed out of their life just as quickly as she’d breezed in, leaving Jaune none-the-wiser about how thoroughly he’d foiled her intentions.

“Pyrrha, what’s up with all these models?” Yang asked though, drawing Pyrrha’s curious gaze.  “It’s like sharks in the water,” she added, waving around the ballroom as if that explained everything.  Surprisingly, it did.  Pyrrha glanced around before pursing her lips and shaking her head.

“Like you said…there are a lot of important people here.”

Yang grumbled something under her breath about gold diggers and homewreckers, but Blake squeezed her hand and smiled once that lilac gaze refocused on her.  She knew that Yang was protective of Pyrrha and Pyrrha’s happiness - so much so that getting into a heated exchange with a model over Jaune didn’t sound unlikely.  She adored the protective nature though, although it made her wonder if Yang behaved the same way about her.

“Want to see what they’re auctioning?” she suggested instead, motioning to the tables lining the periphery of the room.  Yang cheered up at the idea, her smile returning to full power and her eyes lighting with excitement.

“You know it,” she replied before glancing at Pyrrha and receiving a wave to embark on the experience for themselves.  Pyrrha moved closer to Jaune, looking content to stay in his company while the ‘sharks’ swam nearby, so Yang and Blake made their way over to the first table set up on one side of the room.

“Can you believe she hit on Jaune right in front of Pyrrha?” Yang asked, shooting a glare at Tiffany’s back as they passed.

“I can, actually,” Blake said, chuckling at Yang’s consternation.  “They don’t have anything to lose.  And if anyone calls them out on it, they’re ‘just being friendly.’”

“Why are women so complicated,” Yang groaned, tilting her head back and sighing for dramatic effect.  Once Blake laughed at the melodrama, she beamed and motioned her free hand to the table.  “Let’s see if they have anything on our shopping list?”

“Somehow, I doubt they will…”

The entire cloth-covered table was devoted to one particular item up for auction - a beautiful diamond bracelet - along with a placard listing details about the bracelet and an estimated value, an accompanying box labeled ‘bids,’ several pens, and a notepad requesting certain pieces of information in order to submit a bid.

“Well, not on my list,” Blake mused while leaning closer.  The bracelet was locked in an acrylic display, for good reason considering the estimated value, but still sparkled under the chandeliers.  “It’s gorgeous though,” she concluded.

“Yeah?”  Yang looked between the bracelet and Blake before asking, “Should I be buying this for you?”

“That’s not how a silent auction works,” Blake replied with a soft laugh.

“It is if you put down a big number.”

Blake glanced at Yang, checking the sincerity behind the joke, before making sure they had a sliver of privacy and lowering her voice to say, “If you’re doing anything for me tonight, it’ll be when we get home.”

“I like the sound of that…” Yang replied, her eyes sparking with fire to match.  “I can put my healed ribs to the test.”

“Please don’t remind me,” Blake sighed while trailing after Yang to the next table.  Yang squeezed her hand, which she interpreted as a silent apology for the fraught emotions that period in their life entailed, before pausing at the next item.

“Concert tickets,” Blake read from the placard.  “I’ve never heard of them though.”

“Me neither,” Yang replied before glancing around the ballroom.  “Think Weiss will ever do concerts again?  I want to go to one of hers.”

“If we can even get tickets…don’t they sell out in minutes?”

“Yeah, but - we know her?  Shouldn’t we have the inside scoop or something?”

Blake chuckled at Yang’s miffed response while searching for Weiss in the crowd.  She was easy to find - sitting at one of the tables now, still engrossed in conversation with Ruby.  It wasn’t her typical one-sided conversation either.  She participated as fully as Ruby, and Ruby hung onto every word as if it might hold the secret to the universe.

“I’m sure we could ask…” Blake mused, tearing her gaze away and following Yang further along the line of eclectic and interesting items.

Pyrrha was right that they were exciting to simply think or dream about.  There was fine art, helicopter flying lessons, spa packages…even a small, non-speaking role in an upcoming movie.  A group of models had crowded around that particular table, and they all laughed when Yang joked about buying it for herself.

“A role without lines might actually be fun,” Yang commented as they left the delighted models behind.  “I’d just show up, go to wardrobe, and stand around quietly all day.”

“Are you even capable of that?” Blake joked, earning Yang’s laughter as they reached one of the final tables.

“You’re right.  I’d be gossiping with the cast and crew all day.”  While Blake smiled and shook her head at the honesty, Yang motioned their joined hands to a picturesque image of a white sandy beach.  “Look at this - a two-week stay at one of those swanky island resorts.  They have a private beach, snorkeling, scuba diving, even a swim-up bar??”

“Sounds like a honeymoon.”

“It…does,” Yang agreed, her eyes flitting to Blake.  “Is that…something you’d like?”

“For a honeymoon?”

“For…anything, really.  But also a honeymoon?”

While Yang intently waited for an answer, Blake abruptly realized that this was the closest they’d ever come to discussing a wedding or anything that went along with it.  It was also an opportunity to stress how ready and willing she was to make it happen.

“Is it somewhere you’d want to go?” she asked first.

“I only want you to be there.  Where we go doesn’t matter.”

Of course Yang chose the sweetest answer possible.  If Blake could marry her right then, she would.  Instead, she pursed her lips and tapped the edge of the table.

“Could I write in the mornings?”

“Absolutely.  You write all morning; I’ll sleep in or read or something.  Then we’ll spend the whole afternoon snorkeling and soaking up the sun and having waiters bring us food and drinks on silver platters.”

While all of those things sounded incredible on their own, Blake was far more interested in being there with Yang…on their honeymoon.

“Then yes.  I’d love to do that.”

“Awesome,” Yang breathed out, a brilliant smile spreading across her lips before she started bouncing on the balls of her feet.  “Then should we -?”  She motioned to the sheets of paper to submit bids on.  “Maybe we just bid on it?  Since we’re both here and…thinking about it?”

Blake hadn’t anticipated Yang to seriously consider it right now.  That made it a plausible reality, and that made her heart race.

“Well…” she stalled while her mind tried to catch up.  “It says it can be used anytime in the next three years.  Is that long enough?”

The last thing she wanted to do was rush Yang, but Yang stared at the date and bobbed her head.

“I think so.  I mean - yeah, I think so.”

“Then…maybe we should?”  Blake suddenly felt like bouncing too but gripped the edge of the table to keep herself still.  “We might not even get it anyway,” she pointed out.

“Right.  That’s right.  Someone else could win.”

“Right.”

After staring at each other for several seconds, during which Blake wished she could read Yang’s thoughts, they both chuckled nervously.

“Ok, let’s do it.”

Yang picked up the pen, so Blake slid the paper over to her and watched her fill out her contact information.  She paused at the bid amount though, biting her bottom lip and setting the tip of the pen on the paper.

“Uh…any idea how much?”

“At least that much,” Blake replied, pointing out the estimated price included with the other details.

“Right.  Then I’ll just…go a bit higher then.”

While Yang said ‘a bit higher,’ she nearly doubled the estimated value before tearing the page off of the pad and shoving it into the bid box.  “Done!” she proclaimed, hopping between her feet before motioning over her shoulder.  “Want to see what that’s all about?”

By ‘that,’ Yang meant the obvious crown jewel of the auction - a table that had drawn and held the attention of a constant array of guests for the majority of the night.  Yang and Blake joined the current onlookers but waited several moments before they scooted close enough to see the framed photograph and associated description.

“You’re kidding me,” Yang scoffed at what they found.  “It’s a yacht.  An actual yacht.”

“We put in a bid too soon,” Blake playfully mused and immediately smiled at Yang’s laughter.

“We did.  Just think…we could’ve had our honeymoon on this!”  Blake’s brow rose when Yang gestured emphatically to the photograph of the large boat, and Yang quickly started sputtering.  “I mean - hypothetically.  Like we were talking about with the resort.  Only a yacht.  Hypothetical yacht.  All just…hypothetical.”

Before Blake started counting how many times Yang fit ‘hypothetical’ into a response, Yang cleared her throat and stared at the picture.  Blake’s heart, meanwhile, swooned at the blush creeping up Yang’s cheeks and the adorable floundering that had been missing for quite some time.

“Well…I still prefer the resort,” Blake eventually said, leaning against Yang’s shoulder as a measure of reassurance.  “I don’t know much about sailing.”

“Right.  Me neither.”  Yang flashed a smile before pointing in the other direction.  “Want to sit now?”

“Yes, please.  My feet could use a break.”

“Sounds like you could use a massage when we get home,” Yang offered while they left the tables of auctionable items behind.

“That sounds heavenly…maybe after.”

“‘After,’” Yang repeated, chuckling to herself before waving to Weiss and Ruby, who had kept their commandeered table empty of other guests that entire time.  “Hey beautifuls.  Miss us?”

Weiss looked a bit like a deer caught in headlights as Yang pulled out the seat beside her, but Ruby giggled and said, “Nope!”  Yang playfully glared at Ruby, whose continued giggles helped ease the sudden tension from Weiss’ shoulders while Blake sat beside her.  Yang then claimed the seat on Blake’s other side, which she scooted close enough so that their knees rested against one another.

“What’ve you two been up to?” Yang asked, her hand finding Blake’s beneath the table.

“Just talking!”

Weiss nodded at Ruby’s response, and Blake looked at Yang knowing that it would only prompt further inquisition.  Before Yang pried for details, however, Pyrrha joined them.

“Have any of you seen Jaune?” she asked, scanning the room while slowly taking the chair beside Yang.

“Not in a bit.  Lost him?”

“He said he’d be right back…” Pyrrha mused before shaking her head and regaining a perfect smile.  “Find anything you liked?”

“Uh…”  A soft blush returned to Yang’s cheeks as she glanced at Blake, but she quickly threw on a friendly grin.  “Of course.  Don’t know where I’d put a yacht though.  Seems a little impractical to fit near our apartment.”

“Plus, the maintenance cost on those is obscene.  If you ever want to use one, you have to hire a crew to operate and clean it, someone to stock it with supplies, and the weather could always cancel all of those plans.”

The nonchalant remark drew every gaze Weiss’ way.  Upon noticing their looks, she added a confused, “What is it?”

“You have a yacht?” Blake asked.

“Oh.  My family has several.  Is that…bad?”

Weiss looked around the table before focusing on Ruby’s response.  Ruby, fortunately, emphatically shook her head and said, “Of course not!”

“Yeah, just surprising,” Yang added.  “Good to know though!  Won’t be yacht shopping anytime soon.”

Relieved, Weiss settled into an easier smile.  “I don’t recommend it,” she even added.  “Besides, if you really want to go out on one, you can just borrow one of ours.  I can handle finding the crew and everything for you.”

Blake shared a look with Yang, who waggled her brow before smiling and saying, “Thanks, Weiss.  Maybe we’ll take you up on that someday.”

“Going out on a yacht sounds fun!” Ruby piped in, her enthusiasm earning Weiss’ complete attention.

“That’s…something you’d want to do?”

“Of course!  I’ve never been on a yacht before.  A few boats, but those definitely weren’t yachts.”

Ruby chuckled at the memories and completely missed the wheels already turning in Weiss’ head.  Blake glanced over to confirm Pyrrha saw the same thing only to sit up straighter when she noticed Jaune hurrying over with two large boxes in his hands.

“Sorry that took so long.”  After setting both boxes on the table, he passed one to Yang and put the other in front of Pyrrha.  “Thought you might be hungry,” he explained while settling into his seat and opening the lid.  When Yang did the same, revealing a collection of baked goods that practically burst out of the box, Ruby squealed in delight.

“He’s a keeper, Pyrrha,” Yang said while offering the box to Ruby, and Pyrrha beamed at Jaune while he pointed out the ones he thought she would like.

On the other side of the table, Weiss watched intently as Ruby selected a giant chocolate chip muffin and chocolate chip cookie.  Whether committing the choices to memory or resolving herself to bring food next time, Blake couldn't say for sure.  ‘Both’ was likely the answer, though Weiss had little time to dwell on it before Ruby offered a bite of her muffin.

Unfortunately, Yang noticed the friendly offer.  But when she opened her mouth - a joke likely on the tip of her tongue - Blake nudged her side.  Her gaze snapped to Blake so quickly and attentively that Blake’s heart warmed.  She nodded to the box, which Yang pulled away from Ruby so that they could take a look.  Yang then leaned in while Blake did, bringing them closer as they weighed their options.

“Anything you want?” Yang asked softly, her breath dusting across Blake’s ear and sending a shiver down her spine.  The sensation was so distracting that Blake nearly missed Weiss taking the offered bite out of Ruby’s muffin then covering her mouth with one hand when several crumbs fell to the table.

“I already have everything I want,” Blake told Yang, waiting for Yang’s smile before plucking a chocolate-filled pastry from the box.  “But this is an added bonus.”

Yang beamed at the response before selecting a blueberry muffin and passing the box back to Ruby, who would finish eating any second now.

While they enjoyed their unexpected blessing of food and chatted about whatever came to mind - a fair amount of time was devoted to Yang’s recovery and Ruby’s experience dress shopping - the rest of the room settled in for the main event.  One of the announcers informed everyone that bids would be closed soon, prompting some renewed interest in the items while the majority of the crowd found seats around the room.  Several strangers chose the empty seats at their table but, much to Blake’s relief, kept to themselves after saying hello.

Before long, everyone had been seated and two announcers paraded to the front of the room.  One of them explained the mission behind the auction before inviting a representative from the charity to give an update on their accomplishments and future needs.  Once that was done, hearty gratitude was bestowed upon Pyrrha’s agency for hosting the event, and the auction results began shortly after.

Blake quickly discovered that looking at the items on display was only part of the event’s intrigue.  Even better was seeing who won those particular items and learning how much they paid.

As each winner was announced, Yang whispered a short explanation of who they were or what made them so ‘important’ - or what made them capable of affording such inflated prices.  Several movie producers, a music producer, another model who Blake recognized instantly, the owner of an advertising agency, the ‘uber rich’ boyfriend of one of the models - who won the diamond bracelet and proudly presented it to her on the spot - the list went on and on.

With each winner crowned and celebrated by the crowd, Blake’s anticipation grew and Yang’s knee jittered faster.  By the time the auctioneers moved the poster board featuring the tranquil beach scene to the front of the room, Blake’s heart threatened to beat out of her chest.  Yang, on the other hand, fell uncharacteristically silent and still.  Only when Blake squeezed her hand did she look over and offer a small smile.

“Even if we don’t win, we can still look into it later?”

“Of course,” Blake replied with what she hoped was a reassuring smile and nod.  Yang flashed another smile before looking up front and blowing a breath through her lips.

The announcers launched into their humorous introduction of the item being sold yet described it in such exquisite detail that Blake’s hope bloomed.  She could clearly visualize being there with Yang, celebrating their marriage and their promise to spend the rest of their lives together.

“Alright, alright,” one of the announcers eventually interrupted, flapping his hands while his partner accepted a notecard revealing the winner.  “Just tell me who won so I know who’s my new best friend.”

The second announcer glanced at the card before beaming and saying, “Oh, you’ll like this.”

“Who is it?” the first responded in hushed curiosity.

“You better get back in the gym if you’re going to a beach with Yang Xiao Long!”

He pointed the notecard toward their table as the crowd applauded the result.  The announcers followed up with more jokes and banter, but Blake hardly heard anything after Yang’s name.  Yang looked equally stunned before grinning and waving to the crowd.  By the time the spotlight moved away, she turned to Blake with eyes so wide that Blake couldn't help but laugh.

“We won,” she said, kissing Yang’s cheek.

“We did.”  Yang blinked before chuckling to herself.  “We did,” she repeated while Ruby waved her arms for their attention.

“You didn’t tell us you bid on something!”

“Yeah, well, it’s an auction,” Yang sputtered.  “We wanted to make Pyrrha look good.”

“Two weeks at a resort though?” Ruby asked, aiming a mischievous grin at her sister.  “Are you going to be celebrating something or going just because?”

Yang’s nervous chuckle was just as cute as the blush creeping all the way to the tips of her ears.  “Uh, I don’t really know yet,” she mumbled while Weiss and Pyrrha watched with a mixture of bemusement and interest.  Weiss’ gaze flitted to Blake’s hand, searching for a sign that celebrations were in order.

Despite lacking that official symbol, Blake kissed Yang’s cheek and said, “I’m sure we’ll have something to celebrate.”

“Yeah?”  Once Blake smiled and nodded, Yang said, “I hope so.  I mean, we always have something to celebrate as long as we have each other.”

Pyrrha and Jaune might have exchanged glances, and Ruby might have giggled before whispering something to Weiss, but Blake ignored them in favor of brushing her fingers through Yang’s hair and holding that smile a little longer.  The auction carried on without them, appointing several more winners before holding a procession for the proud new owner of an expensive yacht.

An executive producer took home the grand prize.  Blake clapped for the older gentleman wearing a black suit and a large gold watch, but her thoughts remained on Yang and what felt like a big step closer to their future.  It might not be a proposal or a ring, but she knew that Yang was planning it, and she knew her answer when the day arrived.

Anything more would wait for now, as the auction ended with a small fortune raised for charity, a warm atmosphere steeped in money and alcohol, and one of the coordinators approaching their table.

“Excuse me,” he directed to everyone before focusing on Yang.  “Miss Xiao Long, we just need you to fill out some information for your purchase.”

“Ah, sure.”  Before leaving, Yang kissed Blake’s cheek and said, “Be right back.”  The young man politely smiled and extended a hand toward the front of the ballroom, where several of the other winners had already gathered.

“I’ll come with you!” Ruby announced, popping to her feet and looping an arm through Yang’s before she got far.  “I think we have things to discuss,” she teased, renewing Yang’s blush while the two of them followed the young man through the maze of tables and guests preparing to leave.

Blake watched them go and smiled when Ruby almost immediately poked Yang’s side and gestured widely with both arms.  She only turned away when Pyrrha and Jaune also rose from their seats.

“We need to say hello to a few more people,” Pyrrha explained.  “But don’t leave without saying goodbye,” she added, looking first at Blake and then at Weiss before walking away hand-in-hand with Jaune.

Left alone with Weiss, Blake turned towards her so they could have a conversation.

“Did you have a good time?”

“It was fun,” Weiss admitted.  “Mostly due to the company though.”

Weiss motioned one hand to their nearly empty table, and Blake smiled at Weiss’ roundabout way of saying that she enjoyed spending time with them.

“I’m glad you invited Ruby.  It was great to see her here.”

“I thought it’d be nice.  She wants to be included but doesn’t want to feel like the third wheel.”

The comment held so much certainty that Blake realized Ruby must have actually admitted those feelings to Weiss.  Rather than point out that Yang or her would never object to Ruby’s company, however, Blake pinned that piece of knowledge to return to later.

“You did a great job on her outfit,” she said instead, easily finding Ruby on the other side of the room.  “She looks beautiful.”

“She does,” Weiss agreed, her gaze lingering on Ruby before falling away.  “I don’t think she’d enjoy this life though…”

Blake glanced over when a soft sigh slipped through Weiss’ lips, then sought out Yang near her sister.  Yang quickly sensed the look and responded with a warm smile that melted away any hesitation Blake had about being here.  Not only here at an event she never would have attended on her own, but at every party, gala, and awards ceremony that was practically mandatory for someone of Yang’s status.

“I didn’t think I would either,” she admitted, watching Yang joke with Ruby and one of the auctioneers while Weiss’ gaze turned to her.  “Sometimes, it’s a bit…much.  The dresses, makeup, photographers, trying to look perfect…but where you are doesn’t matter as much when you’re with someone you love.”

Blake paused and clutched her hands over her heart, which felt particularly overjoyed after the evening’s events.

“I love her, and I love my life with her,” she added simply.  “If Ruby found someone, even if they’re a part of this world with the dresses and expectations and everything else that comes with it, I’m sure she’d feel the same.”

If Ruby was anything like her sister, she wouldn't let something as simple as putting on a nice dress stop her from being with someone she loved.  Blake knew that was true, but Weiss studied her for a long time before nodding once.  She then took a deep breath and ended up smiling when Ruby caught her attention and excitedly waved her over.

“I guess she has something to show me…” she mused when Ruby pointed at something nearby.

“Go on then.”  Blake gently nudged Weiss’ elbow and waved her hands in front of her when Weiss hesitated.  “Don’t worry about me.  I’m waiting for Yang.”

Blake motioned to Yang, who seemed to be wrapping up her duties with the auction and was inching her way back.  Weiss accepted the response with another nod before standing up, taking a calming breath, and heading over to Ruby.

Her posture relaxed the closer they drew, and an effortless smile landed on her lips in no time.  Ruby took Weiss by the arm to show her something sitting on the table, and she hung onto Ruby’s every word before responding with a few of her own.  When Ruby laughed in response, leaning into Weiss’ side at the same time, her expression brightened as if she’d just accomplished the most remarkable feat in the world.

Blake understood the feeling all too well.  That was exactly how she felt when she found herself locked in one of Yang’s adoring smiles, basking in the unfiltered love and affection that followed.  Even now, Yang swept across the room in her beautiful gown, looking everything like the belle of the ball, but her gaze was reserved for Blake only.

Blake stood to greet her and was welcomed back into Yang’s arms with a gentle kiss.

“What’re you brooding about over here?” Yang asked while her hands settled on Blake’s waist.

“Just…life.”  Blake’s gaze flitted to Weiss and Ruby one last time before focusing on Yang.  “My life,” she clarified while wrapping her arms around Yang’s neck and curling her fingers into soft blonde hair.  “How I never expected to be somewhere like this, surrounded by celebrities and glamour.”

“It’s overwhelming sometimes, isn’t it?”

Yang glanced around the spectacular ballroom before locking Blake in her gorgeous lilac gaze.

“It can be…but I can’t imagine being here with anyone but you.”

The truth earned another kiss - this one longer, deeper, and sweeter than the first - before Yang rested her forehead against Blake’s.

“That means you’re glad you came with me, right?”

“Of course.”

“But tomorrow night we’re staying home in our pajamas,” Yang added resolutely.  “You can write and I’ll try not to distract you by being too beautiful.”

“Always a struggle for you,” Blake teased before adding, “But that sounds perfect.”

While Yang beamed as if a quiet night was all she wanted in the world, Blake realized that it couldn't be what she imagined for herself either.  She loved a good party.  She loved meeting new people and making new friends.  She might start tomorrow evening thinking about how she never expected to spend so much time at home, tucked into the quiet tranquility of their apartment, but hopefully she arrived at the same conclusion as Blake: that she wouldn't change a thing.

Knowing that would be the case, Blake drew Yang into another kiss.  This one was much longer but still only enough to express a fraction of her gratitude.  “Let’s go home?” she asked after pulling away and sinking back to her heels, holding Yang’s gaze all the while.  “Maybe we can start planning our trip.”

Blake consciously avoided the word ‘honeymoon,’ but Yang’s eyes searched hers until a bright smile appeared.

“Yeah, we can do that,” she agreed before her smile grew impish.  “‘After.’”

As soon as Blake laughed, Yang beamed and tugged her towards Ruby and Pyrrha so they could say their goodbyes.  Whether or not they got around to planning their trip that night - and whether or not Yang got around to proposing anytime soon - Blake knew that, whether officially married or not, they would spend the rest of their lives together.

She didn’t need a ring or a wedding to know that she’d found the one.  All she needed was the happiness her heart overflowed with whenever she thought about the blonde-haired beauty leading her on more adventures than she’d ever imagined.  The rest was just an added bonus.

Comments

Ben Lockwood

This was delightfully sappy and happy. Just what I needed after a long day! Thanks for putting a smile on my face! Also…..I like the ending, but I kinda wanna read a wedding chapter!

Lukas

I love the interactions between Weiss and Ruby. They are just too cute. I can’t wait how Yang might react when/if Weiss asks permission to ask Ruby out. On the other hand it would be incredible if Yang suddenly walked in on them making out or something. 😆